Lacey Parks Events

Arbor Day Celebration

Mother & Son Dance

Presented By:

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS:

Enjoy an evening of dancing, games, and crafts while creating memories! We will be serving pizza and light refreshments (and of course, popcorn!) so you don’t have to worry about grabbing dinner on your way!

Lacey’s Cultural Celebration

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS:

Lacey’s Cultural Celebration is a festival designed to share our culture and heritage with our neighbors through dance, art, music, food, and stories. The annual event has been held in Lacey since 2011 drawing families from all over Thurston County and beyond to explore and shop from our vendors and learn about our great sponsors.

Destination: Gwinwood!

On the southwestern shore of Hicks Lake, a camp and conference center retains the name Gwinwood from its resort glory days. Join our Museum Curator, Erin Quinn Valcho, to find out about the tragedy and triumph of its namesake Gwin Hicks, discover their most famous visitor and learn how the site came to be owned by the Western Washington Christian Churches.

Arbor Day Seedling Giveaway – POSTPONED to 4/16

Earth Day

Mount St. Helens at 42: Anatomy of a Disaster

The explosive eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980, remains a vivid memory for many people in the Pacific Northwest. But the human history of that day is less well known. Author Steve Olson, whose book Eruption: The Untold Story of Mount St. Helens won the Washington State Book Award, re-creates the events of that calm and sunny Sunday morning with photographs, maps, and the unforgettable stories of the people who experienced the greatest volcanic eruption in U.S. history.

Summer Program Registration Begins!

Summer 2022 programs open for online and over-the-phone registration. Don’t forget to view our Playbook for a list of our Summer programs!

Lacey Depot & Playground Grand Opening Event!

Come enjoy a short program and local food trucks while we celebrate the long awaited grand opening of the Lacey Depot and Playground!

Comprehensive Plan Open House

Play In the Parks – We Care Sports

Celebrate the differences & commonalities of many cultures through the games people play. Travel the world & discover that smiles are the same in any language! Attendees will be introduced to the games and then have a chance to play them so come dressed to play!

Play In the Parks – MC Shoehorn

MC Shoehorn is a performance artist who creates music with his feet and dances with his horn, combining body rhythms and sophisticated forms and concepts into an entertaining spectacle. A specialist in sax and tap dance, he is also a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, arranger and composer.

Children’s Entertainment Series – Henrik Bothe

Mix the gentle humor of Victor Borge, the physical agility of Seinfeld’s Kramer, and the cross-generational appeal of Charlie Chaplin and you have some idea of what Henrik Bothe brings to the stage. He brings audiences to their feet while sharing with them the most powerful of gifts – laughter.

Concert Series – Full Metal Racket

The 133d Washington Army National Guard Band presents its rock-inspired ensemble, Full Metal Racket, featuring a variety of today’s hits and classic rock tunes. The band performs for service members and civilians alike, traveling all over the state of Washington, representing the incredible Service Men and Women of the Washington National Guard to the great people of Washington State.

Children’s Entertainment Series – Louie Foxx

Audiences across the USA love Louie Foxx’s One-Man Side Show and you will too! Howie Mandel called Louie’s performance on NBC’s America’s Got Talent “Fantastic” and the International Brotherhood of Magicians said Louie is “Incredible”.

The One-Man Side Show is full of unique magic tricks and skills. Whether making the audience gasp in disbelief as he wraps his head in duct tape to play a game of 20 questions, or making the audience roll with laughter as he tries to cut a banana in half with a bullwhip you can rest assured this is a show unlike any other!

Concert Series – Mariachi Mexico

This exciting ensemble brings you the hear and soul of Mexico. Their wide repertoire of regional Mexican music include classic rancheras to Veracruzan huapangos. Romantic boleros to lively polkas, beautiful waltz’s and much more.
You’ll experience diverse and traditional instruments including guitar, trumpet, guitarrón and accordion coupled with authentic vocals performed in Mariachi style. The group’s founder and music director, Bobby Medina, is originally from East LA and performs on Trumpet and accordion and adds background vocals. Guitarist/lead vocalist Juan Carlos Cadena is originally from Reynosa, Tamaulipas Mexico. Juan Manuel Barco is originally from Coal Mine, TX and performs on guitarrón and vocals. Mario Hernandez comes from Veracruz, Mexico and performs on guitar and vocals.

Play In the Parks – Creature Teachers

Presented By:

The weird and wonderful world of wild animals!  Come learn about reptiles, amphibians, and other creepy crawlies.  We love the ‘unlovable’ animals maligned by society.  We will talk about care and conservation of animals and have a chance to pet and touch the animal ambassadors.

Concerts & Movies at Dusk – Cherry Cherry & The Sandlot

6:00pm Join us for dinner & snacks before the show with: Chick-fil-A, County Line wood-fired pizza, Kona Ice of Olympia, Sunshine Scoop, The Old Red Barn Popping Co, Lava Bowlz, and Cinco de Mayo Fruits & More!

Cherry Cherry  – Neil Diamond’s music is timeless and ageless. His classic songs evoke memories that every crowd will enjoy. Cherry Cherry will entertain audiences young and old alike.

The Sandlot (PG) – Scotty Smalls moves to a new neighborhood with his mom and stepdad, and wants to learn to play baseball. Rodriguez, the neighborhood baseball guru, takes Smalls under his wing – soon he becomes part of the local baseball buddies. They fall into adventures involving baseball, treehouse sleep-ins, the desirous lifeguard at the local pool, the snooty rival ball team, and the travelling fair. Beyond the fence at the back of the sandlot menaces a legendary ball-eating dog called The Beast, and the kids inevitably must deal with him.

Children’s Entertainment Series – Cap’n ARRR

“The Misadventures of Cap’n Arrr!” is an interactive comedy performance that will have kids (and grown-ups) rolling on the floor! Cap’n Arrr’s program is packed full of audience participation and includes basic instruction in walking like a pirate, talking like a pirate and laughing like a pirate too!

Concert Series – Ranger & the Re-arrangers

Ranger and the “Re-Arrangers” evoke the spirit of a Paris café and the raucous energy of a Romani campsite with their version of Hot Club Swing. “At the heart of their sound is Ranger Sciacca’s sweet violin playing… his sense of melody and daring improvisations” (World Rhythm). The band’s repertoire includes swing standards, traditional European melodies, the music of Django Reinhardt, and Ranger’s unique originals.

Play In the Parks – Brian Vogan & His Good Buddies Band

Presented By:

Brian Vogan is a Seattle based early childhood music educator with fifteen years of experience sharing his love of music with the children of the Pacific Northwest. Brian’s group the Good Buddies provide nimble and clever arrangements for songs about dinosaurs, dump trucks, and sharing the love with one and all! Don’t miss this fabulous dance party of musical mayhem and good ol’ fashioned fun.

Concerts & Movies at Dusk – Olson Bros Band & Jungle Cruise

6:00pm Join us for dinner & snacks before the show with: Chick-fil-A, Sunshine Scoop, The Old Red Barn Popping Co, Lava Bowlz, and Cinco de Mayo Fruits & More!

The Olson Bros Band  – The Olson Bros Band originated in Olympia, WA and is led by singer/songwriters and brothers Luke and Isaac Olson. In 2019, they finished out the year with opening gigs for Dwight Yoakam, Dylan Scott, Lonestar, and Phil Vassar. They also put out their 4th studio album in 2021 called “I Bleed Evergreen” which showcases the brother’s harmonies and lyric writing.  The Song “By and By” has received international attention with the line dance for the song spreading across many countries in Europe and Latin America.

Jungle Cruise (PG-13) – Dreaming about saving countless lives and having another adventure, the feisty English feminist and doctor of botany, Dr Lily Houghton, embarks on a peril-laden mission to change the world. Along with her fashionable brother, MacGregor, Dr Houghton enlists the help of the arrogant, wisecracking riverboat skipper, Captain Frank Wolff, to guide them through the serpentine Amazon River in La Quila, his swift wooden boat. Now, as the intrepid trio ventures deeper and deeper into the heart of an impenetrable green maze, searching for something that cannot be found, a centuries-old curse and the ruthless aristocrat, Prince Joachim, threaten to put an end to their ambitious plans. And, sooner or later, the jungle always wins. Is it true that the Spanish conquistador, Don Aguirre, was lost in the same God-forsaken part of the world?

Children’s Entertainment Series – Brian Waite Band

The Brian Waite Band was born from the idea of creating live rock shows that thrill both parents and children alike. Founded in 2001 by Brian Waite (guitar), Todd Gray (drums), and Clif Swiggett (bass), the trio began touring the West Coast, and before they knew it, their music was being played all over the world. Twenty-one years and eight, critically-acclaimed albums later, their interactive shows have evolved into more than just children’s concerts. The Brian Waite Band’s live shows combine musical theater, imaginative storytelling, laughs and a great rock ‘n roll concert filled with original songs that take the whole family on a “Rock ‘n Roll Adventure”.

Concert Series – Platinum Soul

Platinum Soul has the ability to generate the excitement and enthusiasm that will have every crowd on its feet and dancing to the beat. Our band consists of seasoned musicians, who put on a show that is often imitated, but rarely duplicated by other musical groups. Whenever Platinum Soul takes the stage, there is never any question as to where the party is!

Concerts & Movies at Dusk – Nate Botsford Band & Sing 2

6:00pm Join us for dinner & snacks before the show with: Chick-fil-A, County Line wood-fired pizza, Kona Ice of Olympia, Sunshine Scoop, The Old Red Barn Popping Co, Lava Bowlz, and Cinco de Mayo Fruits & More!

Nate Botsford Band  – Popular Northwest based artist Nate Botsford’s country rock hybrid style is a lifetime in the making. Nate began playing piano when he was only five, but the Taylor acoustic guitar given to him by his dad at age 14 became the instrument that has accompanied him everywhere and helped to lay the foundation for his musical career. That career has seen up to 300 shows a year for the last five years: from coffeehouses to mainstages, Nate has pleased audiences with his feel-good tunes and relatable lyrics. Nate has shared the stage with the likes of Old Dominion, Brett Young, Chris Janson, LoCash, Lonestar and many others and calls upon his influences of Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, and his big-band pianist grandfather while crafting his music.

Sing 2 (PG) – With his theatrical company a local success, Buster Moon is dreaming of bigger things. Unfortunately, when a talent scout dismisses their work as inadequate for the big time, Buster is driven to prove her wrong. With that goal in mind, Buster inspires his players to gamble everything to sneak into a talent audition in Redshore City for the demanding entertainment mogul Jimmy Crystal. Against the odds, they catch his interest with some frantic creative improvisation and even more desperate lies like personally knowing the reclusive rock star, Clay Calloway, who has not been seen in 15 years. Now faced with a tight production window with only a vague story idea and dire consequences for failure, Buster and his friends must all stretch their talents put on a show against all odds. In that struggle, the gang’s challenges seem insurmountable, but each of them finds new inspirations and friends where they least expect them to pursue an artistic dream worthy of them.

Children’s Entertainment Series – Ruth & Emilia

Emilia and her alien friend, URR, from the planet Goopda, reunite to have some summer fun while making the world a better place. URR learns a few safety lessons along the way! Kids and families will love to sing and dance along to the catchy tunes with positive messages performed by this Parent’s Choice Award and Mom’s Choice Gold award-winning mother/daughter duo.

Concert Series – Cosmo’s Dream

Americana trio Cosmo’s Dream sings original tales of foggy-mountain megamalls, trailer-park guns and guitars, big black cats, Iditarod sled dogs, rising rivers, grandmas online, dark days ahead, beautiful beer, and Superman’s dilemma. This Tacoma-based trio, which features Gen Obata on flat-pick guitar and mandolin, Steve Nebel on guitar, and Kristi Nebel on bass, blends acoustic musicianship with solo vocals and dynamic three-part harmonies. The trio toured from Tacoma to St. Louis in February 2016 with the first Cosmo’s Dream CD, Big Sky Blues, and toured the United Kingdom in August 2016.

Concerts & Movies at Dusk – Culture Shock & Encanto

6:00pm Join us for dinner & snacks before the show with: Chick-fil-A, County Line wood-fired pizza, Kona Ice of Olympia, Sunshine Scoop, The Old Red Barn Popping Co, Lava Bowlz, and Cinco de Mayo Fruits & More!

Culture Shock  – Jump onboard and experience the rich and lively sounds of Latin America with this family friendly show. Culture Shock performs an extensive repertoire of Latin American favorites music from such foreign countries as Brazil, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, and more… Be prepared to experience Samba, Mambo, Tango, Bolero, Cha-Cha-Cha, Cumbia, and other exotic dance rhythms. You’ll experience diverse and traditional instruments including guitar, trumpet, bass, keyboards, and accordion coupled with authentic vocals. The group’s founder and music director, Bobby Medina, performs on trumpet, keyboards, and accordion. Juan Carlos Cadena performs on guitar and lead vocals. Juan Manuel Barco performs on bass and vocals. Mario Hernandez performs on guitar and vocals and Junior Medina rounds out the band performing on traditional percussion instruments from Latin America.

Encanto (PG) – Encanto tells the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia, in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal-every child except one, Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope.

Children’s Entertainment Series – Angel Ocasio

A very funny and wacky show that brings a comedy twist to juggling, object balancing, and magic tricks. This show is filled with silly antics, audience participation, music and lots of laughs. A wonderful show suited for family audiences.

Concert Series – Slainte

Slainte is a high energy Irish Rock Band. They play a mix of contemporary and traditional Irish/Scottish songs and artists like Flogging Mully, Cranberries, Franz Ferdinand, Dropkick Murphy, Young Dubliners, Van Morrison, Thin Lizzy and more!

Play In the Parks – Parrot Ambassadors

Presented By:

Parrots make great conversation starters! Their beauty, intelligence and inspiration build a great community connection! We bring 5-6 parrots who love performing all kinds of unique behaviors from flying to roller skating to talking and more!

Play In the Parks – S.T.E.A.M. Museum

Presented By:

This hands-on education experience truly has something for everyone! From building an arch to programming a robot to 3D printing, exploring gravity, friction, and math with STEAM pinball, creating your own music with the Music Maker, and much more, there is so much to try! Designed for k-6 students.

Virtual Ruddell Pioneer Cemetery Tour

We are proud to present, in partnership with Pretty Gritty Tours, a virtual tour of the Ruddell Pioneer Cemetery in Lacey and the stories that led to its founding. Get to know the triumphs, lives, and tragedies that led to this historic cemetery being one of the most notable in Western Washington. This FREE hour long tour will help you know the background and incredible stories of some of the most amazing pioneer women buried here.

This event will be livestreamed on YouTube, but will also be available as a recording immediately following the event.

Fall Registration Begins!

Greg Cuoio Park Phase 1A Open House

Join us on September 28 at 6PM to review the Phase 1A plan! We want to hear your thoughts and get your feedback on this first phase of construction for the long-anticipated Greg Cuoio Park. Come see a presentation on the upcoming park features, talk with Park staff, and let us know your questions, thoughts, and concerns for this project.

Edward Lange: An Early Artist in Thurston County

See how art and history combine to tell the story of Edward Lange, an artist who worked in Thurston County at the turn of the 19^th/20^th centuries. Born in Germany in 1846, Lange came to Long Island, New York in 1870 and moved to Olympia, Washington in 1889. For the next twenty-three years he created highly detailed drawings of farms, businesses and entire communities in Thurston County (and elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest). Lange died in 1912, but many examples of his amazing artwork still exist. They provide wonderful windows through which we can see the history of our area. In this illustrated presentation speaker Drew Crooks will include recently discovered images as well as new information.

Children’s Day Presented By Chick-Fil-A Lacey

Presented By:

Join us for a great day of FREE, kid-friendly fun! Over 50 booths filled with games, activities, arts & crafts, entertainment, inflatables and more! Food vendors will be on-site.

Theme: GO WILD! Dress in your best jungle, adventure or animal attire! Event is held rain or shine.

Jackson-Goose Pond Marker Dedication

Scoundrels: The Life of Susie Lewis

Location: Lacey City Hall Council Chambers and Online

Over a century ago, Tumwater resident Susie Lewis suffered a chain of tragedies: abuse, broken homes, infidelity, murder, abandonment, divorce, a child’s death, a fatal disease. And her misfortunes continued even after she died. Curator Karen Johnson presents an illustrated true-crime talk about Susie’s life and loves, including the scoundrels who hounded her to an early grave.

The Pig War: Great Britain vs. The United States

Location: Lacey City Hall Council Chambers and Online

In 1859, the United States and Great Britain stood on the brink of war for the third time in less than a century, and it all started over the shooting of a wayward pig that had uprooted a neighboring farmer’s potatoes. For 12 years, the US Army and the Royal Navy faced off on San Juan Island in Washington Territory, daring each other to make the first move. The cast of characters involved in this saga is a veritable who’s who of 19th century historical celebrity. Washington state historian Erich R. Ebel recounts the story of The Pig War, otherwise known as The Bloodless War or The War That Wasn’t.

Signing Santa

Presented By:

The Signing Santa program, presented by the Signing Santa Organization and Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation, brings children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families, friends, and the community together. It’s a chance for all children to gather and see the spirit of giving, seek new friends, and promote awareness of the deaf community to all.

Visit signingsanta.org for more information.

Brunch With Santa

Join us at the North Pole for a special visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus! Your family and friends will enjoy a kid-friendly breakfast buffet (for example: yogurt, muffins, fruit, cereal options, juice, hot cocoa, coffee, and more), special keepsake crafts, and even some Christmas magic! Each family will receive a digital professional photo with Santa too! (additional fee for additional poses.) Space is limited and this popular event sells out every year, so don’t wait to register. (Pre-registration is required,  No onsite registration.)

Fee: Ages 2 – adults $15 + Tax (Under 2 free—must be registered and provide own high chair if needed.

Register online or call 360-491-0857.

SESSION l                   9 – 10 am

SESSION 11               11 am – noon

Excavating the Bush Homestead

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online.

Recent excavations of the Bush Homestead, site of early non-white settlers George and Isabella Bush, led by Dr. Ulrike Krotscheck, Professor at The Evergreen State College, uncovered evidence of the Bushes’ generosity. Come hear how it also renewed community interest in the Bush family, leading to the dedication of new monuments in the area.

Winter/Spring 2023 Program Registration Opens

“It’s the Water”: A Brief History of the Olympia Brewing Company

During the 1970s, the Olympia Brewing Company was ranked the 6th-largest brewer in the nation. It was the largest private employer in Thurston County for decades, and its influence has permeated the community for well over a century. Olympia Tumwater Foundation Assistant Director Megan Ockerman presents an illustrated history of the brewery, the people who ran it, and its place as a pop culture icon.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only.

Revealing Records in the Washington State Archives

Learn tips and tricks for using the State and Southwest Regional Archives located in Olympia. Whether you are searching for your family history, property records, or looking for photos, maps, or clippings, this informative and illustrated talk will provide valuable insight on accessing and utilizing the state and local collections.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only.

Lacey Cultural Celebration

Presented By:

Sponsored by:

Savor the sights and sounds of the world without leaving Lacey!  Share the heritage and cultures of our community at the Cultural Celebration. This year will be bigger than ever as we bring the world to you.  Enjoy music and dance presentations by local and regional performing arts groups.  Learn about various world traditions through demonstrations and displays.  Sample the flavors and art of the world with our diverse food and craft vendors. Bring the kids for hands-on crafts!  This is an event designed for the whole family.

In cooperation with:

City of Lacey, North Thurston Public Schools, Lacey Collision, Nisqually Tribe, 94.5 Roxy, Saint Martin’s University

Germans in the South Puget Sound Region in the late 19th Century

After the Civil War, quite a few young men from the Prussian region of Germany made their way to the South Puget Sound, lured by expectations of prosperity—jobs, free land—and religious and social freedoms. This talk focuses on the life and death of one, Friedrich Richter, who for a time owned property on the east bank of the Nisqually Delta, land that one day would become part of the Braget Family Farm.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only.

A History of the Northwest Passage in Five Maps

Using a series of rarely seen historic maps drawn from the collection of the Washington State Library and the Washington State Historical Society, Dave Nicandri will discuss the evolution of the Northwest Passage as a cartographic concept.  The principle figures in this story are British explorers James Cook, his one-time midshipman George Vancouver, Montreal-based fur trader Alexander Mackenzie, and Lewis & Clark.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only.

Family Fish-In

The fish are jumping at Longs Pond! This event encourages fishing as a family activity and includes on-site volunteers to help teach fishing basics to kids 4-14. Pre-registration is required for this event, cost is $5 and includes a rod & reel to keep!

Summer Program Registration Opens

Lacey Historical Society 1980-2023

Historical Societies form in a variety of ways. Come and learn about the Lacey Historical Society and their legacy.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only.

Lacey Spring Fun Fair

The Lacey Spring Fun Fair is one of the largest 2-day festivals in Western Washington! Join us for free rides, kids activities, live entertainment, and more! Plus, shop from over 74 vendors and enjoy the car show on Sunday.
May 20-21, 2023.

Lacey Spring Fun Fair

The Lacey Spring Fun Fair is one of the largest 2-day festivals in Western Washington! Join us for free rides, kids activities, live entertainment, and more! Plus, shop from over 74 vendors and enjoy the car show on Sunday.
May 20-21, 2023.

June Weathervane Craft

Did you know that Lacey was once a small farming community? Ever wonder what those metal roosters were doing atop farmhouses? During the month of June join us at the Lacey Museum for a crafting activity to learn about weathervanes and some history about Lacey farms!

Drop in during regular business hours, Thu-Fri 11 am – 3 pm, and Sat 10 am – 4 pm to build your own weathervane.

FREE!

National Trails Day

Since 1993, National Trails Day® has grown to inspire people to celebrate on the same day nationwide. People all across the country volunteer on the first Saturday of June to celebrate National Trails Day.

Make Your Own Biplane!

We’re flying into July in style with our custom biplanes! Join us at the museum to build and design your own biplane while we share some stories about local aviation history.

Drop in during regular business hours, Thu-Fri 11 am – 3 pm, and Sat 10 am – 4 pm to build your own biplane.

FREE!

Lacey Fireworks Spectacular

Presented By:

Fireworks Sponsors:

For over 50 years, Lacey has celebrated the holiday a day early with Fireworks, Food, Music, and Fun!

Noon Concert – WA National Guard Band: Full Metal Racket

Sponsored By:

Need a break during your lunch hour? Head to Huntamer Park Wednesdays at noon for the Lacey In Tune summer concert series! From July 5 to Aug 9, enjoy the fresh air and relax while listening to amazing artists.

Come to Huntamer Park July 5th to see the Washington National Guard Band Full Metal Racket!

Play in the Parks – Japan Creative Arts

Join us at various parks in Lacey for FREE family entertainment this summer! From July 6 to August 10, venture out to different parks and enjoy free shows and activities with your family.

July 6th come to Wonderwood Park to see Japan Creative Arts perform a Taiko drum show!

Children’s Entertainment – The Not-Its!

Sponsored By:

Starting July 11 & running through August 15, Tuesdays will be full of entertainment the entire family will love! Shows start at 6:30pm, giving you plenty of time to grab some blankets or chairs and head to Huntamer Park.

Come to Huntamer Park July 11th to rock out with The Not-Its!

Noon Concert – Dmitri Matheny Group: The Brazil Project

Sponsored By:

Need a break during your lunch hour? Head to Huntamer Park Wednesdays at noon for the Lacey In Tune summer concert series! From July 5 to Aug 9, enjoy the fresh air and relax while listening to amazing artists.

Come to Huntamer Park July 12th to see The Brazil Project, bossa nova and beyond with Dmitri Matheny!

Play in the Parks – Wings Aerial Acrobatics & Circus

Join us at various parks in Lacey for FREE family entertainment this summer! From July 6 to August 10, venture out to different parks and enjoy free shows and activities with your family.

July 13th come to Rainier Vista Park to see Wings perform aerial acrobatics and a circus show!

Concerts & Movies – Heart By Heart featuring Steve Fossen & Michael DeRosier of Heart & The Princess Bride

Sponsored By:

If you are looking for an inexpensive date night or family night, come to Lacey in Tune Friday Nights! July 14 to August 4 at Huntamer Park, concerts start at 7pm then settle in for a movie at dusk. Don’t forget to grab dinner or a treat from one of our amazing food vendors on site beginning at 6pm!

July 14th features Heart by Heart and The Princess Bride!

Children’s Entertainment – Creature Teachers

Sponsored By:

Starting July 11 & running through August 15, Tuesdays will be full of entertainment the entire family will love! Shows start at 6:30pm, giving you plenty of time to grab some blankets or chairs and head to Huntamer Park.

Come and learn about the weird and wonderful world of wild animals with Creature Teachers on July 18th!

Noon Concert – Soul Searching Band

Sponsored By:

Need a break during your lunch hour? Head to Huntamer Park Wednesdays at noon for the Lacey In Tune summer concert series! From July 5 to Aug 9, enjoy the fresh air and relax while listening to amazing artists.

Come to Huntamer Park July 19th to see Soul Searching Band, a King & Queen(s) Tribute and Aretha & Elvis Tribute band!

Play in the Parks – Dreamland Ponies Petting Zoo

Join us at various parks in Lacey for FREE family entertainment this summer! From July 6 to August 10, venture out to different parks and enjoy free shows and activities with your family.

July 20th come to Woodland Creek Park and learn about different animals with Dreamland Ponies Petting Zoo!

Concerts & Movies – Credence Revelation & Minions: The Rise of Gru

Sponsored By:

If you are looking for an inexpensive date night or family night, come to Lacey in Tune Friday Nights! July 14 to August 4 at Huntamer Park, concerts start at 7pm then settle in for a movie at dusk. Don’t forget to grab dinner or a treat from one of our amazing food vendors on site beginning at 6pm!

July 21st features Credence Revelation and Minions: The Rise of Gru!

Children’s Entertainment – Talewise Science Show

Sponsored By:

Starting July 11 & running through August 15, Tuesdays will be full of entertainment the entire family will love! Shows start at 6:30pm, giving you plenty of time to grab some blankets or chairs and head to Huntamer Park.

Science and stories collide as you work together to save the earth with Talewise on July 25th!

Noon Concert – Zydeco Low Down

Sponsored By:

Need a break during your lunch hour? Head to Huntamer Park Wednesdays at noon for the Lacey In Tune summer concert series! From July 5 to Aug 9, enjoy the fresh air and relax while listening to amazing artists.

Come to Huntamer Park July 26th to see Zydeco Low Down play traditional Zydeco music from Southwest Louisiana.!

Concerts & Movies – Olson Bros Band & Top Gun: Maverick

Sponsored By:

If you are looking for an inexpensive date night or family night, come to Lacey in Tune Friday Nights! July 14 to August 4 at Huntamer Park, concerts start at 7pm then settle in for a movie at dusk. Don’t forget to grab dinner or a treat from one of our amazing food vendors on site beginning at 6pm!

July 28th features The Olson Bros Band and Top Gun: Maverick!

Children’s Entertainment – Angel Ocasio

Sponsored By:

Starting July 11 & running through August 15, Tuesdays will be full of entertainment the entire family will love! Shows start at 6:30pm, giving you plenty of time to grab some blankets or chairs and head to Huntamer Park.

Laugh with Angel Ocasio’s comedy show August 1st!

Noon Concert – Good Company

Sponsored By:

Need a break during your lunch hour? Head to Huntamer Park Wednesdays at noon for the Lacey In Tune summer concert series! From July 5 to Aug 9, enjoy the fresh air and relax while listening to amazing artists.

Come to Huntamer Park August 2nd for the funk, pop, and electro swing stylings of Good Company!

Play in the Parks – Border Collies International

Join us at various parks in Lacey for FREE family entertainment this summer! From July 6 to August 10, venture out to different parks and enjoy free shows and activities with your family.

August 3rd come to Meridian Neighborhood Park and see the amazing performing dogs of Border Collies International!

Make Your Own Covered Wagon!

We’re building wagons and hitting the road! Join us at the museum to build a covered wagon and play our Road to Lacey game to learn some history about the Oregon Trail.

Drop in Fri 11 am – 3 pm and Sat 10 am – 4 pm during the month of August for this FREE activity!

Concerts & Movies – Catch a Wave & Moana

Sponsored By:

If you are looking for an inexpensive date night or family night, come to Lacey in Tune Friday Nights! July 14 to August 4 at Huntamer Park, concerts start at 7pm then settle in for a movie at dusk. Don’t forget to grab dinner or a treat from one of our amazing food vendors on site beginning at 6pm!

August 4th features Catch a Wave and Moana!

Children’s Entertainment – Brian Vogan & His Good Buddies Band

Sponsored By:

Starting July 11 & running through August 15, Tuesdays will be full of entertainment the entire family will love! Shows start at 6:30pm, giving you plenty of time to grab some blankets or chairs and head to Huntamer Park.

Come to Huntamer Park August 8th and check out Brian Vogan & His Good Buddies Band!

Noon Concert – Slim Wizzy

Sponsored By:

Need a break during your lunch hour? Head to Huntamer Park Wednesdays at noon for the Lacey In Tune summer concert series! From July 5 to Aug 9, enjoy the fresh air and relax while listening to amazing artists.

Come to Huntamer Park August 9th to check out Slim Wizzy perform some blues anthem rock!

Play in the Parks – Eric Ode

Join us at various parks in Lacey for FREE family entertainment this summer! From July 6 to August 10, venture out to different parks and enjoy free shows and activities with your family.

August 10th come to Lacey Depot Park and sing along with award-winning children’s singer/songwriter Eric Ode!

Children’s Entertainment – Brian Ledbetter

Sponsored By:

Starting July 11 & running through August 15, Tuesdays will be full of entertainment the entire family will love! Shows start at 6:30pm, giving you plenty of time to grab some blankets or chairs and head to Huntamer Park.

Go on a grand adventure with Brian Ledbetter’s magic show August 15th!

Fall Registration Opens

A History of the Lacey Fire Department – Their First Decade

Learn about the service club origins of the Lacey Fire Department and the work of many of its citizens to provide 24 hour-a-day fire and medical protection to Lacey and Thurston County.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only.

Creativity Corner

October crafts at the Lacey Museum!

Craft your own creepy creatures, then choose what story you’ll build for your creations. Are you creating myths and legends, or a scary story? It’s up to you!

Drop in Saturdays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. during the month of October for this free activity!

FREE!

Children’s Day

Sponsored by:

Join us for a great day of FREE, kid-friendly fun! Enjoy booths filled with games, activities, arts & crafts, entertainment, inflatables and more! Food vendors will be on-site.

Theme: BUGS!

Event is held rain or shine.

40 Years of Wolf Rescue, Recovery, and Advocacy

Join Wolf Haven’s Executive Director, Geoff Willard, for a deep dive on the history of the organization and the work they continue to do to conserve and protect wolves and their habitat.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only. Doors open at 6 p.m.

A Confluence of Conservation: A History of the Nisqually Delta and the US Fish and Wildlife Service

The Nisqually Delta is a landscape that embraces time, change, and continuity.  Two different cultures clashed here, yet connected to hold a space for wildness.  Explore some of the storylines that converge in today’s national wildlife refuge.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only.

Signing Santa

Presented By:

The Signing Santa program, presented by the Signing Santa Organization and Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation, brings children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families, friends, and the community together. It’s a chance for all children to gather and see the spirit of giving, seek new friends, and promote awareness of the deaf community to all.

Visit signingsanta.org for more information.

Lacey Lighted Parade & Christmas Tree Lighting

Presented By:

Join the fun as we light up Lacey!  Don’t miss the Lacey Lighted Parade of Vehicles as it travels down Sleater-Kinney, 7^th Ave SE, and past Huntamer Park!  Follow the parade to the park and join us for the Annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree’ and all of Huntamer Park in an old-fashioned ceremony where Santa is the guest of honor!  Families are invited to visit with Santa and take photos while enjoying the lights.
The parade starts at 6:30pm and the lighting of the park will follow.
After the lighting and through December, visit Huntamer Park to enjoy the lights and tune in on your car radio to hear holiday music by local students and hear Santa read a story!

2024 Winter/Spring Registration Begins

Registration opens at 9 a.m.

Want to plan ahead? You will be able to view new programs and classes the last week of November.

Breakfast with Santa & Buddy

Join us at the North Pole for a special visit with Santa & Buddy the Elf! Your family and friends will enjoy a kid-friendly breakfast buffet (for example: yogurt, muffins, fruit, cereal options, juice, hot cocoa, coffee, and more), special keepsake crafts, and even some Christmas magic! Each family will receive a digital professional photo with Santa too! (additional fee for additional poses.) Space is limited and this popular event sells out every year, so don’t wait to register. (Pre-registration is required,  No onsite registration.)

Fee: Ages 2 – adults $15 + Tax (Under 2 free—must be registered and provide own high chair if needed.

SOLD OUT for 2023.

William Fraser Tolmie: A Remarkable Hudson’s Bay Company Leader at Fort Nisqually in the Mid-19th Century

Join Drew Crooks as he shares the history of William Fraser Tolmie (1812-1886), a Hudson’s Bay Company official who left behind a strong legacy that even now is remembered in the region.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

Inside the Lacey City Council of the 1970s

In 1973, Lacey was in its early years as a City and defining moments were taking place. Karen Fraser became the first woman City Council member, and three years later would become the first woman to serve as Mayor. This talk will explore her experiences navigating her roles through a young city, its changing form of government, the building of City Hall, and the formation of the Lacey Museum.

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

Lacey Loves To Read 2024 Author: Donna Barba Higuera

Presented By:

Lacey Loves to Read is a community reading initiative designed to encourage our area students to become lifelong readers and learners. Activities include a district-wide bookmark creation contest, short story writing events, and more. A notable children’s author visits each year to share insights on writing and reading and foster a culture of reading in our school community.

Find Your Family History in the Washington State Archives

Ever wanted to learn more about your family history but had no idea how to get started or where to go for information? Join Dr. Jewell Lorenz Dunn as she shares the basics on what you need to begin your family tree research. Genealogy is much more than just online census records. Learn what the Washington State Archives has to help you in your search and where else you can find vital information. 

Hybrid Format: Come in person to Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers or join online. Registration required for online attendance only. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

Lacey Cultural Celebration

Presented By:

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS:

Savor the sights and sounds of the world without leaving Lacey!  Share the heritage and cultures of our community at the Cultural Celebration. This year will be bigger than ever as we bring the world to you.  Enjoy music and dance presentations by local and regional performing arts groups.  Learn about various world traditions through demonstrations and displays.  Sample the flavors and art of the world with our diverse food and craft vendors. Bring the kids for hands-on crafts!  This is an event designed for the whole family.

Lacey Spring Fun Fair

Since 1988, the Lacey Spring Fun Fair has provided FREE activities and entertainment for thousands. Join us at Saint Martin’s University on May 18 from 10 am – 6 pm and May 19 from 11 am – 5 pm for tons of FREE fun! Enjoy rides, games, live entertainment, and Kids’ World activities, plus plenty of food, artisan & commercial vendors, and more!

Lacey in Tune

Lacey in Tune (LIT) returns to Huntamer Park this summer with a full line up of great entertainment. Whether you’re looking for inexpensive, family-friendly events, or need a fun date-night idea, Lacey in Tune is the place to be! Join us Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Fridays at Huntamer Park for FREE family-friendly entertainment! Bring a chair or blanket, grab some grub from one of our food vendors, and enjoy the show. 2024 DATES TBD