Explore A New Trail or Enjoy Some Costal Cuisine

Chef brings coastal cuisine to historic state park building

Gate-Belmore Trail Opens, Connecting Thurston County Communities

The Gate-Belmore Trail is now open in Thurston County, inviting walkers, bikers, and runners to explore a thoughtfully restored route.

Converted from a historic railroad, the trail’s first 2.7 miles link Olympia’s Mima Road SW to prairies near the Glacial Heritage Preserve, with plans to extend it 14.5 miles through wetlands and forests toward Littlerock.

This project enhances local recreation and forms a critical link in connecting more than 50 miles of regional trails.

Care was taken to remove invasive plants, restore native grasses and wildflowers, and protect habitats for pollinators and rare species like the Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly.

Wildlife—from bluebirds to alligator lizards—has returned, and construction was carefully timed to minimize ecological impact.

Future expansions will include a bridge over the Black River, further weaving natural and local history into Thurston County’s outdoor network.

Tumwater Artesian Brewfest

Saturday, August 16
1 PM to 8 PM
Tumwater Valley Golf Course, Tumwater, WA
Ticket prices vary - click here for details!
Sample craft beers from over 40 regional breweries, complete with live music and games. A great adult-focused event with festive vibes.

Early American Heritage Festival 2025
Friday, August 15 & Saturday, August 16 - 10am - 5pm
Sunday, August 17 - 10am - 3pm
Wilkowski Park, Rochester St SE & Montana Ave N, Rainier
Free admission with a donation - Learn more here!

This annual festival is sponsored by Spirit of 76 Living History Association. Enjoy period arts and crafts, insights into the challenges of life in early America, exploration of the Pacific Northwest and the conflict that divided and ultimately united the United States of America.

Sunflower Festival at Rutledge Family Farm
Sunday, August 16
10am –4pm
Rutledge Family Farm, 302 93rd Ave SE, Olympia
Make it a fun day outdoors by wandering through acres of vibrant blooms featuring over 40 varieties of sunflowers and more than 400 dahlia plants in 15+ stunning colors. Click here for details!

Trivia Question❓

Olympia, Washington is the state capital of Washington and home to many interesting facts and landmarks. One unique fact is that the city holds an annual event where participants dress up as creepy creatures and run through the streets at night. What is the name of this eerie event in Olympia?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Upcoming Events

South Sound Block Party

August 22–23, 2025

All-day community festival

Port of Olympia waterfront

Free

Street‐festival vibes on the waterfront with food trucks, live music, artisan vendors, and family activities hosted by the Port of Olympia.
Get a preview here!

Olympia Harbor Days Festival

August 29–31, 2025

Percival Landing & Downtown Olympia waterfront

Free

Olympia’s marquee maritime festival—boarding vintage tugboats, deck tours, tugboat races, tall ships, sand sculpting, LEGO harbor builds, music and food. Educational, interactive, and perfect for kids of all ages.
Learn more here!

Weather Outlook

Pet of the Week

Meet Bo: A 3 years old German Shepherd
who's equal parts regal and ridiculous

Bo has a gift for brightening your day...he's friendly, playful, and ready to bring endless joy into your life.

What else is on his resume?

Bo is smart and always eager to learn new tricks, especially if there's a snack involved. He also takes his tug-of-war duties very seriously, but don't be fooled-he'll flash you a goofy grin mid-game just to make you laugh.

Make some memories with Bo
Set up a meet and greet with Joint Animal Services.
Call: 360-352-2510
ID# 59023710
Click here for more details!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

The event is called the "Olympia Halloween Run" and is a tradition that combines fitness with spooky fun every October.