Time to Prepare For Holiday Gatherings and Travel!

Olympia makes celebrating Thanksgiving simple and delicious, thanks to an array of local dining and takeout choices for every style and budget.

Budd Bay Café hosts a lavish buffet spotlighting seafood delights like wasabi-soy-glazed salmon, plus prime rib, ham, turkey, and classic sides, all available for dine-in by reservation.

Simply Organic Café & Catering offers meal kits with turkey, classic fixings, and decadent desserts, ready for pre-order and pickup on Thanksgiving Day in Tenino.

Uptown Grill and Flaming Pig BBQ provide easy take-home feasts, with roasted or smoked turkey and all the trimmings, while Ranch House BBQ & Steakhouse features whole smoked turkeys and full holiday spreads.

The Lovely and Dapper Bakery, Dough Zone Dumplings, and O'Blarney's Irish Pub supply unique treats, dine-in, or after-party options, making it easy to celebrate any way you wish.

Community dinners and local farm shopping round out Olympia’s festive offerings, ensuring everyone can enjoy a special holiday meal.

Thanksgiving travel in Washington state is set to bring increased traffic on Interstate 5, Interstate 90, and US Highway 2.

According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the busiest times on I-5 between Lacey and Tacoma are expected from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Monday.

For a quicker drive, plan to travel early morning or late evening.

On I-90 from North Bend to Cle Elum, peak congestion will likely occur between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., while US 2 at Stevens Pass faces heavy traffic mid-mornings to afternoons on Friday and Saturday.

Outside these windows, roads should be more manageable.

Rainy weather in Seattle is forecasted, so prepare for slick roads and possible delays.

Check travel charts and real-time updates to help ensure a more relaxed, flexible holiday journey.

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Secret Little 🍂 Fall Hack

Visit the Olympia Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious food from local vendors.

It's a hidden gem in the city that's worth checking out.

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Why did the scarecrow win an award in Olympia, WA?

Because he was outstanding in his field!