What’s happening — Wooden Boat Festival and other festivities on Mother's Day weekend

This weekend, make your mom feel special by taking her out to a special fundraiser, concert or fair in Thurston County.

“First Stop” - South Sound Studio Tour (OLYMPIA)
May 9-June 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Childhood’s End Gallery is proud to host “First Stop,” an exhibition showcasing the range of mediums and methodologies featured on the South Sound Studio Tour.

Lantern Lights the Library: All Ages Rave (OLYMPIA)
Friday, May 9, 7-9 p.m.
This event makes local music accessible to people of all ages in a safe, fun environment. Light snacks and earplugs will be available. Come dance the night away at the library!

Ballet Northwest Presents The Sleeping Beauty (OLYMPIA)
May 8-11, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Ballet Northwest will present Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet "The Sleeping Beauty" on Mother’s Day weekend at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. Ballet Northwest’s production includes professional sets, lavish costumes, and 100 local dancers (from Thurston, Lewis, Mason, and Pierce counties).

12th annual Bob's Kids Fishing Day and Family Fun Fair (OLYMPIA)
Saturday, May 10, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Come out to the 12th annual Bob's Kids Fishing Day and Family Fun Fair at Columbus Park! There will be vendors, activities and free fishing for kids ages 4-14. Each child will get a free hot dog lunch provided by Tumwater Rotary!

Concern For Animals Plant and Gift Sale (OLYMPIA)
Saturday, May 10, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
The event proceeds go towards helping animals in need. Plants for sale include annuals, veggies, perennials, fruit trees, houseplants, hanging baskets, and more. There are also tables full of gift baskets, artisan items from local artists, specialty plants from local nurseries, and even food truck vendors.

Olympia Wooden Boat Festival (OLYMPIA)
Weekend, May 10-11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Visit the festival on Saturday, followed by an evening block party featuring incredible food and a live performance from The Olson Bros Band. Celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday with art, music, and the new paint and sip experiences — a perfect way to spend the day by the water with family and friends.

The Olympia Peace Choir's Community Concert (OLYMPIA)
Saturday, May 10, 7-8 p.m.
The Olympia Peace Choir, The Olympia Peace Singers, and Treble Voices for Peace, grateful recipients of Olympia’s Inspire Olympia Grant 2024-2025, will gather to perform their annual Community Concert, "Change is Gonna’ Come." Come hear the wonderful harmonies of large, inclusive choral groups. The concerts are free and family-friendly.