Capital Lakefair

Every year Capital Lakefair features a wide array of activities that appeal to visitors of all ages. Below is a list of some of the many great activities that are available. Entry to the park is always free, as are many of the events listed.

Carnival: July 15-16, 2026 (Noon-10pm), July 17-18 (Noon-11pm) and July 19 (Noon-Midnight)
Experience the thrill and excitement of the Funtastic Traveling Shows Carnival! There are a wide array of rides and games for all age groups. There will be no wristbands available this year, either by online pre-sale or during the event in July. Tickets are available on-site only.

Parade: Saturday, July 18, 2026 @ 5pm
The Lakefair Grand Parade is one of the largest in the region, and features entries of all kinds. The event kicks off with pre-parade festivities at 4:45pm to get the crowd warmed up, and leads into the main event at 5pm. The parade route begins along Capitol Way at 20th and continues down to 5th Ave ending near the bridge.

​Fireworks: Sunday, July 19, 2026 @ 10:15pm
Come enjoy this community favorite on the final day of Lakefair​ Week! The Grand Finale Fireworks display takes place over Capitol Lake in Olympia, and can be viewed from Heritage Park, Deschutes Pkwy, Capitol Campus or anywhere with a view of the lake.

Food concessions: July 15-19, 2026 @ Noon-11pm
Every year over a dozen concessionaires line Water Street with a variety of dining options as part of Lakefair Week. These groups are primarily local non-profit organizations, who use sales from the festival as a major source of funding for their annual operations. Eat up, and stay posted for a list of vendors at this years event!

Craft vendor booths: July 15-19, 2026 @ Noon-9pm
The vendor booths at Lakefair feature a blend of unique and interesting items created by local artists and craftspeople, as well as a variety of popular commercial items.

Car show: Friday, July 17, 2026 @ 5:00-8:30pm

Join this annual favorite along Capitol Lake at Marathon Park! Rides of all kinds are represented with categories recognizing custom and vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles.

The show begins at Marathon Park and continues north along Deschutes Pkwy toward Heritage Park. Foot traffic is open for the event and free to attend, vehicle access is blocked at 5th Ave and restricted to show vehicles only from the south.

Main Stage Entertainment, July 15-19, 2026 @ Noon-10pm
The main stage at Lakefair runs all week with admission-free live performances from a variety of local, regional and national groups.

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