Mother’s Day Guide 2025
May 6, 2025
The Olympia Downtown Alliance is thrilled to announce the return of the cherished Sylvester Park Tree Lighting.
After a several-year hiatus, this beloved holiday tradition will once again illuminate the heart of downtown Olympia at 4:30 pm on Sunday, November 30, at Sylvester Park.
This year’s celebration will sparkle brighter than ever. Historic light poles throughout the park will be wrapped in classic white lights, while the gazebo will shine with white roofline lighting and colorful handrail accents. The tree itself will be adorned in multicolored lights—creating a magical scene that welcomes the season with warmth and wonder. The Washington State Department of Enterprise Services (DES) is lighting up the park to the Alliance’s specifications.
“The return of the Sylvester Park Tree Lighting is more than a celebration—it’s a homecoming. This tradition brings families, friends, and neighbors together in the heart of our city. We’re grateful to the Department of Enterprise Services and our community partners for helping make downtown Olympia glow once again.”
Desiree Freeland, Executive Director of the Olympia Downtown Alliance.
“DES is honored to help bring this iconic event back to Sylvester Park. It reflects our shared commitment to creating welcoming public spaces and vibrant community experiences in Sylvester Park and the other four parks of the state Capitol Campus.”
Matt Jones, DES director
Join us in celebrating the return of this holiday tradition in downtown Olympia! The tree lighting will be the grand finale of LoveOly Winterfest on Sunday, November 30, from 10 am to 4 pm at the corner of 5th Avenue and Washington Street. See you there!
More About Winterfest:
LoveOly WinterFest is Olympia’s signature holiday street celebration, kicking off the season with joy, lights, and local flavor. Thanks to WSECU and other community sponsors, all activities are free and family-friendly.
WinterFest Highlights:
- Kids’ Holiday Crafts with the Hands On Children’s Museum
- Storytelling in the Olympia Ballroom Lobby (11 a.m.–12 p.m. & 1–2 p.m.)
- Hot Chocolate Station hosted by Sofie’s Scoops and Batdorf & Bronson
- Local Artisan Market featuring handcrafted holiday gifts
- Visits with Santa at 222 Market (222 Capitol Way N)
- Live Music and Entertainment on stage throughout the day
WSECU Presents: Downtown for the Holidays – Ongoing Holiday Festivities
- LoveOly Shop & Dine – Holiday Edition (Nov. 28–Dec. 24)
Collect stickers for every $10 spent downtown and redeem for special gifts. - Twinklefest (Dec. 1–Jan. 5)
Vote for your favorite holiday window display! Winner announced Jan. 6. (Formerly facilitated by PBIA.) - Snowfall at The Washington Center – Experience magical snowfall before shows.
- Nutcracker-Themed Selfie Scenes – Perfect photo ops for holiday memories.
- 12 Days of Complimentary Parking – Dec. 12–24, courtesy of the City of Olympia.
