Embrace the Eclectic Spirit of Olympia, WA: Celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah with a Twist!

In the charming and eclectic city of Olympia, Washington, where creativity flows like the nearby waters of Puget Sound, celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah takes on a unique flair that perfectly mirrors the laid-back yet artistic vibe of its residents. This progressive community values diversity and inclusion, making it an ideal destination to explore different religious traditions during this festive season.

Start your holiday exploration by visiting St. John's Episcopal Church (114 20th Ave SE). This historic church not only offers traditional Christmas services but also hosts special events that highlight local artists and musicians, reflecting Olympia's deep connection to the arts scene. The beautiful stained glass windows provide a serene backdrop for contemplation as you immerse yourself in the true spirit of Christmas.

For a taste of Hanukkah celebrations in Olympia, head over to Temple Beth Hatfiloh (201 8th Ave SE). This synagogue embraces inclusivity and welcomes visitors from all backgrounds to join their Festival of Lights festivities. You'll have the opportunity to learn about Jewish customs and traditions while enjoying latkes and sufganiyot in a warm and welcoming environment that embodies Olympia's sense of community.

To truly experience nature-inspired celebrations, don't miss out on attending outdoor holiday markets such as the Downtown for The Holidays event at Sylvester Park or Artisan Crafted at Thurston County Fairgrounds. These markets showcase locally made crafts, artwork, and delicious treats that capture Olympia's commitment to supporting small businesses and fostering creativity.

As you roam through downtown Olympia adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, take time to appreciate how this quirky city seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. From street performers adding whimsy to your shopping experience at local boutiques like Hot Toddy (410 Capitol Way S) or Captain Little (121 5th Ave SE), every corner exudes a sense of joyous celebration.

In conclusion,

Websites:

- St. John's Episcopal Church: www.stjohnsoly.org

- Temple Beth Hatfiloh: www.bethhatfiloh.org

Twitter:

- St.JohnsEpiscopalOlympia - @StJohnsOlyWA

- TBHatfiloh_Olympia - @TBHatfiloh_Oly

address

114 20Th Ave Se
WA
United States

201 8Th Ave Se
WA
United States

410 Capitol Way S
WA
United States

121 5Th Ave Se
WA
United States

Geo
Images
The church house at St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington
St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington
St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington.
St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington
St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington
St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington
St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington
St. John's Episcopal Church in Olympia, Washington.
First Baptist Church in Olympia, Washington.
Washington State Grange in Olympia, Washington.
First Baptist Church in Olympia, Washington.
greyhound station, procession day
Bettman-Oppenheimer House
Address: 216 Southeast 9th Avenue Olympia, WA, 98501
DAHP Historic Property Inventory Report
Historic Property Inventory Form
Included in the Olympia Heritage Register Properties Listing through 2007
TownePlace Suites in Olympia, Washington
The former Post Office in Olympia, Washington
Bettman-Oppenheimer House
Address: 216 Southeast 9th Avenue Olympia, WA, 98501
DAHP Historic Property Inventory Report
Historic Property Inventory Form
Included in the Olympia Heritage Register Properties Listing through 2007
Closeup of bumper sticker with famous Sinclair Lewis line "When fascism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross"

This quote is often attributed to Sinclair Lewis but has not been verified. The Sinclair Lewis Society
An eclectic shop - I enjoyed it (and of course I found a book....)
"Books are a gateway drug. It starts out innocently enough, reading C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, pretty soon you are reading harder stuff like Kerouac and Burroughs, the next thing
Despite what the card says this is actually Olympia , Washington.
I believe this is looking north on Capitol Way S from 5th ave.

Much thanks to Severinus and Litlnemo for figuring this one out.
Mural in Olympia, WA
The Olympia National Bank building in Olympia, Washington
Mural in downtown Olympia, Washington.
An eclectic shop - I enjoyed it (and of course I found a book....)
"Books are a gateway drug. It starts out innocently enough, reading C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, pretty soon you are reading harder stuff like Kerouac and Burroughs, the next thing
The Mottman Building in Olympia, Washington, built in 1888 as the Olympic Block and remodeled to its current form in 1911 by architects Heath & Gove.
Issaquah Sportsmen's Club lodge, Issaquah, Washington. The building was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a King County landmark.
Fireplace, Issaquah Sportsmen's Club lodge, Issaquah, Washington. The building was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a King County landmark.
Issaquah Sportsmen's Club lodge, Issaquah, Washington. The building was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a King County landmark.
Interior, Issaquah Sportsmen's Club lodge, Issaquah, Washington. The building was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a King County landmark.
Issaquah Sportsmen's Club lodge, Issaquah, Washington. The building was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a King County landmark.
Issaquah, United States
Interior, Issaquah Sportsmen's Club lodge, Issaquah, Washington. The building was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a King County landmark.
The Reverent Crimont and fellow priests after his consecration as the first Bishop of Alaska, taken July 1917 by Frank Nowell. Outside the main (west) doors of St. James Cathedral, Seattle, Washington, U.S. Crimont would have been bishop of the