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July 2025

Happenings

You're Invited! Summer at the Schmidt

Summer at the Schmidt brings vintage glam to the garden on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the historic Schmidt House, 330 Schmidt Pl. SW, Tumwater—and we hope you'll join us!

This isn’t your average garden party. It’s a swingin’ soirée where cool cats and classy dames gather for a night of mid-century magic—all in support of local students and community history.

Expect:

• A 1950s-inspired garden party set against the stunning backdrop of the Schmidt House
• Live tunes to get your toes tappin’
• Delicious local fare and summer refreshments
• An opportunity to support the Olympia Tumwater Foundation’s college scholarship fund and the Tumwater Youth Music program

So grab your favorite hep cat, throw on your vintage best, and join us for Glam in the Garden, Giving with Heart. You’ll be making a difference while having the time of your life.

Olympia Tumwater Foundation Presents

Summer at the Schmidt

Saturday, August 9, 2025

Schmidt House, 330 Schmidt Place SW, Tumwater

5 pm — 8 pm

Silent Auction | Paddle Raise | Live Music | Celebrity Sightings | Delicious Bites and Beverages | Tickets, $125 each.

Tickets | Sponsorship Opportunities | Donations

Piano Students Take the Stage on our Steinway

On June 15, local piano teacher Carolyn Miles hosted her annual recital at the historic Schmidt House. Thirteen students performed on our resident Steinway piano—now celebrating its 100th year! What a talented group of young musicians! Thank you, Carolyn, for sharing your time and talents to inspire the next generation.

June History Talk Report: Roses in Bloom and a Packed House for Gary Ritchie

On June 5, our very own Gary Ritchie—nationally recognized rose expert—delivered an engaging talk to a full house. He shared the history of our rose garden and highlighted the many rose varieties we grow. Gary also made two of his books available for purchase. After a lively Q&A, guests enjoyed a lovely stroll through the garden, which was in peak bloom under perfect skies. A heartfelt thank-you to all of our rose garden volunteers for making it look so spectacular!

History Talks on Summer Break

Our monthly History Talks are taking a summer hiatus but will return on October 2. Stay tuned for the full lineup of speakers and topics for the 2025–2026 season—we can’t wait to share what’s in store!

Join us for a free Riverwalk Tour led by local tour guide, Don Trosper—offered twice a month from April through September! Each tour begins at 5 pm, departing from the park office at 110 Deschutes Parkway SW in Tumwater.

Upcoming Dates:

July 8 & 22

August 5 & 19

September 2 & 16

These fun, informative walks are family-friendly and open to all ages, proudly sponsored by the City of Tumwater. Come learn more about the local landscape and enjoy the beauty of the Deschutes River!

Thank you to the City of Tumwater for supporting this program.