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Lacey Night Market Returns for Its 4th Season: Bigger and Better Than Ever!
Last Friday night, the Lacey Night Market kicked off its fourth season, and it was the place to be! The Night Market continues to grow into a vibrant, family-friendly event that brings people together and supports local small businesses. What started as a simple idea has quickly become a favorite community gathering spot, offering a lively evening filled with unique vendors, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Each Night Market features a diverse mix of local artisans, makers, and food vendors — many of whom are small, locally owned businesses. Supporting these entrepreneurs is a key priority for the City, as small businesses play an essential role in strengthening our local economy and adding to the character and creativity that make Lacey special.
But what truly makes the Night Market stand out is the people. It’s the vendors sharing their craft, the families exploring together, and the neighbors reconnecting on a spring or summer evening. The event creates a space where community comes first — where conversations happen, relationships grow, and a sense of belonging is built.
We invite everyone to come out, explore, and support local — every other Friday night at the Lacey Depot Park. Whether you’re discovering a new vendor or simply enjoying time with the community, the Night Market is a great way to experience what makes Lacey more than just a place — it’s the people.
— Rick Walk
| | CITY MANAGER'S SPOTLIGHT: It's the People! | | |
Congratulations to Veronica Hand on Statewide Recognition
I’m proud to recognize Veronica Hand, the City’s Equity and Inclusion Program Manager, for her continued impact in our community.
Earlier this year, Veronica was named 2025 Partner of the Year by the Thurston County REALTORS® Association. She has now been selected as one of three finalists for the same award at the state level — an impressive honor among 27 realtor associations across Washington.
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This recognition reflects not only Veronica’s dedication but also the importance of the work she leads. Through her efforts, the inaugural Thurston County Homebuyers Expo brought together local governments, housing providers, nonprofit organizations, and industry professionals to connect community members with real tools and resources on their path to homeownership. Thanks to this collaboration, more than a dozen individuals and families have already achieved their dream of owning a home.
The next Thurston County Homebuyers Expo is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, continuing this important effort to make homeownership more accessible. (See information in Community Events section below.)
At a time when homeownership is becoming increasingly out of reach for many, this work is more important than ever. Veronica’s leadership has helped remove barriers and expand access to critical information and opportunities — ensuring more people in our community have a fair chance to succeed.
Veronica’s work is a powerful example of what can be accomplished through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to community. We are fortunate to have her on our team and grateful for the partnerships that make this work possible.
Please join me in congratulating Veronica on this well-deserved statewide recognition.
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Check out the Latest in Lacey!
In this edition:
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Ahoy, Lacey: Bush Park’s New Tugboat Playground is Now Open!
A new adventure has officially set sail at William A. Bush Park. The City is excited to announce that the brand-new tugboat-themed playground is now open for play!
Designed to spark imagination and active play, the playground invites children to climb aboard, explore, and create their own high-seas adventures right here in Lacey. From navigating the deck to setting sail on make-believe journeys, it’s a space built for fun, creativity, and community.
This project was made possible through a partnership with the Gateway Rotary Club of Thurston County and the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office, along with grant funding and community support. Local kids and families also helped shape the final design, making it truly a playground built by the community.
A ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration will be held on Wednesday, May 27, at 5:30 p.m., featuring activities, photo opportunities, and a chance to recognize the partners who helped bring the project to life. Watch for more information!
Bring your crew and stop by anytime to check out Lacey’s newest place to play!
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Supporting Fair Housing for All
The Lacey City Council proclaimed April 2026 as Fair Housing Month, recognizing the importance of equal access to housing and the right for all people to live free from discrimination.
Fair Housing Month highlights the ongoing need to ensure that everyone — regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or familial status — has access to safe and affordable housing. It also serves as a reminder of the progress made since the passage of the Fair Housing Act, and the work that still remains.
Lacey’s proclamation reflects the City’s commitment to fostering inclusive neighborhoods and supporting efforts that promote equity and opportunity for all residents. It encourages community members to learn more about fair housing rights and to help create a community where everyone feels welcome and secure in their homes.
Dawn Baker, President of the Thurston County REALTORS® Association, shared, “Fair housing is not just a policy, it’s a promise. A promise that where you live should never be determined by who you are.” She also emphasized the importance of learning from the past while continuing to expand access to homeownership through education, partnerships, and community resources.
Fair Housing Month invites all of us to consider how we can support one another and advocate for equitable access to housing. By working together, we help build a stronger, more inclusive Lacey.
Read the full proclamation here.
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Celebrating Earth Day in Lacey
The Lacey City Council proclaimed Wednesday, April 22, 2026, as Earth Day, recognizing the importance of protecting and preserving the natural environment for current and future generations.
Earth Day highlights the shared responsibility to care for our planet through stewardship, conservation, and sustainable practices. In Lacey, it’s also a time to celebrate the parks, open spaces, and natural resources that make the community a healthy and vibrant place to live.
Lacey’s proclamation reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to environmental leadership and to providing accessible outdoor spaces for all residents. It encourages community members to take part in local efforts that support a cleaner, greener future.
Heather Antanaitis, CEO of the PARC Foundation of Thurston County, shared, “We are grateful for your continued leadership in protecting and investing in our natural spaces that make the community very special.” She also highlighted the importance of partnerships that connect people to the outdoors and to one another.
Earth Day invites all of us to reflect on how we can care for the environment in our daily lives. By working together, we help protect the natural spaces that make Lacey such a special place.
Read the full proclamation here.
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Building a Greener Tomorrow
The Lacey City Council proclaimed April 2026 as Arbor Month, recognizing the importance of trees in creating healthy, vibrant, and sustainable communities.
Arbor Month highlights the many benefits of urban forests, from improving air quality and providing shade to enhancing the beauty of neighborhoods and public spaces. It also serves as a reminder of the role trees play in supporting environmental health and community well-being.
Lacey’s proclamation reflects the City’s commitment to protecting and maintaining its urban forest. It encourages community members to take part in planting, caring for, and appreciating the trees that contribute to the character and livability of the City.
Chris Vaccaro shared, “Arbor Day is a very wonderful opportunity for us to maintain and protect our urban forests, which do provide protection and beauty to all of our neighborhoods, businesses, places that all of us love to frequent.”
Arbor Month invites all of us to consider how we can care for the trees and green spaces around us. By working together, we help ensure a greener future for Lacey.
Read the full proclamation here.
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Kids Fishing Day: Reel in the Fun!
Bring the whole family to Longs Pond for a day of fishing, learning, and outdoor adventure! This hands-on event is designed for kids ages 4–14. Participants will get to cast a line, pick up fishing tips from experienced volunteers, and enjoy time in nature. Each registered child receives a rod and reel to take home!
Event Details:
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Date: Saturday, April 11
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Session Times: 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m.
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Location: Longs Pond, Woodland Creek Community Park
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Cost: $7 per participant
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Ages: 4–14
Visit the Kids Fishing Day webpage for more information and to register.
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Give Hope. Give Blood.
You can make a lifesaving difference by donating at the upcoming community blood drive at Lacey City Hall!
Donating blood is one of the quickest ways to help save lives. Within hours, donations are tested, processed, and sent to local hospitals where patients need them most. Every donation helps strengthen the local blood supply and supports patients throughout our region.
Mark your calendar and consider rolling up your sleeve to support this vital cause.
Event Details:
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Date: Thursday, April 15
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Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
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Location: Lacey City Hall, 420 College St. SE
Appointments are required - sign up for a scheduled time slot!
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Join the Earth Day Clean-Up at Woodland Creek Community Park
Celebrate Earth Day by giving back to your community and helping protect one of Lacey’s most important natural areas. The City, along with Stream Team, PARC Foundation, and the Lacey Lions Club, invites you to roll up your sleeves for a hands-on clean-up event at Woodland Creek Community Park.
This volunteer opportunity focuses on improving the health of Woodland Creek, a vital salmon-bearing stream. Participants will help remove litter and invasive plants to support the local ecosystem and keep the park beautiful for everyone.
Event Details:
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Date: Saturday, April 18
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Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
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Location: Woodland Creek Community Park
No experience is needed. Tools, gloves, and light refreshments will be provided, making it easy for anyone to participate. Whether you come on your own, with friends, or as part of a group, this is a great way to spend time outdoors while making a real impact. It’s also a great opportunity for students and volunteers looking to give back and support environmental health in Lacey.
Join your neighbors, get a little dirty, and help keep Woodland Creek thriving!
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Check out Thurston County's 2nd Annual Homebuying Expo on Saturday, April 18!
Learn about resources to help make your dream of homeownership come true. You'll find resource tables throughout the expo, and a Pathways to Homeownership Workshop will be offered from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Event Details:
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Date: Saturday, April 18
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Doors Open: 10 a.m.
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Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
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Location: Olympia Center | 222 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501
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Cost: This event is free and open to the public.
Learn more on the event website.
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Sharing Our Food Stories at the Lacey Museum
Food connects us to our memories, cultures, and each other. This April, the community is invited to explore those connections at “Sharing Our Food Stories,” an interactive oral history workshop hosted by Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation.
Participants will reflect on personal and cultural food traditions through guided prompts and discussion. You’re encouraged to bring an item — like a recipe, ingredient, or kitchen tool — that helps tell your story.
Event Details:
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Date: Thursday, April 23
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Time: 5:30 – 7 p.m.
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Location: Lacey Museum, 4160 6th Ave. SE, Suite 101 (Bell Towne Center)
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Cost: Free (registration required)
Space is limited, so be sure to sign up early.
This workshop is offered alongside the Stories of Food, Food as Story exhibit and provides a meaningful way to connect with others through shared experiences.
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Thurston Forward DEIB Summit Returns to Lacey
Community members from across Thurston County are invited to the Thurston Forward DEIB Summit, a two-day event focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
This year’s summit begins with a Connection and Networking Experience on Friday, followed by a full day of workshops, storytelling, and collaborative learning on Saturday. Participants will explore ways to build stronger, more inclusive communities while connecting with others who are passionate about creating positive change.
The event is designed for anyone who lives, works, or learns in the area and wants to be part of meaningful conversations and community-driven action.
Event Details:
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Dates: Friday, May 1 | 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. & Saturday, May 2 | 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
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Location: South Puget Sound Community College Lacey Campus
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Cost: Free
Whether you attend one day or both, the Thurston Forward DEIB Summit offers a chance to listen, learn, and help shape a more inclusive future for our community. Register now!
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SBA Loans Available for Flood Damage Recovery
Support is available for individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations affected by recent flooding through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan program.
These low-interest loans are intended to help with recovery costs that may not be fully covered by insurance or other assistance. Funding can be used for things like repairing or replacing damaged homes and property, restoring business operations, and addressing other flood-related losses.
Eligibility varies depending on the type of applicant and extent of damage, and both homeowners and renters may qualify, along with businesses of all sizes and eligible nonprofit organizations.
For full details on eligibility, loan uses, deadlines, and how to apply, visit the SBA Loans webpage.
We encourage those impacted to review the information as soon as possible to understand available options and next steps in the recovery process.
| Nisqually Tribe Invites Community Members to Volunteer for the Canoe Journey 2026, Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlatch | |
The Nisqually Tribe has participated in the annual Canoe Journeys since 1994, using the event to strengthen its culture, community, and families. Historical cultural practices, from carving techniques to gifting ceremonies, and cedar weaving to regalia making, have been revived and rediscovered, while songs have resurfaced to be shared at Journey's end.
Take part in this historical event by volunteering from July 31 to August 6. You can select the areas (meals, transportation, culture, etc.), days, and times that work best for you.
Visit the Nisqually Tribe's website to learn more.
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April 7 Meeting Recap
The Lacey City Council took the following actions at the April 7, 2026, Council meeting:
- Approved the following meeting minutes:
- March 10, 2026, Worksession meeting
- March 17, 2026, Council meeting
- Approved claims, wages, and transfers for February 26 through March 27, 2026.
- Approved Resolution No. 1180 amending the City’s investment policy.
- Awarded Lacey Contract Number PW 2024-16 to the low bidder Raudenbush Earthworks, LLC.
- Authorized the City Manager to enter into an interlocal agreement with Intercity Transit for the Smart Corridor project.
For more details on the City Council, visit their webpage.
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City Council Worksession
Tuesday, April 14 at 6 p.m.
Historical Commission Meeting
Wednesday, April 8 at 6 p.m.
Lacey Library Board
Thursday, April 16 at 5:30 p.m.
Rescheduled: Joint Animal Services Commission
Monday, April 20 at 5:30 p.m.
For details on how to participate in our Public Meetings, visit our webpage.
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Now Hiring
The City is recruiting for the following positions:
If you have any questions about these positions, contact the Human Resources Department. To learn more and apply for any of our current openings, visit our recruitment webpage.
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City of Lacey
420 College Street SE
Lacey, WA 98503
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Call: 360-491-3214
Visit: CityofLacey.org
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