Summer may be coming to an end, but Capital Mall has some great events planned that will give you an excuse to get outside while supporting the local community and small businesses. Dazzle with giant dahlias at the Dahlia Show on September 14th and 15th, 2024. Then support local women-owned businesses at the Thurston County Economic Development Council's WCWB INSPIRE Pop-up Market on Friday, September 20th. And don't forget, there are free Zumba Gold classes every Monday. Here are some fun events happening at Capital Mall to make this a September to remember.
Dahlia Show at Capital Mall 2024
Macy's Court at the Capital Mall will be filled with gorgeous dahlias for the annual Dahlia Show. The show is a decades-old mall tradition that is free for mall visitors to enjoy. Local dahlia growers, from beginners to experts, will participate in the flower show and have their best flowers judged. “They will bring their best flowers to show in different levels of competition,” said Hope Montag, marketing and business development manager at the Capital Mall.
While the judges are professionals, the competition also features a public prize so you can vote for your favorite dahlia flower. Plus, growers will be happy to answer any dahlia questions you may have, including growing tips and the different varieties that will be on display throughout the weekend.
WCWB INSPIRE Pop-up Market
The Thurston County Economic Development Council (EDC) will host its second annual WCWB INSPIRE Pop-Up Market on Friday, September 20, 2024 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Last year's event was held at South Puget Sound Community College's Lacey campus. “WCWB tries to change up our location each year if possible, so we decided to hold it at the Mall this year,” said Ashley Whitley, Program Manager for Thurston County EDC. “This gives us the opportunity to promote in a new environment. The Mall is also great for the fall when people are shopping for back to school and the holidays.”
“Being a professional woman myself, I'm really excited about this event,” Montag said. “This is exactly the type of event we want to have at the mall, and we want to support small businesses in any way we can.”
Vendors at the WCWB INSPIRE Pop-Up Market must be at least 51% women-owned and have a valid business license to participate. Because the purpose of the event is to give a boost to these businesses, the Thurston County Economic Development Council covers the costs. “We pay for their venue and a professional photographer to take photos of the event and individuals,” Whitley explains. “We then provide these photos to the businesses at no charge for them to use for marketing purposes. We cover the cost of all marketing and marketing materials to promote the event, and both boards try to bring people to the event and support these businesses with as few obstacles as possible.”
At the pop-up market, you'll find all kinds of products perfect for pampering yourself or getting a head start on your holiday plans. There are many handmade items, including jewelry, hair accessories, cards, wallets, and clothing. There are services, too. If you're looking for a new accountant, home care person, masseuse, doula, lawyer, insurance agent, or yoga instructor, you've got it. You'll basically find everything at this event at Capital Mall. Don't miss it.
And if you're a woman-owned business, there are still a few spots available: fill out the WCWB INSPIRE Pop-Up Market Vendor Application and apply through September 15 or until capacity is reached.
Free Exercise Classes at Capital Mall in Olympia
Yes, that's right: it's free. There aren't many things these days that are free with no strings attached, but Diana Yu's fun-filled Zumba Gold class at Capital Mall is free. Yu loves sharing her Zumba skills with anyone and her enthusiasm is contagious. Zumba Gold takes place every Monday from 9am to 10am.
“It's a lot of fun,” says Sue, who attends the Monday morning class. “I love Mall Monday and I appreciate all the time and effort you all put in to make it a fun time.”
“Zumba Gold is a dance fitness program that uses Latin and global rhythms with fun and easy-to-follow choreography,” Yu says. “In 60 minutes, you'll travel the world and have a great time exercising. All of our instructors are certified to teach the Zumba Gold specialty program.”
Yu added that Zumba Gold is for everyone, even those who sit down. Not only is it fun and a good workout, but you'll also make new friends. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes and join the class at Macy's Court.
“A celebration full of energy and fun,” says Gloria, another Zumba class attendee. “Yay! I love Funday Mondays at the mall! Personalities shine through and I love the music and movement.”
Capital Mall Supports Small Businesses and Communities
Capital Mall has attracted many small, independent businesses over the past few years and continues to support local businesses and organizations. “We try to be as much of a community center and resource as we can, which is why we host these events and work with local people and do our best to make sure they are represented,” Montag said. “We try our best with everything we do. We really care about the community.”
After all the fun of summer, September can be a disappointment. Capital Mall is hosting fun events all month long to brighten your mood and get you in shape. Plus, spending money will leave a positive impact on the economy, making you feel better too. Check out the Capital Mall website for more information.
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