Procession of the Species

The procession features a parade of costumed individuals and groups, non-motorized floats, and puppets with animal and element themes.

Started in 1995 by a group of Olympia residents, the procession was originally created to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Earth Day and to support Congressional renewal of the Endangered Species Act.

[citation needed] Taking place during Olympia's annual Spring Arts Walk, the procession regularly draws 30,000 spectators and 2,000–3,000 participants.

Seven weeks before the procession, organizers establish a community art studio, open to the public for a minimal, optional donation.

They use mostly donated or scavenged materials to express appreciation for the natural world and create costumes, banners, floats, puppets, drumming, community bands, and more.