FAQ

A Creative District is a state-certified, geographically defined area where arts, culture, creative industries, social activity, and economic development come together to enrich community life and the local economy. Certification through the Washington State Arts Commission’s Creative Districts program recognizes the district’s creative assets and helps support growth, place-making, public art, cultural activities, and creative businesses.

The Washington State Arts Commission (ArtsWA) administers the Creative District program and awards the official state certification. ArtsWA provides technical assistance, guidance, branding support, and access to startup grants and resources for communities pursuing or maintaining certification.

The Downtown Olympia Creative District received its official state certification in the summer of 2019. Planning and community engagement began earlier as part of the city’s Arts, Culture & Heritage (ARCH) efforts and downtown strategic planning.

The initial development of the District was supported by a broad coalition of partners (many of whom are on our advisory committee!) including:

• City of Olympia and its Arts, Culture & Heritage (ARCH) initiative applied for the designation and put together a contract for strategic planning
• Olympia Downtown Alliance built an advisory team and developed a strategy for the Creative District.
• The Olympia Artspace Alliance implemented part of that strategy by contracting with an artist, Drew Garza, to design a comprehensive brand strategy, and with David Hoekje to connect with the downtown community.
• Throughout the process, local artists, creative businesses, arts organizations, and community leaders engaged through advisory committees and public meetings shared their thoughts and ideas.

We're our own organization! While we grow funding, we are supported by close relationships with local non profits and the city. The Olympia Artspace Alliance (OAA) acts as our fiscal sponsor so we can apply for grant funding and form partnerships with other organizations. Generous INSPIRE funding from the City of Olympia helped with our launch and planning in 2025.

The Downtown Olympia Creative District aims to:

• Support creative businesses and artists with visibility and infrastructure  
• Strengthen the downtown economy by attracting visitors, jobs, and creative entrepreneurs
• Enhance place-making through public art, performance, and cultural programming
• Celebrate Olympia’s creative identity and deepen community connection