The home of Calvin Johnson and grunge rock, historic record labels and KAOS FM, The Evergreen State College, and the best crappy beer you can get that’s not brewed there anymore, Olympia is the perfect place to fill the void in your life. With a constant forecast of rain, an abundance of hairy armpits and the freshest greens, creative minds flourish in this little town. Somehow this unique combination produces one of the best underground music scenes, funky shopping experiences, and community activations you can find in the Northwest. On Feb. 22, 2018, the Weekly Volcano's Best of Olympia 2018, sponsored by ThurstonVeteranBusiness.com will tell the world what our readers like “best” about the capital city – and we’d like your help.

Olympia is diverse, and it takes a village to unveil all the best things to see, do and hear. Your thoughts and knowledge would be much appreciated. We need you to cast your votes by taking our online reader’s survey. Think you know the best restaurant, politician, hero or thrift store? Want to help spread the word about the best bike shop, hair salon or bar in Thurston County? To VOTE, Click HERE!

All who vote in this year’s Best of Olympia poll will also be automatically entered in a drawing to win a $50 gift certificates to area restaurants (multiple winners). Just by offering your opinion, you might be the lucky winner. And even if you don’t win, your opinion will help readers discover a city and region through your eyes.

Those taking the survey are encouraged to cast their votes for entities across Thurston County. Although known as the Best of Olympia, picks from Lacey, Tumwater and other towns are perfectly acceptable. The Best of Olympia is a regional examination of people, places and things.

Voting ends January 31, 2018 at 5 p.m.  Best of Olympia is co-sponsored by Patriot Towing - 360-890-9288.