About The Society
The Society was a downtown Olympia nightclub and live music venue known for its energetic dance floor and lively atmosphere. Located at 111 Washington Street NE in Olympia , it occupied a vintage one-story building (built in 1920 ) near the Washington State Capitol. In its heyday it drew hundreds of clubgoers for DJ nights, concerts, and special events. Despite its relatively modest size as a local business (employing roughly eight staff ), The Society became a prominent spot on Olympia’s nightlife map. Reviewers noted its “crazy” lighting and strong sound, with one enthusiastic fan calling it “the only place you’ll want to consider” for dancing in town . The venue featured a main open floor for standing-room dancing and reserved seating in VIP sections, along with bar service and a few pool tables (as one longtime patron recalled, “there was no seating because it was all reserved for VIP” ). Over the years The Society hosted a mix of DJs spinning electronic, hip-hop and 90s dance music, as well as indie band nights and album-release shows. It served as a cultural hub for Olympia’s alternative music scene, drawing local and regional acts and providing one of the few dedicated late-night dance venues in the city.
Events and Programming
The Society’s calendar was packed with events nearly every weekend. In the late 2010s it booked a mix of club nights (electronic dance, hip-hop, retro ’90s throwbacks, and themed nights) alongside live music shows. Local DJs and dance promoters often held weekend parties; for example, Olympia film and arts organizations used The Society for music fundraisers and album release parties. Notable past events included occasional local band concerts and themed EDM nights. The venue favored high-energy acts, with a focus on DJ-driven dance music. Ticket prices varied by event and tended to range from a modest cover charge ($5–$15 when it was open) for club nights to higher price points for special live shows. Advance tickets were typically sold through local music event outlets or online platforms (as was common for Olympia venues), while walk-up door sales were often available until capacity was reached. For bigger or sold-out shows, patrons were advised to buy tickets early. Although The Society no longer operates, during its run it earned a reputation for reasonable drink prices, friendly staff, and long nights of music – a combination that many former patrons remember fondly .
Tickets and Booking
When The Society was open, tickets were generally sold via online event sites and local outlets. There was no traditional box office for pre-purchased tickets – prospective attendees usually bought admission through event listings on ticketing or social media sites. For many shows the door had a cash box office (and sometimes card payment) where patrons could purchase tickets or wristbands at entry. Door sales were common on less-crowded nights, while large events typically sold out in advance. The venue did not use a high-end ticket system, so advice was to arrive early for popular shows if buying at the door. Pricing tiers varied: most regular club nights had a modest cover fee (often just a few dollars), plus higher fees or drink specials on themed nights. There was sometimes a VIP line or guest list for specific events. All tickets (and especially any presale VIP packages) were subject to Olympia’s entertainment tax. It’s important to note that as of the mid-2020s The Society is permanently closed (it ceased operations around 2019–2020), so no tickets are currently on sale.
Seating and Layout
The interior had an industrial-chic feel with an open layout. The Society did not have traditional theater seating; instead it offered a large dance floor surrounded by high-top tables and stools. As one reviewer observed, the main area was essentially standing-room only because all fixed seating was reserved for VIP tables . In practice this meant the crowd stood and danced for most events. A raised stage at the front of the room hosted DJs and bands, with space for dancing just in front. The bar ran along one wall, and additional lounge seating was tucked into VIP corners. Acoustically, the club was built for loud music – patrons described a powerful sound system with booming bass suitable for dance music. Lighting was a key feature: colorful LED panels, strobe lights, and a fog machine created a visually intense club vibe (a satisfied customer even called the lighting “crazy” ). A few pool tables were located on the side, giving guests something to do off the dance floor. The restrooms were typical for a nightclub (separate men’s and women’s rooms near the back). Accessibility was limited by the vintage building; there may have been a single-step entry and narrow doorways, so guests with wheelchairs or strollers needed to inquire in advance. Overall, the layout maximized dancing space and mingling, with no permanently assigned seats or rows of chairs.
Getting There and Parking
The Society’s address in downtown Olympia made it easy to find. It was located on Washington Street NE between 4th and 5th Avenues, just south of the Capitol Campus. Guests arriving by car could use one of several nearby parking options. Street parking is available on Washington and 4th Avenue, though on busy nights spaces can fill quickly. Paid lots are nearby (for example, a Diamond Parking lot at Washington & 5th is just a block away, charging a few dollars per hour ). The closest garages are a few blocks away (the City Hall parking garage at 300 5th Ave SE or Capitol garage at 1500 State Ave are common choices). Rideshare and taxi drop-off works well on 4th Ave or Washington St; due to one-way streets, it’s easiest for drivers to approach via Adams Street. For public transit, Olympia’s Intercity Transit buses stop frequently near the Capitol campus. The closest bus stops are on 4th Avenue and Washington Street (just a quarter-mile north and south of the venue). Routes from Tumwater, Lacey, and other Olympia neighborhoods run through downtown to the Capitol visitor parking lot. Visitors often walked from nearby downtown hotels or apartments. In summary, The Society sat in the heart of downtown Olympia’s entertainment district, reachable by car (with paid parking), by bus (Intercity Transit routes), or on foot from surrounding city blocks.
Inside the Venue
At The Society’s front entrance, doormen checked IDs and tickets. The dress code was casual nightclub style – glossy shoes or clubwear were typical, while athletic wear and flip-flops were generally discouraged. Upon entry, staff conducted security screening (metal detectors or pat-downs) to ensure safety. The atmosphere inside was energetic: loud music, flashing lights, and a crowd dancing floor-to-floor. The bar served full cocktails, beer, and wine, with multiple bartenders to keep service flowing (patrons mentioned drinks were reasonably priced). A separate lounge area offered booth-style seating for VIPs or groups. Late-night snacks were not a primary feature, so most guests dined beforehand or stuck to bar food (occasional simple appetizers might be available). A small coat check was usually offered for a fee, useful in winter. Restrooms were compact but adequate; lines sometimes formed during peak hours. Throughout the evening, live DJs mixed music non-stop until closing. The house lights were low, and crowd noise made phone calls difficult – texting or photos in the dim light was more common. House rules forbade outside drinks, smoking (a strictly non-smoking indoor policy), and disruptive behavior. Security and floor staff monitored the event to handle rowdy patrons. Toward closing, the atmosphere stayed lively; the party typically peaked between midnight and 2am. For connectivity, cell service was fair to good inside, though bandwidth could drop with many users. The venue did not offer free Wi-Fi, so most people relied on cellular data. If merchandise was sold, it was usually concert-related (band T-shirts or small event posters) rather than venue-brand items.
Nearby Amenities
The Society was surrounded by many dining and nightlife options. For pre-show dining, patrons needed only walk a block or two. Nearby restaurants included local favorites such as Broder Söder (Scandinavian plates at 116 5th Ave), C. Rex Oyster (Pacific seafood at 253 Sumner), and Mediterranea (Middle Eastern cuisine at 701 4th Ave). For quick bites or tacos, Gyro Spot (516 Capitol Way N) and Boris & Horton’s Deli (523 State Ave) were popular. Several pubs and cafes dotted the area: The Down Under Ale House (1100 Capitol Way S) offered pub fare and a large beer selection, while Bar Carlo (410 Capitol Way S) was known for cocktails. Coffee shops like Batdorf & Bronson (center city location) made it easy to meet before early evenings. After late-night events, many guests visited 4th Avenue Tavern (450 4th Ave E) or Little Red Hen Brewing (255 Capitol Way S) for a nightcap. Olympia’s hotel scene is also within walking distance. The Governor Hotel (0.3 mi to the north) and the Hampton Inn Olympia (0.5 mi south) are two downtown options with easy access. If arriving by transit, the Olympia Amtrak station is a couple miles south (a Lyft or bus is needed from there). Guests often planned to arrive an hour before showtime to grab food or parking. Late-night rides (taxis or rideshares) can be requested on 4th Ave by City Hall or on 5th Ave; be aware that some streets downtown are one-way. Overall, visitors found plenty of bars, eateries, and services within a short stroll of The Society.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Society stood out as Olympia’s premier nightclub during its years of operation. Unlike smaller bars and music halls, it offered an all-ages dance club experience (with most entry restricted to 18+ or 21+ on big nights) in a city with relatively few large concert venues. Its distinct character came from combining a major city club vibe with local indie spirit. Visitors noted the “best music anywhere in town” and “great staff” as highlights . The multi-colored lighting rig and fog effects created a miniature rave atmosphere, which was unmatched by other nearby venues. The venue’s owners occasionally booked themed nights or special guest DJs that expanded Olympia’s cultural offerings beyond the usual cover bands. It became a rite of passage for many local college students and an attractive stop for touring DJs and underground artists. Over its run, The Society fostered community among fans of dance and electronic music who had previously limited options. Its role in supporting local music culture – from hosting benefit parties to giving a stage to emerging artists – added to its legacy. Despite some controversies, many remember the club fondly for its energy, diversity of music, and role as a home for late-night dancing in Olympia. In short, The Society was special because it gave a city often associated with folk and punk a place to dance freely, bringing nightlife excitement to the capital.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Because the building was older, wheelchair access was limited. The entrance may have had a small step, and the main floor was flat but crowded. Those needing accommodations should call ahead to confirm availability of ramps or assistance. The venue generally did not have elevator service (it was all on one level) or designated accessible restrooms.
Age Restrictions: Events at The Society were typically 18+ or 21+ (Washington law requires 21+ for hard liquor). Always bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) – bouncers enforced age checks strictly. No minors under the posted age limit were allowed.
Bags and Security: Carry only small bags. Large backpacks were often not permitted due to security screening. All patrons passed through metal detectors or were wanded on entry. Backpacks, outside food/drinks, and weapons were prohibited. The staff ran secure coat checks (for a small fee) if you needed to store jackets or bags.
Photography and Phones: Casual photography with your phone was generally allowed for personal memories. However, professional cameras or flash photography were usually restricted (as is common in clubs with DJs). Also, expect low lighting and loud music – for clear pictures, arrive early or use thumbnail camera flashes. Cell phone signal was usually okay, but uploading large files might be slow when crowded.
Dress Code: Dress was typically casual to semi-dressy clubwear. Many guests wore dark or bright dance attire and closed-toe shoes. While no formal dress code was advertised, attire with offensive logos or overly casual sportswear could cause hassle at the door. As always, wear something comfortable you can dance in.
Health and Safety Tips: It could get smokey (even with no indoor smoking, horn of vapor or fog machines) and very loud. If you’re sensitive to noise or smoke, consider earplugs or take occasional breaks to the quieter lounge area. Stay hydrated and set a meeting spot with friends, as crowds made navigation tricky. Staff and bouncers were on hand to handle issues, so do not hesitate to alert them if you feel unsafe.
Coordination: Olympia’s downtown venues close around 2am. Plan your transport accordingly: last Intercity Transit buses often run around midnight or 1am. Rideshare apps (Uber/Lyft) and taxis were available downtown, but surge pricing can apply on busy weekend nights. Booking a ride a block away from the main crowd (e.g. on 4th Ave or 5th Ave) often expedited pick-up after events. If staying nearby, keep hotel or B&B contact handy in case you need to call for help late at night. Lastly, check event specifics in advance: sometimes concerts have their own rules or timings. Follow local Olympia event calendars or social media pages for updates (though as noted, The Society itself is now closed）.
Is The Society in Olympia open or permanently closed?
As of 2023, The Society is permanently closed. Reviews and listings from Olympia note that the club “isn’t even open anymore” (with closure around 2019–2020) . There are currently no events, tickets, or bookings for The Society; the information here serves for historical reference and context.
What was the capacity of The Society nightclub?
Exact official capacity figures for The Society are not published, but it accommodated several hundred guests. The venue’s 6,600+ square foot floor (one story) and standing-room layout suggests a capacity in the low hundreds. (City permitting often set capacity around 300–400 people for similar-sized nightclubs.) During busy events the club did reach its limit, so presold or early-arrival tickets were advised for packed concerts.
How do I get tickets or a guest list for a show there?
When The Society was active, tickets were typically sold through local outlets or online event sites, and some shows had guest lists. At the door, staff could often honor guest list names or sell walk-up tickets if the event wasn’t sold out. Since the club is now closed, there are no current ticketing options or guest-list policies to follow.
What types of events were held at The Society?
The Society hosted a variety of nightlife events. Regular events included electronic dance and hip-hop DJ nights, 80s/90s themed parties, and college nights on weekends. They also booked live music – local rock, punk or indie bands, album release shows, and touring DJs. The club featured special theme parties (e.g. EDM or disco nights) as well as charity or ticketed concerts. In short, expect dance and live music performances rather than theater or family-friendly shows.
What did a typical event ticket cost at The Society?
Ticket prices at The Society varied widely by event. Cover charges for club nights were typically low (often a few dollars to enter). Concerts or special events had higher prices – usually in the $10–$25 range, depending on the performer and size of the show. VIP or presale packages cost more. Since the venue is closed, these prices are only historical estimates.
Where was The Society located and how do I drive there?
The Society’s address was 111 Washington St NE, Olympia, WA, in the downtown area near 4th Avenue . To drive there today (for nearby destinations), use Capitol Way or State Ave to reach the Capitol campus, then downtown streets to Washington St. Keep in mind that downtown Olympia has one-way streets, so follow local signage. Street parking is metered (check posted limits) and there are several pay lots nearby. For example, Diamond Parking lots in downtown charge around $6–$7 for a few hours .
Is there a dress code at The Society nightclub?
The Society enforced a smart-casual dress code. Guests usually dressed in typical nightclub attire: jeans or pants, t-shirts or blouses, and sturdy shoes suitable for dancing. Athletic wear, gym shoes, or overly casual flip-flops were often discouraged at night. Some special events encouraged themed costumes or dress-up, but ordinary cover nights had no formal attire requirement. Ultimately use tidy, stylish clothing – not tank tops or jerseys – to ensure smooth entry.
Does The Society have a strict age limit for entry?
Yes. The Society was a bar and nightclub, so the legal drinking age applied. For most events, guests had to be 21+ with a valid ID to enter. Some early-evening or specially advertised events allowed 18+ entry (with non–alcoholic drinks available), but the standard was 21+. Always check the event listing, as age policies could vary by show. During its operation, enforcement was strict: no ID meant no entry.
Is The Society wheelchair-accessible?
Being housed in a historic 1920 building , The Society had limited accessibility. The main floor was flat, but there was typically a small step at the front entrance. The building did not have an elevator (it was single-story), and restroom facilities were standard size. People using wheelchairs would have needed assistance. For current visitor needs (at nearby venues), it’s best to contact the venue in advance or look for nearby fully accessible locations in downtown Olympia.
Were reservations or coat check available?
The Society did not offer dining reservations (it was a nightclub, not a restaurant). It did offer a coat-check service at the coatroom next to the entrance, typically charging a small fee per item. This was useful in cooler months when guests could store jackets or bags for the night. Reservations for tables or VIP areas occasionally existed through promoters for special events, but standard cover nights were first-come, first-served.
How is parking near The Society and what does it cost?
Street parking fronts the venue (Washington St and 4th Ave), but spaces are limited and meter-regulated. Nearby public garages and lots accommodate downtown visitors. For example, one Diamond Parking lot at Washington & 5th charges around $6 for a couple of hours . City garages (e.g. the one at City Hall) offer hourly rates as well. Meters typically run $1–$2 per hour. On weekends many spots are free after 6pm, but guests should always read posted signs. Rideshare drop-off is popular on 4th Ave. Plan to arrive early to find parking close by if you drive.
What time should I arrive for a show at The Society?
Doors at The Society typically opened around 9pm or 10pm for most shows. Arriving by 9:30–10:00pm was usually safe for general-admission. For in-demand events, enthusiasts stood in line up to an hour early to secure a good spot on the dance floor. Since Olympia venues often get crowded quickly, plan to come early if you want to avoid long queues. Closing time was generally 2am Friday/Saturday. Always check event postings, as some special events had earlier or later schedules.
Is outside food or drink allowed in The Society?
No. Outside food and beverages were prohibited. The Society had a full bar inside, so guests were expected to purchase drinks on-site. Patrons from outside also could not bring in their own snacks. The venue enforced this right at the door for security and licensing reasons.
Are cameras allowed inside The Society?
Casual photography (phones or small point-and-shoot cameras) was generally permitted for personal use. Guests often took pictures of friends or the light show, as long as it didn’t disturb others. Flash photography or professional camera rigs required staff approval and were uncommon. Video recording of DJs or shows was typically discouraged. As a general rule: basic cellphone photos were fine, but professional photo equipment was a no-go without permission.
What public transit options serve The Society?
The Society was a short walk from several Intercity Transit bus stops. Main downtown routes (such as the #62, #63, and #64 Lakefair routes, as well as the #65 campus shuttles) stop near the Capitol campus a block north of Washington St. The 67 Capitol-Centria route also served downtown. After exiting the bus at 4th & Capitol or at the Capitol building, it’s a 2–3 block walk to The Society’s location. Late-night buses are limited, so many visitors took rideshare or taxi for the way home instead.
