The holidays may be behind us, but the joy of shopping local in Chehalis lasts all year. Our charming community is home to an incredible mix of small businesses that thrive because of local support, making it easy and rewarding to keep your shopping close to home. From everyday needs to special splurges, Chehalis has just what you’re looking for.

Discover Unique Finds Anytime

Downtown Chehalis is a shopper’s delight in every season. Stores like Book ‘N’ Brush offer a thoughtful mix of books, art supplies, and creative gifts perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or “just because.” Find the perfect home accents and gifts at Smith’s Mercantile, then update your wardrobe with on-trend clothing from Runway Boutique, Gracie’s on Market, Be-You-Tiful Boutique, and Hutch Menswear. With such a variety of shops, finding something unique is always part of the fun.

Make Self-Care a Priority

The slower pace after the holidays is the perfect opportunity to focus on yourself. Chehalis’ local businesses make it easy to refresh and recharge, whether that means updating your wardrobe, enjoying a skin treatment, indulging in handcrafted chocolates, or picking up gourmet treats from specialty shops. Supporting local while practicing self-care? That’s a win-win.

Everyday Essentials with a Personal Touch

Shopping local isn’t just for special occasions. From fresh finds in home décor, self-care, fabric and fibers, and other daily necessities from family-run shops, keeping it local turns everyday errands into meaningful moments that support your neighbors.

Support That Goes Both Ways

Every dollar spent locally helps keep Chehalis thriving, supporting local families, creating jobs, and reinvesting in the heart of our community. Shopping local is about more than purchases; it’s about connection, pride, and strengthening the place we call home.

Make Shopping Local a Lifestyle

Make it a habit to shop local year-round and discover just how rewarding it can be. From seasonal events to everyday purchases, there’s always a reason to explore what Chehalis has to offer. Keep it local and help our community continue to flourish, because Chehalis isn’t just a place to shop, it’s home.

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Experience Chehalis invites artists to submit proposals for an Earth Day design to promote the upcoming Earth Day Community Clean-up event on April 26th. The selected artwork will be featured on posters, social media, t-shirts, and stickers, aiming to inspire community participation and environmental stewardship.

Experience Chehalis is asking artists to submit up to two designs, incorporating specific elements.

• A representation of planet Earth included in the design
• Image will depict a positive and colorful representation of our planet / Earth Day
• Design will be contained to a square area so it can be easily placed into an 11×17-inch poster.
• Please DO NOT include words in the design.

Each selected artist will receive $350 for their design, with Experience Chehalis obtaining shared ownership of the artwork. This opportunity is open to all ages and experience levels.

To be considered for the project, please submit the following by March 31, 2025:

• Basic Information. Provide your name, mailing address, phone number, and email.
• Artist Profile. Tell us about yourself! Please submit a short bio.
• Design. Include a finished concept of your artwork in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format.
• Submit Instructions. Please submit the information requested to info@experiencechehalis.com by the submission deadline of March 31, 2025. The selected artist will be announced by April 4, 2024.

Thank you for your interest in our project and for supporting Earth Day and a beautiful, vibrant Chehalis! We look forward to receiving your submission. Please email questions regarding this project to info@experiencechehalis.com.

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The Easter Eggspress isn’t just a train ride; it’s a full day of springtime fun! Before or after your journey, youth up to 12 years old gather candy-filled eggs on the grassy area at the depot and enjoy exciting activities including bounce houses, face painting, and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself! Bring your Easter basket for your photos with the Easter Bunny.

Feeling hungry? We’ve got you covered! Small bites will be available on-site, offering delicious tamales and hot dogs for a tasty Easter treat. Hot cocoa and cider will also be available.

Families will also have the chance to learn about train safety from dedicated Operation Lifesaver volunteers and do activities at the Discover! Childrens Museum’s table.

Don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends. Tickets are limited, so book your ride on the Easter Eggspress today! Walk-ups are on a space-available basis. Join us for a ride on the Easter Eggspress and make this Easter one to remember!

The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad is a historic non-profit railroad dedicated to preserving the rich railway history of the Pacific Northwest while offering unique and entertaining experiences for everyone. The train departs from the Chehalis Centralia Train Depot at 1101 SW Sylvenus Street, Chehalis, WA 98532, Exit 77 off I-5. For more details and to book your tickets, visit our website.

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The Southwest Washington Dance Center will host the 31st annual Dance Festival Northwest on Saturday, March 22, at 7:00 PM. Dance Festival Northwest brings dance companies from around the Pacific Northwest to the Centralia/Chehalis area. The dancers attend Master Dance Classes together as a group, and then each company performs dance pieces they have prepared at a fabulous performance at Corbet Theatre in Centralia. This year you will see diverse forms of dance performed, from contemporary and classical ballet on pointe, modern/contemporary dance, jazz, ballroom, tap, and hip hop.

Under the direction of Artistic Director Brianna Jones, the host company is Southwest Washington Dance Ensemble from Chehalis, WA. For over 42 years, Southwest Washington Dance Ensemble has given the gift of dance to the Lewis County area. The Dance Ensemble has performed for audiences at the Lewis County Community Concerts, Miss Lewis County Pageant, The Nutcracker Ballet, Northwest Wind Symphony, and the Merce Cunningham Tribute. They have also danced at Dancepalooza in Seattle, Dance to Make a Difference Charity Gala, and Olympia Dance Festival. The Ensemble also tours every spring with a production for elementary schools in greater Lewis County and South Thurston County.

Visiting companies this year include Ballet Northwest from Olympia, Evergreen City Ballet from Renton, Maple Valley School of Ballet from Black Diamond, Olympia Ballet Center from Olympia, Olympic Ballroom Dance from Olympia, Rennat Choreography from Chehalis, Seattle Civic Dance Theatre from Seattle, Studio West Dance Theatre from Olympia, Studio West Dance Academy from Olympia, Vashon Dance Academy from Vashon Island, and host company, Southwest Washington Dance Ensemble from Chehalis.

Tickets are available online at www.swwdance.org or in person at Southwest Washington Dance Center at 437 N Market Blvd, Chehalis, and at the door if available. For more information, call the Dance Center at 360-748-4789

Tickets: 

• Adults: $25
• Seniors (62+), Students, Military & Children: $20
• Live Stream: $20

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Join us for an open house on the City of Chehalis’ and Port of Chehalis’ joint “Flood Strategy Investment Plan” (FSIP)!

• Event: City of Chehalis and Port of Chehalis FSIP Open House and Educational Session
• Date: March 6, 2025
• Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (stop by anytime during these hours)
• Location: VR Lee Community Building, 221 SW 13^th St, Chehalis, WA 98532

Come to the event to learn about localized efforts to tackle flooding stemming from the Dillenbaugh, Dilly Twig, and Berwick Creeks, and what you can do to help! This is your chance to:

• Explore our Progress: Find out what we’ve been up to and what we’ve accomplished so far.
• Understand the Project: Learn about the Flood Strategy and Investment Plan (FSIP) and specific areas identified as high risk.
• Discuss Solutions: Dive into the problems and potential solutions for flood risk management.
• Community Action: Learn what you can do to help!

This project is brought to you by the City of Chehalis, Port of Chehalis, and Chehalis River Basin Flood Authority, and as part of the larger Chehalis Basin Strategy. Together, we aim to reduce the risk of future flooding that has previously impacted our communities.

For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/chehalisfsip.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the conversation and contribute to a safer, more resilient flood future!  See you there!

Contact Celest Wilder with the City of Chehalis at cwilder@ci.chehalis.wa.us or Bill Teitzel with the Port of Chehalis at bteitzel@portofchehalis.com with any questions or suggestions.

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Take a few minutes to complete this brief survey and share your thoughts as we work together on a year-long initiative to enhance downtown infrastructure. Your voice is vital in creating a vibrant, welcoming downtown Chehalis for residents and visitors alike.

Take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHRP

The Imagine Downtown Chehalis initiative launched February 2024 to revitalize public infrastructure in the historic downtown area. The master plan will guide future improvements along Market Boulevard, Washington Avenue, Pacific Avenue, and Boistfort Street. Proposed upgrades include improved sidewalks, optimized traffic flow, enhanced lighting, and better roadways, all designed to create a safer, more inviting streetscape that fosters community connection and supports economic growth.

The post Third Imagine Downtown Chehalis Survey Now Open appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

Blacklight Mini Golf + Dinner Downtown

Kick off your evening with some friendly competition at Shankz 3D Miniature Blacklight Golf. Test your skills on their glowing course, try the escape room, or enjoy classic arcade games. Afterward, refuel with dinner at one of downtown Chehalis’s great restaurants. Not sure where to go? Check out this handy list of Chehalis dining options!

History Lovers' Date

Step back in time with a visit to the Veterans Memorial Museum, featuring stories, artifacts, and a 1940s Army barracks replica. Then explore the Lewis County Historical Museum in the historic Chehalis Depot, showcasing local history and pioneer life. End your day with a cozy meal at a nearby café, sharing your favorite discoveries!

Wild Gift Exchange + Local Lunch

Put a playful twist on gift-giving! Meet downtown, set a budget, and split up to hunt for the perfect gift. No peeking! Compete for categories like funniest gag gift or best thrift find. Once you’re done, swap gifts over lunch at one of Chehalis’s many eateries. Need ideas? Use this Chehalis Shopping Guide to maximize your adventure.

Breakfast + Shopping

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite, then explore the charming boutiques and thrift shops downtown. History buffs can enhance the experience with the Chehalis Historic Walking Tour, available at the downtown kiosk near Book ‘n’ Brush. You never know what treasures await in these unique storefronts!

Good Coffee + Good Books

For a classic PNW coffee date, meet at Shakespeare & Co., where you can browse a curated selection of used books and quirky finds. Once you’ve picked out a new read, grab a cozy seat at Market Street Bakery or Shona’s Food Co. Enjoy warm drinks, local treats, and great conversation.

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We’re lovin’ it this year. So can you, with a unique dining experience to share with your loved ones! The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad invites you to enjoy a 2-hour roundtrip excursion in the vintage 1920s dining car through the Chehalis River Valley. A multicourse dinner will be served while you sit back and relax! What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than aboard our dinner train on the historic Chehalis Centralia Railroad? Enjoy a scrumptious meal prepared by Joy’s Once Upon a Thyme while you take a nostalgic round trip to Ruth (a former rail stop near Boistfort/Curtis), just 9 miles west of Chehalis. The slow, clickety clack of the tracks adds to the ambiance of the charming vintage coaches. Tables of four allow you to enjoy your friends and family.

This special excursion is set for Saturday, February 8, and departs from the depot at 5:00 p.m. with a return expected at 7:00 p.m. The full experience is $89 per person with free parking. We pride ourselves on ADA-accessible parking and an accessible ramp to the loading platform. The Depot is located at 1101 SW Sylvenus Street, Chehalis, WA 98532 (Halfway between Seattle and Portland at Exit 77 on I-5).

Reservations must be made 6 days before the departure date. Seating choices and tickets must be reserved online. Tables seat 4. This popular ride is limited to 100 guests and tends to sell out, so plan your special day today and check our website for reservations. More details and reservations are available on our website.

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At this open house, the City will unveil the preferred concept for downtown renovations and seek input from attendees. This concept reflects the feedback gathered through two previous open houses and community surveys. The City is eager to hear from residents and stakeholders to refine and finalize plans that will shape the future of Chehalis.

Imagine Downtown Chehalis is a year-long initiative to create a design plan for revitalizing the city’s historic downtown. The project focuses on improving infrastructure along Market Boulevard, Washington Avenue, Pacific Avenue, and Boistfort Street. Proposed upgrades include improved sidewalks, optimized traffic flow, enhanced lighting, and safer streetscapes to foster a vibrant, welcoming downtown.

Community feedback has been vital in shaping the project’s direction, and your voice continues to play a critical role. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to the vision for downtown Chehalis.

The post City of Chehalis Invites Community to Third Open House for Imagine Downtown Chehalis Project appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

The holiday season might be over, but that doesn’t mean the magic of shopping local in Chehalis has to stop. Our charming town is brimming with incredible small businesses that thrive thanks to community support, making it easy—and rewarding—to shop local all year long. Whether you’re picking up everyday essentials or treating yourself to something special, Chehalis has you covered.

Discover Unique Finds Anytime

Downtown Chehalis is a shopper’s paradise, no matter the season. Boutiques like Book ‘N’ Brush offer a thoughtful selection of books, art supplies, and gifts perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because. Totally Pawsome ensures your pets stay spoiled year-round; shops like Shakespeare & Co. Antiques bring timeless charm to your shopping trips. With every store offering something special, it’s easy to find unique treasures for yourself or loved ones.

Make Self-Care a Priority

The slower pace after the holidays is the perfect time to treat yourself. Chehalis’ local businesses make it simple to refresh and recharge. Update your wardrobe at local boutiques or indulge in handcrafted chocolates and gourmet goodies from specialty shops. Pampering yourself while supporting the community? That’s a win-win!

Everyday Essentials with a Personal Touch

Shopping local doesn’t just mean buying gifts or splurging—it also means picking up everyday necessities from community-based businesses. Whether it’s fresh produce at the farmers market, home decor from local shops, or pet supplies from family-run stores, keeping it local can turn everyday errands into a meaningful experience.

Support That Goes Both Ways

Every dollar spent locally helps keep Chehalis vibrant, creating jobs, supporting local families, and reinvesting in the community. Shopping local isn’t just about buying products; it’s about fostering connections and strengthening the heart of Chehalis.

Make Shopping Local a Lifestyle

Resolve to shop locally all year long and discover how rewarding it is to keep your dollars within the community. From seasonal events to everyday purchases, there’s always a reason to explore what Chehalis has to offer. Keep it local and help our town continue to flourish—because Chehalis is more than a place to shop; it’s home.

The post Keep It Local: Shopping in Chehalis Year-Round appeared first on Experience Chehalis.