Happy 150, Albany.

In the year 1864, the United States was in the grips of the Civil War; Queen Victoria ruled over the United Kingdom; and on Oct. 14, way out west in Oregon's Willamette Valley, Albany was officially incorporated as a city.

One hundred fifty years later, the city has grown to more than 50 thousand people, but some things are still the same–the Calapooia and Willamette Rivers still meet right downtown, forming a perfect place for fishing, canoeing, and splashing in the water's edge. Historic houses that have been standing since the 1800s still line the streets of the town. And mild winters, sunny summers, and fertile soil still make this the perfect growing location for farmers, who bring their tasty treats to market each week to share with the rest of us.

To celebrate all the things we love about Albany, the community is planning a 150th birthday celebration the weekend before the official Oct. 14 incorporation date. Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12, plan to come downtown for the town-wide party!

A few of the things you can enjoy at the 150th Birthday celebration:

On Saturday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Farmer's Market downtown across from the Linn County Courthouse:

• Heirloom apple tasting
• free birthday card making for kids
• pioneer-era food activities for kids
• live music

On Sunday, Oct. 12, from 1-4 p.m. at a birthday party at City Hall:

*kids can contribute to a time capsule

*prizes for the oldest Albany resident attending; the best party hat or old-fashioned costume; longest beard; and best jack-o-lantern.

*free trolley rides

*cake, ice cream, pie, sausage, cheese, and other local goodies

How you can get involved:

Put your love of Albany in writing! Forms are available at the Albany Visitors Association for residents to write down their favorite things about Albany. They'll be read aloud at the party on Sunday, as well as collected for an archive of the occasion. You can e-mail completed forms to albany150birthday@gmail.com, or drop them off at City Hall or the Albany Visitors Association.