11 Cool Things to Do Mid-March in Albany

Photo of three rodents called nutria on a grassy parcel of landMarch 13th, noon to 1:00 p.m. The Albany Regional Museum presents History Bites. You either hate ‘em or are fascinated by ‘em—nutria! Discover how this once farmed rodent became an invasive species. Mike Martin is the presenter and his family once owned and operated an Albany nutria ranch. The lunchtime presentation is free, and will include light refreshments. Donations to the non-profit ARM will be graciously accepted. Visit the museum’s website for more details https://www.armuseum.com

March 15th through the 17th The Oregon Woodturning Symposium comes to the Linn County Fair & Expo Center. See stunning artistry in wood! One of the most exciting things about this event is the vendor gallery. Attendees will also be able to see the latest woodturning products, equipment and tools, and connect with other woodworkers. For more information: 503-763-0983. www.woodturningsymposium.com

March 16th, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., get your breakfast on at Applebee’s Grill & Bar, with the Flapjack Fundraiser for Linn County Special Olympics. All proceeds from the breakfast stay in Linn County. For more information, visit the event Facebook page.

March 16th, 9:00 a.m.  iRun for Kids Each year, approximately 700 runners of all ages and abilities gather at West Albany High School for the annual iRun for Kids race. Proceeds benefit the Albany Public Schools Foundation and its programs, including classroom grants for teachers, enrichment opportunities for kids, and scholarships. This is a great run for the serious racer as well as a fun run for all ages. There’s a 10 Mile and a 5K Run/Walk, plus the Little Leprechaun Dash: (2 laps on the WAHS track) Telephone 541-979-2773 for more information or get online registration information at irunforkids

Photo of young Ugandan children in traditional costume March 17th Ugandan Kids Choir Don’t miss this gorgeous music and dance by children. On March 17th at 5:00 p.m., the Ugandan Kids Choir, a group of talented Ugandan children, will perform at Albany First United Methodist Church. The choir has performed nationwide at churches, schools, at Disneyland, on KING 5 Seattle Television’s “New Day Northwest,” and at Qwest Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks. The Albany concert will feature traditional African song and dance. Admission is free, and any donations will support the choir’s travel through North America.

March 17th Oregon’s Military Heritage Join the Linn County Historical Society for the presentation “Oregon Military Heritage” at 2:00 p.m. Held at the Lakeside Center (in the Mennonite Village), the speaker is Warren Aney, coauthor of the book Oregon Military. Image collections that will be shared are from the Brigadier General James B. Thayer Oregon Military Museum, the Oregon Historical Society, county historical societies, other regional and national archives, and the authors’ personal collections. Copies of the book will also be for sale. Lakeside Center is located at 2180 54th Ave SE Albany, OR 97322.

Photo of a pre-teen girl sitting on a hand carved wooden elephant on the Albany Historic CarouselMarch 22nd Friday Family Fun Night at the Albany Carousel From 5;30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. enjoy a family night out at the carousel with unlimited rides and lots of activities.  Admission is $5.00 per person and children under three are FREE.  For more information telephone 541.497.2934.

March 22nd (and other dates throughout March and early April) The Albany Civic Theater presents “Too Good To Say Goodbye.” Redmon Hunter, a best-selling author of pulp fiction, has created an unusual world for himself. Recently, writer’s block has set in, so all the characters from his works in progress have set up semi-permanent residence in literary limbo. Redmon’s chance meeting with a beautiful, young pop literature professor, sets the wheels in motion for a madcap comedy where wild imaginary characters clash with real world snobs. For performance dates, times, and tickets: http://www.albanycivic.org

March 29th The BnB Lit Lighthouse Paint Follow Along This adults only (21 and older) art event will be sure to put a happy smile on your face. Join your friends or significant other at the Albany Art Studio’s famous splatter box and paint a happy little lighthouse with instructor Laura Ellis. Fee includes a 16×20 canvas and all materials. Plus, you are welcome to BYOB.

Photograph of a an open hand holding two pieces of fossilized snail shellMarch 29th, 30th, 31st The Chintiminti Kennel Club’s Conformation, Obedience, and Rally Dog Show Three days of all-breed dogs will compete at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center. The Columbia River Agility Club will also take place during the trials. For information about hours, admission, etc. visit the sponsor’s web site.

March 30th The 71st Sweet Home Gem & Mineral Show This rockhound’s paradise includes gems, minerals, slabs, fossils, cabochons, wire wrapping, flint knapping, and geode preparation demonstrations. Not to be missed! The event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Sweet Home High School, 1641 Long St. Check out show info on the Oregon Rock & Gem Show website.

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