Enjoy family friendly fun as activities return

Activities abound through August and into September in and around Albany, with plenty of family friendly fun to be enjoyed – from concerts to carnivals to antiques in the streets.

Since Covid restrictions have eased, many of our favorite events have returned. But be aware that some social distancing protocols may still apply. Before attending an event, call ahead or check websites and Facebook pages for up-to-date information.

Here are a few outstanding activities to experience:

Summer Sounds: Monday concert series at Monteith Riverpark in Albany, 7 p.m. $1 suggested donation. Aug. 2 – Arietta Ward; Aug. 9 – The Coats; Aug. 16 – Stone in Love. Information: cityofalbany.net/parks/events/summer-sounds

River Rhythms: Albany’s popular Thursday evening concert series at Monteith Riverpark, 7 p.m. $1 suggested donation. Aug. 5 – Smash Mouth; Aug. 12 – John Michael Montgomery. Information: riverrhythms.org

Movies at Monteith: Friday night flicks at Monteith Riverpark, sponsored by the Albany Downtown Association, Albany Parks and Rec and The Pix Theatre. Movies start at dusk (around 9 p.m.). Cost: Free. Dates are Aug. 6 and Aug. 13. Featured movies TBA. https:// Information: Go to Movies at Monteith Facebook page.

The Great Platypus Drop: 3 p.m., Aug. 21. A fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity, 10,000 rubber “platypuses” will be dropped from the sky onto a large target at Swanson Park. The platypus landing closest to the bullseye will win the grand prize (or any one of 14 other prizes)! Adopt a platypus for $5. Tickets may be purchased online or in person at the Habitat office (call 541-967-4030) and the day of the event.

Carnival at the Carousel: Have some old-fashioned fun 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 21 at the Historic Carousel & Museum. There will be carousel rides, carnival games, a cake walk, face painting, balloon art and much, much more. Admission is free, but carnival game tickets are 25 cents each. Information: albanycarousel.com/event

Thompson’s Mills Cider Pressing: The friendly people out at Thompson’s Mills State Heritage Site near Shedd have set four dates for pressing apples: Sept. 18, Oct. 9 and Oct. 30. Come and join the fun and take home some delicious, fresh apple cider.

Antiques in the Streets & Classic Car Show: Come browse for antique treasure among more than 50 vendors through the streets of Downtown Albany, then check out some outstanding automobiles at the Classic Car Show. Sponsored by the Albany Antique Mall. Admission is free. Proceeds from vendor fees benefit a local non-profit. Information: albanyantiquemall.com

Other ideas: Albany Beer Run (Sept. 11); Albany Scottish Festival (Sept. 18).

These are just a few of the great events happening in the Albany area into September. For more, check out the Calendar of Events at albanyvisitors.com.