Albany Holiday Events | Dec. 14-Dec. 20, 2015

500 px Christmas Storybookland by Ann Kinkley

Make some holiday memories in Albany, Oregon this week! It’s the final week of Christmas Storybook Land for 2015, plus a visit from Santa’s reindeer, a chance to ride the Candy Cane Express, and still 10 more days of holiday shopping before Christmas. Keep reading to find out what’s happening in Albany this week.

Here are our top picks for the third week of the holiday season, Dec. 14-20, 2015. For even more things to do in Albany, Oregon, visit our full event calendar.


Final week of Christmas Storybook Land 2015 | 5-8:30 p.m. Dec. 14-17, 1-8:30 p.m. Dec. 18, 2015. If you haven’t done it already, this week is the last week of 2015 to take your kids to this magical Albany tradition. Walk through a winter wonderland of storybook scenes, Christmas trees, model trains and dollhouses, including a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Details: Christmas Storybook Land

Storytime with Santa | 9:30 a.m. Dec. 15, 2015. Come visit Santa at Heritage Mall and hear a classic Christmas story. Details: Storytime with Santa

Holiday Light Winners announcement | Dec. 15, 2015. Winners of the 2015 Night Time Magic Holiday Light Contest will be announced this week. Stay tuned for the winners and then plan an evening outing to visit Albany’s favorite Christmas light displays.

Meet Santa’s Reindeer | 3-7 p.m. Dec. 18, 2015. Come see live reindeer at Heritage Mall! Details: Live Reindeer Visit

Hoodoo Ski & Recreation Opens | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 18, 2015. Hoodoo Ski & Recreation kicks off its 2015/16 season on Friday, Dec. 18, and will remain open until at least 4 p.m. every day through Jan. 4. Check the official website for updates and mountain status: Ski Hoodoo

Holiday Sleigh Rides | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 19, 2015. Visitors to Heritage Mall can enjoy free sleigh rides around the parking lot in a beautiful horse-drawn carriage. Details: Sleigh Ride

Holiday Nosh Tour | 4-7 p.m. Dec. 19, 2015. Ride on a vintage trolley and taste your way through town, enjoying tasty bites from half-a-dozen chefs at stops along the way. UPDATE: Regular tickets are sold out for this event, but until Dec. 15 new subscribers to Albany Visitors Association’s e-newsletter are entered to win the final pair of tickets. Click to subscribe to the newsletter and be entered to win: E-newsletter sign-up

Willamette Valley Concert Band Christmas Concert | 2-4 p.m. Dec. 19, 2015. Treat your ears to a festive celebration featuring traditional and popular Christmas songs, at the Russell Tripp Performance Center at Linn-Benton Community College. Details: Willamette Valley Concert Band

Christmas Caroling Wagon | 5-8 p.m. Dec. 20, 2015. Ride through Albany’s historic districts in a horse-drawn wagon, singing Christmas carols along the way. Tours every 45 minutes between 5-8 p.m.; by reservation only. UPDATE: Spots on these tours are full; names are being added to a waiting list. 541-928-0911.

Candy Cane Express Train Ride | 1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m., Dec. 19 and 20, 2015. Take your kids for a ride on the Candy Cane Express with Santiam Excursion Trains. Details: Candy Cane Express

Shopping: Find unique gifts for the folks on your list when you visit Albany! Browse through charming shops in downtown Albany, and find great seasonal specials at Heritage Mall throughout December.

Still to come: the Whitespires Christmas Eve Sing-a-Long and more! Check back for next week’s events and check our full event calendar for additional holiday happenings.

Photo: Christmas Storybook Land by Ann Kinkley


Need a place to stay in Albany for the holidays? Have friends and family coming to town? Check out Albany’s hotels, B&Bs, and RV Parks for holiday rates.

 

Albany Holiday Events: Nov. 30-Dec. 6, 2015

horizontal-Christmas-in-Albany-by-Dan-Bateman

Albany is the perfect place to celebrate an Oregon Christmas. This friendly little town goes all-out during the holiday season, with historic homes decked in lights, great seasonal boutiques, community parades, and plenty of ways to experience the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas.

Here are our top picks for the first week of the holiday season, Nov. 30-Dec. 6, 2015. For even more things to do in Albany, Oregon, visit our full event calendar.


Holiday Light Contest: Do you go all-out when it comes to Christmas decorating? Do you know someone who does? Nominate yourself (or your friends or neighbors) for a prize in our annual Night-Time Magic Holiday Light Contest. Nomination deadline: Dec. 7, 2015. Details: 2015 Albany Holiday Light Contest.

Christmas Storybook Land opens: This beloved holiday tradition transports visitors to a winter wonderland full of Christmas trees, toy trains, fairy tale scenes, and a chance to visit with Santa Claus himself. Storybook Land runs from Dec. 4-18, 2015.

Pioneer Christmas Party: Bring your kids to the Monteith House and celebrate like it’s 1859. Kids will learn what a pioneer Christmas in Albany would have been like, and will have a chance to ride in a horse-drawn wagon in the Downtown Twice Around Christmas Parade at 5 p.m. Party starts at 3 p.m. and costs $15/child ($10 for additional siblings); call the Albany Visitors Association  at 541-928-0911 to reserve your child’s spot.

Downtown Twice Around Christmas Parade: Anyone can join in this zany Christmas parade, which circles downtown Albany twice. Expect to see horse-drawn wagons, holiday lights, an umbrella-twirling brigade, and more. The only rule: the parade has just one Santa Claus, arriving at the end of the procession! Parade starts at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015. Details: Downtown Twice Around Christmas Parade.

Albany Community Tree Lighting: Immediately after the Christmas parade, gather in the parking lot at Two Rivers Mall (corner of second and Ferry) to sing carols and light the community Christmas tree. (Approximately 6 p.m., Dec. 6, 2015).

Shopping: Get your holiday shopping off to a good start this week with the Town & Country Christmas Bazaar, Dec. 4-6; Christmas at the Roost, Dec. 4-5 and 11-12, Pumpkin Hollow Christmas at the Mill, weekends through Dec. 20; charming shops in downtown Albany, and great seasonal specials at Heritage Mall throughout December.

Visits with Santa: The big guy in red will be at Heritage Mall every day throughout the holiday season for visits with children and Christmas photos. Special dates this week include kids’ storytimes with Santa Dec. 1 and pet photos with Santa Dec. 6 & 13.

Still to come: 36th Annual Christmas Parlour Tour on Dec. 13, the Holiday Nosh Tour Dec. 19, and more! Check back for next week’s events and check our full event calendar for additional holiday happenings.


Need a place to stay in Albany for the holidays? Have friends and family coming to town? Check out Albany’s hotels, B&Bs, and RV Parks for holiday rates.

Albany’s Night Time Magic Holiday Light Contest 2015

Albany Christmas pix

Once again, the Albany Visitors Association is helping to make the holiday season bright by sponsoring the 28th Annual Night Time Magic Holiday Light Program. Residents are encouraged to enter a contest (or submit your friends and neighbors) for best use of lights in decorating the exterior of their homes.

Three winners will be selected to win great prizes and one will be awarded the “Best Neighborly Effort.” Winners will be entitled to bragging rights for the entire year, and one of three fabulous prizes as determined by the prize committee. Be a part of Historic Albany’s magic!

The contest theme is “Holiday Night Time Magic.”
Participants are encouraged to share the source for their inspiration such as:

  • A family tradition…
  •  A favorite holiday book, movie or special…
  • Music, dance or art as inspiration…
  • A special collection…
  • Just Lights, Lights and more Lights…
  • Or another favorite idea or inspiration.

Contest Rules:

  1.  Entries must be within the city limits of Albany.
  2. Homeowners are encouraged to use lights to illuminate their decorations.
  3. Lights need to be on from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. December 1 – January 1st
  4. Entries for “Best Neighborly Effort” must have three or more partners in a concentrated area.
  5. Entry/Nomination Deadline: 5:00 pm on December 7, 2015.
  6. Decorations can be any style and lights can be white, clear or colored.

How to enter: Entry forms can be picked up and turned in at the Albany Visitors Association: 110 3rd Ave SE, Albany, OR 97321. You can also click here to request an entry form by e-mail.

Deadlines: Entry/nomination deadline is 5 p.m. Dec. 7, 2015. Winners will be announced by December 15th and presentations made soon after.

Touring Albany’s lights: People wishing to drive or walk through the town to look at the participating locations can pick up a list of participants and a map at the Albany Visitors Association beginning December 15. Lights will be on through January 1, 2015.

A special thanks to Burcham’s Metals for helping to make the season bright. Thank you to all the homeowners who participate in this program, without your efforts this wonderful community tradition would not be possible.

Photo: by Dan Bateman

Wine Country Thanksgiving: where to taste near Albany, Oregon

Marks Ridge Harvest Time by Gary Thurman

Marks Ridge Harvest Time by Gary Thurman

In Oregon, local winemakers observe a tradition called Wine Country Thanksgiving — it’s a chance for vintners to toast the end of another successful harvest by throwing open their doors and celebrating with family and friends.

Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Albany makes a perfect home base for wine touring.

Choose from 30 Thanksgiving 2015 events at wineries within 30 miles of Albany!


Wineries in Albany

Springhill Cellars | 2920 NW Scenic Drive, Albany | 541-928-1009 | Nov. 28-30, 2015, 11:30-5:30 p.m. Join Springhill’s 25th annual harvest celebration, the Federweisser Festival. Sample Federweisser, a German-style wine, along with Pinor noir and other Springhill wines; feast on German bratwurst from Pepper Tree Sausage House; and join in an old-fashioned barn dance on Saturday evening.

Wineries East of Albany

Marks Ridge Winery | 28 miles east of Albany | 29255 Berlin Rd., Sweet Home | 541-974-4457 | Nov. 21-22 and Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Enjoy new wines, home-made chili and fresh-baked bread at the Marks Ridge pre- and post-Thanksgiving open house weekends.

Wineries North of Albany

Treos Winery | 13 miles north of Albany | 10705 Airlie Rd., Monmouth | 503-610-3530 | Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Thanksgiving is your chance to visit this boutique winery, normally open only for private tastings.

Sass Winery | 15 miles north of Albany | 9092 Jackson Hill Rd. SE, Salem | 503-391-9991 | Nov. 27-29, 2015, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Taste new releases of pinot noir, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.

Willamette Valley Vineyards | 15.5 miles north of Albany | 8800 Enchanted Way, Turner | 50-588-9463 | Nov. 21-22. 2015 and Nov. 28-29 2015, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 21-22, enjoy an intimate tasting of library wines from milestone vintages in the cellar. Nov. 28-29, enjoy futures tasting of unreleased 2013 single vineyard designate Pinot noirs in the cellar (reservations required) or enjoy tasting flights and food pairings in the tasting room.

Emerson Vineyards | 16 miles north of Albany | 11665 Airlie Rd, Monmouth | 503-838-0944 | Nov. 21-22 2015 and Nov. 27-29, 2015. noon.-5 p.m.  Taste Emerson wines paired with a finger food buffet., and speak with wine experts who can help you select holiday wines.

Redgate Vineyard | 16 miles north of Albany | 8175 Buena Vista Rd, Independence | 503-428-7115 | Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Taste wine, listen to live blues music, and munch on appetizers at the Redgate Fieldhouse.

Ankeny Vineyard | 17.5 miles north of Albany | 2565 Riverside Dr. S., Salem | 503-378-1498 | Nov. 21-22 2015 and Nov. 27-29 2015. Noon-8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Noon-6 p.m. Sundays. Enjoy wine, appetizers, wood-fired pizza and house-made desserts. Live music Nov. 21 and 28 beginning at 5 p.m.

Coria Estates | 17.5 miles north | 8252 Redstone Ave SE, Salem | 503-363-0525 | Nov. 28-29 2015, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Come to Coria Estates for barrel tastings, wine flights, food, and live music.

Trinity Vineyards | 17.5 miles north | 1031 Wahl Lane S., Salem | 503-371-6977 | Nov. 28-29, 2015 noon-5 p.m. Taste new releases from this family-owned vineyard at their Thanksgiving Open House.

Airlie Winery | 22.5 miles north of Albany | 15305 Dunn Forest Rd, Monmouth | 503-838-6013 | Nov. 21-22 2015 and Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Enjoy food and wine pairings, including hard-to-find Marechel Foch and first-ever semi-sparkling Riesling.

Honeywood Winery | 24 miles north of Albany | 1350 Hines St, Salem. | 503-362-4111 | Nov. 20-21 2015 and Nov. 27-29 2015. Oregon’s oldest producing winery. Enjoy light bites, wine cocktails and free wine tasting from 5-7 p.m. Nov. 20; shop for specialty holiday gifts with a glass of wine in hand, noon-5 p.m. Nov. 27-29.

Eola Hills Wine Cellars | 25 miles north of Albany | 501 S. Pacific Hwy. W, Rickreall | 503-623-2405 | Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., brunch Sundays. Special events this week include a Thanksgiving Feast Brunch Nov. 22, a Civil War Brunch Nov. 27, and Thanksgiving Harvest Fest Nov. 27-29.

Piluso Vineyard | 25 miles north of Albany | 6654 Shaw Hwy SE, Aumsville | 503-749-4125 | Nov. 27-29 2015, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Enjoy light food pairings and holiday specials.

Illahe Vineyard | 27 miles north of Albany | 3275 Ballard Rd., Dallas | 503-831-1248 | Sat. Nov. 21 2015 11-5, Nov. 27-29, 11-5. On. Nov. 21, taste through limited releases paired with artisan cheeses and charcuterie. Nov. 27-29, taste through limited Estate Pinot Noirs and Estate Riesling paired with local wood-fired bread and artisan cheeses.

Orchard Heights Winery| 28 miles north of Albany | 6057 Orchard Heights Rd., Salem | 503-391-7308| Open daily; Thanksgiving special Nov. 27-28 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. With a $10 tasting fee, receive wine tasting, complimentary wine glass, bowl of soup, and bread.

Cubanisimo Vineyards | 30 miles north of Albany | 1754 Best Rd. NW, Salem | 503-588-1763 | Open daily; Thanksgiving event Nov. 27-29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate Thanksgiving at Cubanisimo with wine tasting, new releases, live music, Cuban-style tapas, and football.

Kathken Vineyards | 30 miles north of Albany | 5739 Orchard Heights Rd. NW, Salem | 503-316-3911 | Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Sample wines from a small, family-owned vineyard.

Cherry Hill Winery | 30 miles north of Albany | 7867 Crowley Rd., Rickreall | 503-623-7867 | Nov. 27-29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy spectacular views and hors d’oeuvres along with wines from estate-grown fruit.

Redhawk Winery | 30 miles north of Albany | 2995 Michigan City Ave. NW, Salem | 503-362-1596 | Nov. 21-22 and Nov. 27-29 2015, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Barrel tasting, live music and food, including home-made butternut squash soup.

Evesham Wood Winery | 30 miles north of Albany | 3795 Wallace Rd NW, Salem | 503-371-8478 | Nov. 21-22, noon-4 p.m. Taste several single-vineyard Pinots along with great hors d’oevres and cheeses.

Wineries West of Albany

Pheasant Court Winery + The Wine Vault tasting room | 17 miles west of Albany| 1301 Main St., Philomath | 541-929-8496 | Nov. 20-22 2015 and Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. In additional to regular tastings of 10 different varietals, Nov. 21 4-7 p.m. is a release party for Pheasant Court’s artist label wine. Artist Tina Fels will be on hand to talk about her work.

Spindrift Cellars | 17 miles west of Albany | 810 Applegate St., Philomath | 541-929-6555 | Nov. 21-22 2015, noon-5 p.m. Come enjoy new release wines, a sweet wine flight, light food, holiday shopping, and case specials.

Lumos Wine | 22.5 miles west of Albany | 24000 Cardwell Hill Dr., Philomath | 541-929-3519 | Nov. 27-29 2015, 1-6 p.m. Taste wines in the “big ol’ barn” on the winemakers’ family farm, only open to the public a few times a year. Enjoy beautiful vineyard views, snacks, and wine.

Cardwell Hill Cellar | 23.5 miles west of Albany | 24241 Cardwell Hill Dr., Philomath | 541-929-WINE | Open daily noon-5:30; special events Nov. 20-22 and 27-29, 2015. Enjoy pre-Thanksgiving special value wines Nov. 20-22; come be a part of Cardwell Hill’s traditional Thanksgiving open house Nov. 27-29.

Harris Bridge Vineyard, 25 miles west of Albany | 22937 Harris Rd., Philomath | 541-929-3053 | Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Live music, snacks, special library flights, free gift wrapping, and walks to the historic covered bridge on-site.

Wineries South of Albany

Tyee Wine Cellar | 21 miles south of Albany | 26335 Greenberry Rd., Corvallis | 541-753-8754 | Nov. 20-22 2015 and Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Pre-Thanksgiving weekend, enjoy discounts on new releases available exclusively in the tasting room, and sample new releases and special treats. Nov. 27-29, join Tyee in celebrating 30 Years as a winery, 40 plus years a vineyard and 130 years a family farm. Taste new releases, special treats, and Willamette Valley cheeses.

Broadley Vineyard | 28 miles south of Albany | 265 S. 5th St., Monroe | 541-857-5934 | Nov. 21-22 and Nov. 27-29, 2015, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For the pre-Thanksgiving weekend, enjoy barrel sampling of the 2015 vintage. Nov. 27th-29, enjoy savory appetizers and 2015 barrel samples.

Benton-Lane Winery | 30 miles south of Albany | 23924 Territorial Hwy, Monroe | 541-847-5792 | open daily, special events Nov. 27-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Relax in the barrel room while tasting a special flight alongside artisan meat and cheese and listening to Christmas music; Nov. 28-29 only, enjoy wood-fired pizzas from the Benton-Lane pizza oven.

Tebri Vineyards | 30 miles south of Albany | 24880 Orchard Tract Rd., Monroe | 541-740-8541 | Nov. 28-29 2015, noon-5 p.m. Enjoy wine, music, food, and shopping at this beautiful vineyard and lavender farm.


 

Need a place to stay after wine tasting all day? Browse our lodging listings and find a welcoming place to stay in Albany, Oregon.

 

Ghost touring in historic Albany

small-Halloween-Faces-by-Kathy-HawthorneLooking for a fun and spooky historical experience? Choose from two options this October: a ride on the Trolley of Terror followed by a candlelit ghost tour of the Monteith House Museum; or a VIP ghost-hunting experience at the Monteith House. Both are sponsored by the Monteith Historical Society.

Trolley of Terror and candlelit ghost tour: The Monteith House is the oldest building in Albany, and was built in 1849. Through the years, ghost stories have been shared about this building, but very few people have had a chance to hear the stories from the inside of its walls, and even fewer have had a chance to seek out the spirits that dwell within. Take a ride on the Trolley of Terror followed by a candlelit ghost tour to hear the ghost stories of downtown Albany and those of the Monteith House that have chilled its inhabitants to the bone.

Ghost hunting: A separate tour — a VIP ghost hunt experience — will take place on Friday, October 30, from 9 p.m. to midnight. The VIP experience is limited to 10 people. VIPs will be joined by experienced paranormal investigators and learn how to use various pieces of ghost hunting equipment. VIPs will then get to help conduct a paranormal investigation of the Monteith House.

Details: The Trolley of Terror will take place on October 23, 24, and 30. Tours on October 23 and 24 will begin at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Tours on October 30 will begin at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., with the VIP experience beginning at 9 p.m. and running until midnight.

Tickets: The cost of the Trolley of Terror and candlelit ghost tour is $10 per adult and $5 per child. The VIP experience is $25 per person. Reservations are highly recommended as space is limited. Call the Albany Visitors Association at 541-928-0911 to reserve your seats today.

Photo: “Halloween Faces” by Kathy Hawthorne

Fall Craft Brew Events in Albany

Beer, cider, food, and fun- find it all at one of Albany’s fall craft beer events! The central Willamette Valley is home to dozens of craft breweries, distilleries, and cider houses.  Enjoy them all at these great events happening throughout autumn.

555494_407804072601383_657835118_n1) 4th Annual Craft Brew Smackdown, Friday, September 18th, 2015

Enjoy Downtown Albany as you sip delicious brews from up to 25 breweries and cider houses.  For just $20, you’ll receive an event mug, 10 tasting tickets, and a Sip Trip Passport.  If you collect 10 stamps, you’ll be entered to win the grand prize.  After the Smackdown, head to Calapooia Brewing for the after party.  All guests will receive a free trip through Paul’s Amazing Taco Bar.

Tickets for the Craft Brew Smackdown can be purchased from The Historic Carousel & Museum.  Same-day tickets and glasses will be available at the Carousel, as well as the Albany Visitors Association.  For additional tasting tickets, stop by the Pix Theater or The Growler Garage.

This event is located on 2nd and 3rd Avenues, between Washington and Lyon in downtown Albany, and will run from 3 pm to 8 pm.

11880536_677418099026642_2336880698854623701_n2) Deluxe Brewing’s 2 Year Anniversary Party & Chili Cook-Off, Sunday, September 20th, 2015

It’s been two years since Albany’s Deluxe Brewing opened it’s doors, and they’re celebrating with a party and chili cook-off! The party starts at noon and ends at 6 p.m., with the chili judging to be held at 3 p.m.. There will be three categories for the judging; red, non-red, and vegetarian.

There will also be drink specials, raffles, giveaways, and more at this celebration. Minors will be welcome on the patio and in the main brewing area, but not in the tasting room.  For more information about this event, please email the brewery at info@sinisterdeluxe.com.

mikkiyogabeer_calapooia_septemberflyer

3) Yoga + Beer with Mikki Trowbridge, Monday, September 21st, 2015 

Join expert yoga instructor, Mikki Trowbridge, for a fun night of yoga and a delicious beer at Calapooia Brewing.  The class is suitable for all levels, and lasts 75 minutes.  Pre-registration is encouraged, and can be completed online.  For $15, participants will be able to participate in the class, and will receive their first pint for free. The class starts at 6 p.m. and ends at 7:15. 

Can’t make it in September? Mikki will be back on Tuesday, November 10th, at Deluxe Brewing.  Whether you attend one or both, you’ll be glad you went!


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Mid-Valley Brewfest, Saturday, October 17th, 2015

Another great downtown event, the Mid-Valley Brewfest features over 20 breweries, and all proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Albany.  Admission is $12, and you’ll receive a Brewfest Mug and a tasting ticket.  Additional tasting tickets will be available for $1 each.

Worried about missing the football games? Both the Ducks and Beavers games will be available to watch, adding some extra fun and competition to the event.

Stop by Water Avenue, between Ferry and Broadalbin, starting at noon, to take part in the Brewfest.

Each event provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy local beer, cider, and spirits, and are perfect ways to ease the transition from summer to fall.  If you’d like to turn your trip into a weekend stay, take a look at our lodging page for information about hotels, campgrounds, and more.

For more upcoming events, please visit our monthly events calendar.

Mid-valley 4th of July Celebrations

Photo by Cathy Flowers

Have a fun-filled Fourth of July by attending any of these events being held in Albany and its surrounding areas.

Albany

River Rhythms Concert and Fireworks Show, Thursday, July 2

Start your 4th of July celebrations a little early this year by attending the first River Rhythms Concert of the season.  The concert features the soulful-rock band, Jelly Bread, and is followed by a spectacular fireworks show over the river.  The music starts at 7 p.m., and is free for everyone.

Lumberjack Breakfast, 6-11 a.m., July 2-5

Get ready for your 4th of July festivities with an all-you-can-eat breakfast in Timber-Linn Park, hosted by the East Albany Lions Club. Entry costs $7 per adult, and $4 for children 12 and under.  All proceeds benefit Lions Club charities.

Brownsville

Pancake Breakfast, 7-10 a.m., July 4

Hosted by the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, the annual Pancake Breakfast is a 4th of July tradition you don’t want to miss. For just $7 per adult, or $4 per child, you can eat as much food as possible, and spend the day exploring historic Brownsville.

BBQ, Beer Garden, and Music, 5:30 p.m., July 4

In the afternoon, head to Randy’s Main Street Coffee for a delicious BBQ and live music.  There will be a beer garden, hosted by Kirk’s Ferry Trading Post, opening at 4 p.m., followed by the BBQ at 5:30.  Music starts at 6 p.m., and is free to all customers.

Fireworks in the Park, after dusk, July 4

Just after sunset, pay a visit to Pioneer Park to watch a spectacular fireworks show over the Calapooia River. The show is one of the best around, and is completely free.

Find details about Brownsville at www.historicbrownsville.com

Corvallis 

Red, White, and Blue Riverfront Festival, all day, July 3-4

This downtown Corvallis festival is a great way to spend Independence Day. With live music, crafts, kids’ activities, great food, and local wine and microbrews, there is something for everyone to take part in as they wait for the sun to set.

Corvallis Jaycees Fireworks Show, after dusk, July 4

Watch beautiful fireworks burst over the Willamette River from your seat at the downtown riverfront.  The show is free for everyone.

Harrisburg

Harrisburg July 4th CelebrationJuly 4

Harrisburg puts on its biggest event of the year on the 4th of July, and this year’s celebration is no exception! Events include food, games, a parade and fireworks over the Willamette River. Parade begins at 11 a.m., and fireworks are at dusk (about 9:30 p.m.) in Riverside Park. (Click the link above for schedule and details).

LebanonFireworks at Cheadle Lake by Nancy Hunt

Star-Spangled Celebration, 6-10:30 p.m., July 4

Pack your picnic basket and pay a visit to Lebanon’s Cheadle Lake Park for a family-friendly 4th of July event. There will be plenty to do, including great food, games, live performances, and more.The firework show starts at 10 p.m., and the entry fee is $10 per carload, or $3 for walk-in groups.

Photos by Cathy Flowers(upper) and Nancy Hunt(lower).

Do you know of any events we haven’t mentioned? Let us know by commenting below! 

 

 

 

 

Head for the Cascades this summer: Adventure Bus starts June 13

200px-Big-Lake,-Big-Sky,-Mt-Washington-by-Bill-Origer-2015-photo-contestThis summer, let someone else do the driving as you head to the Cascades for a day of adventure. Starting June 13, you can leave your car behind and hop on a bus for a day of hiking or biking in the mountains.

The All-Day Adventure Shuttle departs from the Sweet Home City Hall at 8 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays during its seven weekends of operation, making stops at popular recreation sites and trailheads on its way up into the mountains. It arrives at Clear Lake by 10 a.m. You can return the same day with the shuttle departing Clear Lake at 5 p.m., or you can camp overnight and take the Sunday shuttle back to the valley.

The shuttle is equipped with a bike trailer for travelers who want to bring a bike and ride the trails from Tombstone Pass to Clear Lake. Other Cascade adventures include hiking through stunning wildflower meadows at Iron Mountain, renting a rowboat and paddling the pristine waters of Clear Lake, staying in a rustic cabin at the Clear Lake Resort, or tent camping at dozens of picturesque spots in the Willamette National Forest.

The shuttle is $3 per person for a one-way trip and $5 round-trip. Kids 12 and under ride free with a parent or legal guardian.

The 2015 weekends of operation are:

  • June 13-14
  • June 27-28
  • July 11-12
  • July 25-26
  • August 8-9
  • August 22-23
  • September 5-6

Reservations for the adventure bus are encouraged and will be taken starting June 1st. Call the Linn Shuttle Monday-Friday at 541-367-4775 between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Need a place to stay overnight before you take off on your mountain adventure? Check out the comfortable hotels in the mid-valley area.

Photo: Big Lake and Mt. Washington in the Cascades of Linn County, by Bill Origer.

The Shuttle is an action of the Sweet Home Federal Lands Livability Initiative to improve the recreational opportunities along HWY 20 and is intended to increase accessibility for hikers and bikers by reducing vehicle pressure at trail heads and access points. Linn Shuttle, Linn County Parks, Anderson Automotive, Friends of Fish Lake, South Santiam All Lands Collaborative, & City of Sweet Home have worked to sponsor this project.

Grow a greener life: National Sustainability Fair comes to Albany

Mother Earth News Fair Albany Oregon

There’ll be a whole lot of sustainable goodness packed into one place next month when the Mother Earth News Fair brings national experts on self-sufficiency to the Linn County Fair & Expo Center. It’s planned for June 6-7, 2015, from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Interested in organic gardening and farming? They’ve got workshops on everything from suburban farmsteads to backyard bees and chickens.

Love cooking? You can learn to make your own cheese, butter and jams.

Are craft beer and spirits your thing? Take a class on home brewing, distilling, and fermenting.

Got kids? Attend hands-on classes with experts who can show them how to grow garden, churn butter, make bath salts, and more.

Even more workshops include talks on the tiny house movement, making your own biodiesel, poultry-processing, herbal remedies, foraging, and more.

Speakers from around the nation and around the valley include:

  • organic farmer and author Joel Salatin, who will define the characteristics shared by successful farmers, and give attendees a road map to success.
  • Portland forager John Kallas, who will teach how to identify, harvest and prepare wild plants found in your backyard.
  • Stephanie Tourles, licensed holistic aesthetician, certified aromatherapist and author, who will discuss organic body care and how to use natural oils in everyday body and facial products.
  • Portland-based cheesemaker Claudio Lucero, who will demonstrate how to make a simple farmers’ cheese with herbs and edible flowers in 30 minutes.
  • Jean-Martin Fortier, market gardener and author, who shares details, tools and technology he’s used to create a profitable, small-scale market garden.
  • Lyle Estill and Bob Armantrout, co-authors of Backyard Biodiesel, who will show how to make small-scale biodiesel form used fryer oil and how to put it into use in your home or on the farm.

In addition to workshops, you’ll find children’s activities; country skills, livestock and vendor demonstrations; hundreds of vendors; and local and organic food options. Check out the full list of workshops at the Oregon event.

The Oregon fair is the only Mother Earth News Fair in the Western U.S.; the highly popular series continues in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Kansas later this year.

Weekend wristband passes cost $25 in advance, or $30 at the gate. Children 17 and younger get in free. The event also offers a limited number of VIP tickets, which get you priority seating at workshops, catered meals, and other perks.

Need a place to stay while you’re in town for the Mother Earth News Fair? Click here to find a hotel near the fair.

For more info, check out www.MotherEarthNewsFair.com.

Six ways to celebrate your sweetie in Albany for Valentine’s Day 2015

Looking for something fun to do on Valentine’s Day 2015? We’ve got you covered. Look over our list of special celebrations in Albany, and you’ll find something that makes your heart go pitter-pat.

Idea #1: Get your heart racing

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  • Sweet Home Sweetheart Run: Do something good for your heart on Valentine’s Day –join the first annual Sweet Home Sweetheart Run. This fun run raises money for Sweet Home’s Parks & Recreation programs, and it starts and ends at the beautiful Weddle Covered Bridge in Sankey Park. More info: http://evrd.us/LBS+i

Frankie's Valentine saladIdea #2: A romantic dinner. You just can’t go wrong with this classic date idea–especially with mouth-watering meals like the ones happening in Albany this February 14, 2015:

  • Bo-Mack’s BBQ: This family-friendly barbecue favorite is offering their annual “Lover’s Delight” special on Valentine’s Day. The full meal includes delicious barbecue, beverages, salad, and Momma’s don’t-miss dessert. $40-50 for two. Offered Feb. 13-14.
  • Calapooia Brewery: Live music and a special Valentine’s menu — plus the ‘Pooia’s always-delicious craft beer — make this a can’t miss Valentine’s date spot.
  • The Flinn Steakhouse: Even more live music and great food in Albany! Award-winning blues musician Lloyd Jones is playing a special Valentine’s Day show at the Flinn Steakhouse. In addition to the regular menu, Flinn’s will offer duck confit, rack of lamb and other delicious specials. Dinner from 5-9 p.m., late-night menu from 9-11 p.m. Jones performs live from 8-11 p.m. Reservations recommended.
  • Frankie’s: The farm-to-table cookery at Frankie’s is always exquisite, and Valentine’s Day should be no exception. Chef Cody Utzman is planning a special four-course Valentine’s Day menu at Frankie’s for $70 per couple.
  • Mallard Creek Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Special: This beautiful golf resort in the countryside east of Albany is offering a Sweetheart Special–two entrees, two glasses of wine and a dessert to share, for $69 per couple. The entrees include slow-roasted tri-tip, braised short ribs, salmon, and more.
  • Marks Ridge Valentine Dinner at the Winery: Enjoy a delicious Valentine’s meal in the winery at Mark’s Ridge. Each course is paired with wines to complement the meal, topped off with dessert and coffee. Buffet dinner at 4pm, featuring Chef Debbie Groves & the Wines of Marks Ridge winery.Limited seating, Pre-paid reservations required.
  • Novak’s: The five-course Sweetheart Special at Novak’s Hungarian is available all weekend, from Friday Feb. 13-Sunday Feb. 15, and it includes traditional Hungarian delicacies you won’t find anywhere else. Paired with Malna (a non-alcoholic Hungarian drink made with organic raspberry syrup), it’s $59.99 per couple; paired with wine it’s $69.99 Reservations strongly encouraged.
  • Sweet Red: This downtown wine bistro is offering an extravagant 7-course Valentine menu that starts off with flaming (that’s right, flaming!) dates, and just gets better from there. Seatings at 5 p.m. or 7 p.m. Price is $50 per person.
  • Vault 244: Have you eaten at Vault 244 lately? Chef Kyle Kish (formerly of The Painted Lady in Newberg) does some amazing things in the kitchen. On Valentine’s Day, Vault 244 is offering a five-course Valentine’s dinner for $60. Reservation only. Good news if you’re meat-free–there’s a vegetarian option too.

Idea #3: Dance the night away

  • Sweetheart Dance Lessons: Do something different this year and take your sweetie out dancing. Heritage Mall and CJ’s Dance are offering dance lessons at Heritage Mall from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Swing, Waltz, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Country and more.

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Idea #4: A toast to love. Valentine’s weekend also happens to be a state-wide celebration of craft beer known as Zwickelmania, and breweries around the state are offering special events and tastings. We’ll drink to that!

  • Deluxe Brewing: Deluxe Brewing in downtown Albany will be offering tours every hour, the chance to meet the brewers, and tastes of their delicious lagers.
  • Mazama Brewing: Mazama Brewing, just off of Highway 34 in the western part of Linn County, is hosting brewery tours, tastes, and a special Valentine’s beer & chocolate flight in the tasting room.

Idea #5: Go see a show. Celebrate with a night at the theater–Albany has both live theater performances and cinema treasures to explore on Valentine’s Day.

  • The Pix: Enjoy a great movie with a glass of local wine or beer and house-made snacks at the Pix. Each winter this independent theater celebrates the best movies of the year with the Pix Oscar Blitz. On Valentine’s weekend, Oscar-nominated historical drama “The Imitation Game” starring Benedict Cumberbatch opens.
  • Regal Albany 7 Cinemas: If you want to sit back with a bucket of popcorn and see a just-released blockbuster, this 7-screen movie theater in the center of Albany is your best bet.
  • For the family: Take the whole family on a special outing to see Linn-Benton Community Theater’s children’s performance. The 40th annual children’s show is “Follow Coyote,” a coming-of-age story set in 1842 on the Oregon Trail. 2 p.m.
  • Albany Civic Theater: The Laramie Project. See an award-winning play together when you go see “The Laramie Project” at the Albany Civic Theater this Valentine’s Day. (Play contains mature themes; not appropriate for children).

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Idea #6: Celebrate a day late:

  • For procrastinators: The Feb. 14th Valentine’s Dinner at Sybaris Bistro is sold out, but you can still treat your sweetie to a meal by James Beard honoree Matt Bennett on Valentine’s weekend. Sybaris is offering their Valentine’s Menu again at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15. Four courses; $45 per person; $65 with wine pairings.

If you’ve got more great Valentine’s Day ideas to add to this list, we want to hear ’em! Leave a comment, send us an e-mail, or give us a call: 541-928-0911.