Get ready for Spooky Season!

October in Albany has everything from scary fun to family-friendly events. Choose the perfect pumpkin, get lost in a corn maze or press apples for some tangy cider. The crisp weather and colorful leaves invite us to get out and enjoy our beautiful city.
Trolley in front of Monteith House
Trolley of Terror by Amanda Pool

 

Trolley of Terror is back!  
Get ready for a hauntingly good time at the Monteith House, where history meets Halloween: Trolley Tours will be held at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m. on Oct. 20, 21, 27 and 28; Put on your walking shoes and journey through the eerie and mysterious history of downtown Albany on Ghost Walking Tours, which take place on Oct. 13 and 14, also at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m.; Expect spine-tingling tales and ghostly encounters at the VIP Experience Ghost Hunts on Oct. 21 and 28 from 11:30 p.m.-1 a.m.

Purchase tickets at MonteithHouse.com, or call 541-220-0421. 

Here are some other great October events to put on your list. Be sure to visit the AVA website to get more details on them as well:

1st Friday in Historic Downtown Albany
The theme for Oct. 6 is Fall Kickoff! Join downtown businesses for extended hours, food, drinks, promotions, sales and music. Be sure to stop by the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum where October’s theme is Halloween. So, get your costume ready and have some scary good fun for the whole family!

The Natty Dresser is holding a ladies trunk show with Pendleton Woolens. This will be a one-night-only opportunity to order from the Pendleton Women’s line. Plus, they will also have Pikolinos’ Shoe there offering ladies styles for special order.

Cider Pressing at Thompson’s Mills
Oct. 14 and 28, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited to help crush and press the apples and watch as golden cider flows from the press. Fresh cider is available for your donation to Thompson’s Mills Preservation Society. They will have storytelling for the younger ones and mill-themed gifts are available. Docents are on hand for mill tours – pack a lunch and make a day of it! Telephone the Mill for additional information at 541-491-3611. 

cider press
Thompson’s Mills Cider Press by Kristi Crawford

Downtown Halloween Character Hunt
Get an early start on Halloween by joining this fun activity for the whole family, put on by the Albany Downtown Association. The hunt begins Saturday, Oct. 14. Entries turned in by Sunday, Oct. 30, will be entered in a drawing to win a Movie Night Prize Basket featuring tickets to The Pix Theatre, theater candy, popcorn and more.

Trick or Treat Cruise Thru
Dress up and get in on the fun 1-3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 21, at Timber-Linn Memorial Park. REGISTRATION is required for this event and is due by Oct. 13. Cost is $5 per child for ages 1-12. There will be candy and goodies to collect along the way and some spooktacular decorations. The event is sponsored by Albany Parks & Recreation.

Loot by Oliver J. Anderson

Downtown Trick-or-Treating & Costume Contest
Celebrate Halloween in Downtown Albany with this FREE family-friendly event 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Just look for the orange and black balloons marking participating Albany Downtown Association member businesses. There’s a costume contest for the whole family as well. Enter by stopping by the photo station at the 1st Avenue Parklet near Ferry Street. Winners will be selected on Facebook.

Albany Farmers’ Market
It’s still open Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through November. Pick up fresh and local produce, baked goods, meat, flowers and more! 

Pumpkin patches and seasonal produce

For seasonal produce, pumpkin patches, corn mazes and other treats, here are some local farms you will enjoy:

Blunck Family Produce and Willow will have their pumpkin patch again this year. 4228 Springhill Dr. NW, 541-497-4533.

Bose Family Farm features a pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides and harvest decor. 35765 Cyrus Rd. NE. 

Grandpa’s Fresh Market carries pumpkins, melons, gourds, straw bales, cornstalk bundles and has hayrides on the weekends. 36483 Hwy 226, 541-928-8778.

Kenagy Family Farm has pumpkins, gourds, decorative corn, winter squash and corn stalks. 1650 North Nebergall Loop NE, 541-979-1490.

Midway Farms doesn’t have a pumpkin patch, but they do have pumpkins, winter squash and fresh-pressed apple cider. All of the farm’s products are gluten-free, and they have pumpkin bread and apple cake. 6980 Hwy. 20 NW, 541-740-6141. 

Our Top Ten Picks for A Safe and Festive Holiday

Historic home decorated for the holidays

Enjoy the holiday season in Albany this year with bountiful shopping ideas, dining adventures and playful activities geared to get you into the spirit.

Be sure to observe all Covid-19 restrictions when out and about at events or in businesses, including physical distancing and wearing a mask. Some businesses may have schedule changes based on a recent surge in the virus and subsequent “freeze,” so check here or at the individual business websites or Facebook pages for updated information.

Play find & seek and keep your traditions alive and well in Historic Albany, Oregon

Find your Favorite Porch and Seek Simpler Days gone by during the 2020 Annual Christmas Parlour Porch Tour: 2 to 7 p.m., Dec. 13 – A dozen historic homes around Albany will have their porches decorated and lights glowing for the annual tour. Drive or walk past the homes, many of which will be participating in the Night Time Magic Holiday Light Contest (vote for your favorite!), and soak up the holiday spirit. While touring, also take part in a raffle for prizes. Details on tickets and the contest will be available in this posting on the AVA website prior to the tour, so stay tuned. There will be no cost for the event, but participants are encouraged to make donations. The tour is a fundraiser for the Monteith Historical Society, which uses the money for maintenance and operation of the Monteith House, the oldest frame home in Albany.

Seek Holiday Scene window displays for a great family photo opp. Storybook Land is scattered around 6 downtown windows this year which are also serving as a food-drive event for Fish of Albany food pantry. Bring non-perishable, commercially packaged food items for Fish, and stroll through downtown for window after window of beautiful holiday scenes. Find all 6 Storybook Land scenes and post on their FB page to enter a drawing for fun prizes.

Find Your Spirits cider and craft brews. Albany is bursting with quality beverages to cozy up to on a cold winter night or share with your household to bring much delight. Sinister Distilling, Vivacity Spirits, Calapooia Brewing Co., Deluxe Brewing, No Rails Ale House and Growler Garage & Tap House are ready to pour-yours-to-go and send you on your merry way. Springhill Cellars Winery offers carry out for a perfect pairing with any meal.

Seek a shining star and consider supporting your local theaters and buying gift cards from the Pix Theatre or tickets to Albany Civic Theater, during this season of giving. We rely on them to bring us the entertainment we crave and one of these days we’ll be back in the seats of our favorite venues.

Find your Farmer at Albany Farmers’ Holiday Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dec. 12, 4th Avenue and Ellsworth Street – More than 20 vendors will be selling locally grown agricultural products for your holiday table! Midway Farms on Hwy 20 is open all year long with a cooperative collection of locally grown produce, cheese, eggs, meats, plants, jellies, pickles and sauces. Supporting your farmer in the off season is sure to bring you good cheer and a bigger bounty in the new year.

Seek Locally Crafted at markets and bazaars following guidelines for safety.

Peoria Road Farm Market Holiday Craft Bazaar: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21, 33269 Peoria Rd, Corvallis, 541-207-3327 – Shop for holiday decor, candles, jewelry, and more at the 7th Annual Peoria Road Farm Market Holiday Bazaar. They will be taking every precaution to keep visitors safe while enjoying a great day of shopping. Masks will be required.

Albany Holiday Gift Vendor Bender: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 28, Best Western Prairie Inn, 1100 Price Rd. SE, Albany; Contact: cristiehanson71@gmail.com – Find handmade crafts and merchandise from local direct sales businesses at this new holiday event at the lovely Best Western Prairie Inn. COVID-19 safety protocols will be observed. Shop safe and local.

Christmas at the Roost/Vintage Roost: 935 Scenic Dr. NW. This vintage barn is filled with antiques, collectibles, handmade gifts with a vintage charm by local crafters, baked goods and more! Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 4-5; 1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 6 and Dec. 11-12; and 1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 13. Due to Covid restrictions, capacity of the shop is 10 persons at any one time, and masks are required. There will be several areas outside to shelter while waiting to enter. Warm refreshments will be served as you wait, including The Roost’s famous hot cranberry tea. Dress for the weather. Parking is available on Scenic Drive.

Ropp Family Farm Christmas Barn: 35746 Eicher Rd SE. preview night this Thursday, November 19th from 5-7pm for shopping, snacks & giveaways, and only for a $10 entry. Doors will open for regular shopping Friday & Saturday from 9am to 4pm. No entry fee required. Open for business each weekend thru Saturday December 5th.

Find your Tree  at Toland Tree Farm  (closed for the season) following guidelines, trees will all be PRE-CUT fresh weekly and ready to choose from -No You Cut. Limited number of cars will be allowed in the parking lot and the number of customers on the farm at one time. So please be patient and remember, Santa is watching. Check revised hours and consider making a weekday appointment by connecting directly.

From Doug Firs, Noble Firs, Nordman Firs and even Grand Firs, Vollstedt Farms has trees of all shapes and sizes available. Opening day is November 21st with face masks and physical distancing required. Extended hours are in place. The front patch will be open for u-cut. Trees from the back patch will be brought up as pre-cut. Please limit the family group to 3-4 people. Unfortunately wagon rides, places where people congregate, and dogs are out and no foot traffic is allowed on the road. The good news is tree prices will be down.

Christmas tree permits for the Willamette National Forest are available for the Sweet Home, Middle Fork, and parts of the Detroit and McKenzie River Ranger Districts. Permits are available online  and by calling the respective ranger district offices. Tree permits will not be sold in person at any ranger districts or offices. Please check closure maps before entering the forest and remain outside any of the closed areas. Permits are $5.00 each. They allow the holder to cut one tree in designated areas; each household can purchase up to a maximum of five permits. This year, trees can be as tall as 15 feet.

Seek your Ornament during the Third Annual Ornament Hunt on non-wilderness trails of the Willamette National Forest launched on November 13, 2020. The hunt encourages locals and travelers to connect with public lands and increase outdoor recreation activities. One hundred and fifty ornaments have been hidden along non-wilderness trails that have not been affected by wildfires for lucky adventurers to find. Three different wooden ornaments, each featuring a fun-loving forest creature, are spread across trails in the Willamette National Forest and the Umpqua National Forest. Each one found includes a Willamette Valley leather patch and instructions on how to register to win a prize. Find and register all three and you will be eligible to win an adventure and overnight stay in the Willamette Valley. For more information visit their website.

Find the Perfect Gift on Small Business Saturday and all the way through Christmas, Shop Small & Dine Small kicks off Saturday, Nov. 28 but why stop then? Shop small and save big on unique gifts over the Thanksgiving weekend and beyond. This may mean locally online – see your favorite store’s Website or Facebook page for their most up to date offerings you can find them listed here. Local businesses are pulling out all the stops with amazing specials and deals designed to help you get just the right gift for friends and family. Remember to support your local artist on Artist Sunday and all year long with places like Crow’s Foot, Gallery Calapooia and the Carousel Gift Shop, or find your inner artist at Surefire Design and Splatterbox.

While working up an appetite shopping, downtown restaurants will be ready to offer a wonderful selection of food and drink to keep you going. For an updated list of restaurants, who is offering take out and delivery and what kind of menu to expect, click here.

Seek your Favorite Holiday Lights during the Night Time Magic Holiday Light Contest: The 33rd annual event kicks off Dec. 7. Perhaps more than ever, people need a little more light to brighten their lives and lift their spirits. So, put your best lighted foot forward and enter the contest or visit all of the entries to enjoy how creative and beautiful the houses are and then vote for your favorite.

Contestants will be judged on the best use of lights in decorating the exterior of their homes. The winners will enjoy bragging rights for the entire year and will receive some great prizes, including a Party Room Rental provided by the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum, a night at Comfort Suites-Albany, Pizza from Southpaws and gift certificates from local stores.

This year’s theme is “Cherished Traditions in a New Light” and participants are asked to share the source for their inspiration, such as: a family tradition, favorite holiday book, movie or special, music, dance, art or a special collection using lights, lights and more lights.

The contest will be judged by the public this year through online voting, and lights need to be on 5 to 10 p.m. Dec. 7 through Jan. 1.

Go here for contest rules and entry information and how to vote.

People wishing to drive the route to look at the participating locations can pick up a list of participants and a map at the Albany Visitors Association beginning Dec. 10 or download the Albany Explorer app.

Keeping Traditions alive in 2020 can be more difficult for many facing hardships and loss. Please consider sharing your good fortune and cheer with others to lift them up along with your own holiday spirits and you will in turn help bring about a brighter new year for all. Here’s to ringing in 2021 with Peace, Love and Hope for a better tomorrow.

Get ready for the Third Annual Willamette Valley Quilt Festival

It’s not too early to plan ahead for the most popular winter quilt show in Oregon, as the Willamette Valley Quilt Festival arrives on January 31 and February 1, 2020, at the Linn County Expo Center.

A show patterned from innovation

Photo of a Quilt from the 2019 Willamette Valley Quilt FestivalAs Americans, we possess a rich legacy of quilt-making and design, so it’s not surprising quilt festivals have become increasingly popular over the last decade. Quilts are complex works of colorful folk art, as mysterious as a corn-maze — and festivals are the perfect place to showcase local talent.

Several years ago, two Albany business owners teamed up to plan a winter quilt show. The Rich family (of Rich’s Sewing & Vacuum) and their staff, and the owners of Albany’s Bolts to Blocks (Barb and Pete Schoonover), launched the first Willamette Valley Quilt Festival in 2018. Their idea was to hold the event during the rainy season and provide quilt designers a creative outlet to counteract the mid-winter blues.

Last year’s quilt festival was a rousing success and attracted thousands of visitors to the Linn County Expo Center. There were over 300 quilts on display and a wide assortment of vendors, classes and demonstrations.

At the 2020 show (January 31st through February 1st) the number of vendors has once again increased and will include booths filled with tools, machines, handcrafted items such as handbags and scarves, quilting kits and templates, fabric, clothing, home decor and, of course, an amazing gallery of quilts.

Quilt contest

Photo of a a couple of quilts hanging up at the Willamette Valley Quilt FestivalThe quilt contest portion of the show will interest art and craft lovers, whether they sew or not. Wide aisles beckon with a cornucopia of pattern. Quilts of all sizes reflect the imagination of their creators. You’ll  even be able to vote for your favorite, if you can decide which you like best.

A $3,000 Babylock Soprano sewing machine will be awarded as the contest’s grand prize. The “Mayor’s Choice Award” from Albany Mayor Sharon Konopa and the Albany Visitors Association will be filled with goodies like wine from Springhill Cellars Winery and gift certificates to local restaurants and businesses.

Classes and demonstrations

Whether you are an experienced quilter or just starting out, workshops will be offered throughout Friday and Saturday at the main festival location (Linn County Expo Center). Instruction topics include using Oregon-made templates by Westalee, ruler work, embroidery, quilt design and laser-cut appliqué.

On Thursday, January 30, a special pre-show workshop will be taught by the festival’s 2020 Featured Quilter, Sheila Sinclair Snyder, owner of Licensed to Quilt in Junction City, Oregon. Snyder will guide participants in creating quilt paintings on rustic barn wood. The workshop will be held at Bolts to Blocks new location, 950 SE Geary, Suite C, in Albany.

All classes require pre-registration; contact Rich’s Sewing & Vacuum of Albany to reserve your space. (See contact information in the “What to know if you go” section.)

Demonstrations and presentations conducted throughout the main expo hall are free with paid admission.

What to know if you go

Photo of a quilt hanging up at the Willamette Valley Quilt ShowThe 2020 Willamette Valley Quilt Festival will be held 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, January 31 and February 1. The event is inside the main exhibit hall at the Linn County Expo Center, 3700 Knox Butte Rd. in Albany, Oregon. Admission is $7, parking is free. Tickets may be purchased at the show or pre-paid online.

Pre-show activities on Thursday, January 30th and workshops on Friday and Saturday require registration. Contact Rich’s Sewing & Vacuum in Albany for workshop pricing and times. For more information telephone 541-926-4842.

Staying over 

If you are traveling to the show and plan to spend the night, get a special Albany Visitors Association rate with our featured hotels, the Best Western Plus Prairie Inn or Quality Inn & Suites by asking for the “AVA Rate” when reserving your room.

Best Western Plus Prairie Inn 541-928-5050

Quality Inn & Suites 541-928-0921

For other great choices, connect to our website’s “Sweet Dreams” lodging directory.

Food and fun 

Photo of a red and white quilt at the Willamette Valley Quilt ShowWhile at the show, enjoy delicious food truck selections from Grindz Hawaiian, Natalie’s Mexi-Kart, Dajoy’s Kettle Korn and Double J BBQ. An onsite espresso bar and catered kitchen selections will be operating within the main exhibit hall.

For ideas about where to meet friends for dinner after the show, make sure to visit the Albany Visitors Association booth in the main exhibit hall. We’ll have restaurant guides, city maps and everything you need for a great night or two on the town. We can also help you find places for breakfast and brunch, desserts and more. Check our “Spirited Cuisine” page for a full list.

You can also download the “Albany Explorer App” for iPhone or Android. Simply search for the Albany Explorer App in Google Play or Apple App Stores. The app is jam-packed with fun things to do.

And no trip to Albany is complete without a fun-filled visit to the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum. Ride tokens are $2 each and admission is free.

We also recommend stopping by the Albany Regional Museum and Monteith House Museum to learn more about Oregon pioneer history and the local culture, and take a self-guided tour through one of our four National Historic Districts. Visit our “Dive Into History” web page for more information on Albany’s historic roots.

See you at the show!

Get your Trolley of Terror tickets

Photo showing candle light tour of the Monteith House during the Trolley of Terror in Albany, Oregon

Back by popular demand, the Monteith Society is once again hosting a fun and spooky historical experience this October: a candlelit tour of the Monteith House Museum and ride on the 2019 Trolley of Terror; sponsored by the Monteith Historical Society.

Climb aboard the vintage spookily decorated trolley and hear stories from Albany’s past as you ride through the Historic District’s “haunted” places. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the inside story on Albany’s historic haunted homes and businesses. Tours begin at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm on October 18th,19th, 25th and 26th.

Ticket info

The Trolley of Terror sells out every year almost a month ahead so be ready to pounce on your preferred date. Telephone AVA, beginning Thursday, September 19th, at 541-928-0911 or stop by our office Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (110 3rd Ave SE) and pay for your tickets in person. Only pre-paid tickets will hold your reservation. You can securely pay over the phone with us using a credit or debit card. We use PayPal to process payment.

Ticket pricing Adults, $12. Children 12 and under, $6.

VIP Gost Hunt

And for the adults only, don’t forget to ask about the VIP Ghost Hunt. Very limited availability, super popular. This is where you get to follow professional “ghostbusters” as they set up their equipment at Monteith House during the witching hours of the night!

Ticket pricing Adults, $55. There are no discounts for children as this may not be appropriate for most kids. It requires staying up late (past midnight), hunting ghosts, discussion on hauntings and over a four-hour activity.

September is Simply Spectacular

Photo of a horse standing in a filed with buckskin (tan and black) coloration

If you thought Albany and Linn County slowed down to a crawl once school started, think again! We figured you’d like to know about several September events coming your way—and we’ve highlighted a few below. We add to this list throughout the month, so check back regularly and you might discover a few more that you just can’t miss.

Sept 6th – First Friday Downtown Albany

Get in on extended hours fun at your favorite Albany shops, restaurants, galleries and more. It’s time for First Friday in September, and here’s a few of the highlights:

  • Natty Dresser’s 5th Birthday Bash Come by the store and share a piece of birthday cake, a little sparkling wine, and live music by Lonna Capaci. You can start planning your own white-tie “Downton Abbey” movie attire—Oscar and his staff can help you with a haute haberdashery special.
  • Family Night at the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum For $5 per person admission, you’ll receive unlimited rides between 5:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Children 3 and under, free.
  • Fall arrives at Urban Ag Supply Catch the local growing vibes at this hip garden store. Lots of cool house plants, planters, seeds, fertilizer, and locally made artisan gifts.
  • Artist Reception at Gallery Calapooia Come meet the artists of the month: Melissa Babcock Saylor will display new paper collage works and Dennis Johanson’s will exhibit his pottery. There’ll be refreshments and music until 8:00 p.m.
  • “Sweeteasy” Sweet Red Bistro presents their 1920s version of a speakeasy-themed party. This event starts later (9:00 p.m.) and runs until 11:45 p.m. Dressing in flapper mode encouraged. There will be NO prohibition, wink wink.

Photo of classic antique cars lined up in front of buildings in Downtown Albany Oregon. at the Antiques in the Street annual eventSept 7th Antiques In the Streets Come early and stay late. Find your perfect vintage lamp, dining chairs, or that one of a kind piece of antique jewelry and much much more. Dealers will be dealing from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and the Classic Car Show will please the hotrod fans in the family. Food and music too.

Sept 7th Albany Farmers’ Market Fall is nearly here and so is comfort food. Stock up on farm-fresh onions, peppers, garlic, herbs, squash, and other fall crops. Grab a coffee to go and munch a cookie or a pastry while you peruse the booths. Be sure to bring your reusable shopping bags and help our Oregon farmlands stay “green!”

Sept 7th Albany Beer Run Hmmmm. Maybe we should say walk instead of “run?” But whatever you choose to call it or however you manage to participate, the Calapooia Brewing Company is providing both fun and the run (and the beer). The $25 admission fee gets you in the door from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Corvallis Lions Club will donate profits to Senior Dog Rescue of Oregon. This event is also dog-friendly for well-behaved canines on leashes. If you pre-register, you get a commemorative t-shirt and auto decal. For preregistration visit the event website.

Sept 10th Farm-to-Table Dinner at Midway Farms Join Midway Farms and eat a delicious 100% gluten free farm-to-table dinner. Castor is preparing the dinner from produce grown at Midway Farms. Seasonal cocktails and wine will be available. Come celebrate the bounty for $40/per person (buffet style dinner). Cocktails and wine are additional purchase. Tickets/RSVP required through Eventbrite. 

A antique historic photo showing the Venetian Theater circa 1900, in downtown Albany, OregonSept 11th History Bites at the Albany Regional Museum Our favorite noon time presentation is back at the museum. This month it’s all about “Theaters of Oregon.” Darrell Jabin toured and researched dozens of Oregon theaters to produce an entertaining presentation covering the unique architecture and history of Oregon Theaters. Light refreshments will be served. There is no charge for this program and a suggested donation of $2 for adults $1 for children is encouraged to support ARM’s programs.  For more information telephone 541-967-7122 or visit armuseum.com

Sept 14th – 15th NW Buckskin Club Horse Show Come watch these fabulously colored horses trot their stuff at the Linn County Expo Center. Competitions, vendors, food. For more information visit the event Facebook page.

Sept 14th Second Annual Millersburg Celebration Come see what Millersburg is all about. This is great event brings several communities together for a fun day in the park including live entertainment featuring Jackson Michelson, a Kids Fun Zone, car show, half-marathon run/walk, beer and wine garden, vendors, food trucks and business expo.  This event is free. For information visit the event website.

Sept 15th Farm-to-Table Dinner and Auction This fund-raising dinner and silent auction will help the Albany Regional Museum continue to provide education, and historical archives and exhibits to visitors and the community. Sybaris Bistro will be preparing the multi-course menu. For reservations (required) and ticketing, visit the event website.

Photo of Albany Oregon Festival Latino featuring cooks making traditional Mexican food on the grill.Sept 15th Albany Latino Festival This free event includes cultural performances, children’s activities, delicious food, a fun run, and a community resource fair, including a legal clinic. Hosted by Linn-Benton Hispanic Advisory Committee. The festival is held at Monteith Riverpark, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Sept 18th Albany Business Extravaganza Come see us on Sept 18th at the Albany Business Extravaganza. We will enter your name into hourly drawings for free rides to the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum at our booth. Check out what other businesses are up to and sample their wares.  From retail to wholesale, discover and make new connections. The event runs from 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Linn County Expo Center. Sponsored by the Albany Chamber of Commerce.

Sept 20th The Greater Albany Rotary Club and the Albany Downtown Association cordially invite you to the 8th Annual Craft Brew Smackdown. Breweries, cider houses, distilleries and wineries will serve attendees their very finest local brews at various downtown businesses. Get your pass online and receive an extra two drink tickets. Tickets are $20 for an event tasting glass and 10 tasting tickets; you will be able to buy additional tickets along the route. Purchase your tickets online and you will receive two extra tasting tickets.

Sept 20th (and other dates Sept – Oct) “Mama Mia” at the Albany Civic Theater This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the Photo of a swallow flying upside down at the historic State of Oregon Heritage Site, Thompson's Mills.island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. Get your tickets at albanycivic.org

Sept 21st (and Oct 26th) Cider Pressing at Thompson’s Mills You know fall is on the way when it’s time for apple cider! Come press your own at historic Thompson’s Mills from 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the 21st, or save the date for Oct 26th if you can’t make it in September. Thompson’s Mills is a State of Oregon Heritage Site and admission is free; donations accepted per gallon of cider. For more info visit Thompson’s Mills State Heritage website.

Sept 24th Sweet Home Farmers’ Market 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Another great opportunity to buy fresh from the people that grow the ingredients you love to cook with.

Sept 26th Lebanon Farmers’ Market 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A second opportunity this week to discover what’s fresh and healthy at the local farm and ranch.

Sept 26th Brownsville Farmers’ Market 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. It really is possible to take an afternoon to explore the countryside and shop local for a true farm-to-table dinner. Start in Lebanon, then make the short drive to Historic Brownsville. After you finish shopping, grab a coffee and a pastry or a glass of wine in downtown Brownsville. Any way you do it, it’s sure to be delicious.

Sept 28th Family Dinner Series – End of Summer Bounty – 6 p.m. at The Warehouse, 315 Lyon St. Celebrate the end of the farm-to-table dinner series and enjoy  locally grown and produced appetizers, entrees, sides, desserts and beer and wine. Participating producers include Wahl Family Farm, Deluxe Brewery, Camron Ridge Farmstead, and Camas Country Mill. There’s bound to be some magic when The Warehouse chefs are at work. Complete dinner is $45 per person. By reservation only: 541-704-0076.

SNEAK PREVIEW – OCTOBER MAIN EVENT

Photo showing candle light tour of the Monteith House during the Trolley of Terror in Albany, OregonBack by popular demand, the Monteith Society is once again hosting a fun and spooky historical experience this October: a candlelit tour of the Monteith House Museum and ride on the Trolley of Terror; sponsored by the Monteith Historical Society. Why visit a haunted house when you can take in a haunted tour of a whole town?! Climb aboard the Trolley of Terror and hear stories from Albany’s past as you ride through the Historic District’s haunted places. Albany’s oldest building, the Monteith House, was built in 1849. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the inside story on Albany’s historic haunted homes and businesses. Tours begin at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm on October 18th,19th, 25th and 26th. 

Ticketing and reservation info – This event sells out every year almost a month ahead! Read more on the Trolley of Terror ticket info blog.

Even more events for you to enjoy

*Make sure to visit our monthly events calendar for even more September/October fun.

From art to bicycles – it’s high summer in Albany

Photo of kidds and families biking with helmets on the annual covered bridges tour

Mid-summer is officially upon us in Oregon’s Willamette Valley and Linn County is abuzz with exciting fun things to do. You can start out celebrating First Friday in downtown Albany, then take a short ride to the Linn County Expo Center for the Mother Earth News Fair. If gardening and milking goats isn’t your thing, maybe vintage Chevys are. And, the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum is turning two years old on August 17th with a family carnival fundraiser that’s not to be missed.

Look for whatever gets you out and movin’ in our list of featured August events below:

Month of August Threads In Time Living Rock Studios in Brownsville is hosting a fiber art show Wednesdays through Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be demonstrations of spinning and weaving, hands-on fun for kids, handmade quilts on display, and lots of beautiful handicrafts for sale: yarns, tapestries, scarves, shawls, and woven items. Living Rock is a free museum filled with Oregon history and unique rocks and minerals. Donations are gratefully accepted.

photo of the Albany Regional Museum exterior with blue skies, big white clouds and hanging flower basketsAug 2nd First Friday at the Albany Regional Museum The museum is open late (until 8 p.m.) for your enjoyment. Stop by and enjoy art, refreshments, and learn more about Albany and Linn County history. Admission to ARM is free, but your donations help run the museum for everyone.

Aug 2nd First Friday at Gallery Calapooia So many great First Friday events in downtown Albany, and it all starts with a reception at Gallery Calapooia, on August 2nd, from 6 to 8 pm. This month, Lori Garcy and Cindi Conder are the featured artists. Come meet them and see their latest works.

Aug 3rd Mid-Summer Arts in the Park features performances from local dance, music, and theater companies, and much more, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m on Saturday the 3rd at Monteith Riverpark. This fun and interactive event is all about hands-on ways to get involved, from workshops to arts and crafts activities for kids. This annual festival is definitely a family-oriented affair.

Aug 3rd – 4th Mother Earth News Fair is where the bees, honey, and biscuit lovers gather to learn about homesteading skills such as gardening, food preservation and animal husbandry. Experts in fields such as cheesemaking, mead production and lavender farming will host workshops and participate in demonstrations. Buy your specially discounted weekend pass now online and save $20 (pass is $5 for a limited time).

Photo of a black 1956 Chevrolet pickup truckAug 7th – 10th  48th Annual Vintage Chevy Northwest Meet Hosted by the Columbia River Region VCCA, this year’s theme is “Vistas, Valleys, Vineyards and Vintage Chevrolets.” A full program of events for those with classic cars is planned, including tours, judging, and an awards banquet.

The public can see the cars in one spot on Thursday, August 8th, at Timber Linn Park from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Vintage Chevrolet Car Show. Be sure to look for these amazing vintage cars as they make their way across Albany and Linn County. It’s a great photo opportunity for our local photographers. For more information visit the event website.

Aug 10th Family Bug Crawl From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. join entomologist Richard Little and hunt for the often overlooked wildlife living along riparian and urban boundaries near trails. Expect to be thrilled and maybe chilled by the creepy crawlers you’ll encounter. You don’t have to be a family to love this event, so come one, come all. If you’d like, bring a magnifying glass and a bug collection box, plus sunscreen and a hat. Meet at Riverview Park, 1025 Mountain River Dr, in Lebanon. For additional information, visit the park’s trails website.

Aug 10th First Annual Car Show at the Mall If you didn’t get to see the cars at the vintage Chevy meet, Heritage Mall is hosting a car show behind the covered mall. There will be lots of hot rods, custom builds and classics, and food vendors. Hours for the free show are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Aug 11th Covered Bridges Bicycle Tour Get your spokes a’ twirling! The 41st Annual Covered Bridge Bicycle Tour is a premier one-day cycling event sponsored by Mid Valley Bike Club. Rides vary from 40, 68, 85, or 101 miles on quiet country roads and through five well-preserved historic covered bridges. The tour starts and finishes at the Linn County Expo Center. For more information visit the event website.

Photo of people paddling kayaks in the Willamette RiverAug 12th – 16th Paddle Oregon This year’s trip will wind along 85.5 miles of river, beginning at Marshall Island Access in Junction City and end at Wallace Marine Park in Salem. The tour will camp in Bryant Park, August 14th,  so even if you aren’t a participant this year, and you’d like to meet the paddlers or do some colorful photography, come down to the Albany Visitors Association booth at the park.  Follow along with the Willamette River Water Trail maps provided in the “more information” links below. 

For more information visit:  https://paddleoregon.org/

Aug 14th History Bites at the Albany Regional Museum Are martinis shaken or stirred? Well if its the former, you might want to come on down to the noontime presentation at the museum this month—it’s all about how to prepare and stay safe in case the Cascadia Earthquake hits. The presentation starts at noon. You can bring your own lunch and learn tips and scientific facts while you nosh. As always, the presentation is free, but donations to keep the museum open to all are graciously accepted. For more information visit https://www.armuseum.com

Aug 16th (and dates through and beyond August) It’s the ACT Youth Summer Camp presentation of the musical “Seussical Jr.” at the Albany Civic Theater. Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in this fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.  For information and tickets visit: albanycivic

Photo of carved wooden carousel animal, a kitty, with a mouse in its mouthAug 17th It’s a second anniversary party at the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum—so you don’t want to miss the “Carnival at the Carousel” celebration. Expect carnival games of the past, old-fashioned carnival characters, a cakewalk, carousel-made photo-boards, kissing booth, and much MUCH more. Free admission and 25 cent game tickets help this fundraiser be accessible for all. For more information visit http://albanycarousel.com

Aug 17th Vets Helping Vets 12th Annual Picnic Bring the family and spend the day at Timber Linn Memorial Park enjoying live entertainment. Hourly raffle drawings for prizes and a silent auction. Enjoy a free lunch featuring hamburgers, hotdogs, chips and soda, but please bring salads or desserts to share. For information telephone 541-791-4357.

Graphic poster that gives information about the Lebanon Downtown Farmers' Market event: Tomato DayAugust 22nd Tomato Day at the Lebanon Downtown Farmers’ Market. Come taste a variety of tomatoes and tasty dishes made starring the humble but glorious tomato. Get tips from OSU Master Gardeners and learn the best preserving methods for this ultimate sunshiny fruit. So many tomatoes, so little time to eat them all!

August 23rd -24th Ninth Annual Albany Coin Challenge Every year for the past eight years, the Albany Visitors Association has sponsored a family Geocaching event over the Northwest Art & Air Festival weekend.  This year’s challenge will begin with a meet and greet on Friday, August 23rd, from 5:00 PM -7:00 PM at Albany Mennonite Church, 3405 Kizer Ave NE, prior to the hot air balloon “night glow” event at Timber Linn Park.  On Saturday, August 24th, the hunt will begin at 10:00 AM at Allan’s Coffee & Tea Wholesale Distribution Warehouse parking lot, 1852 Fescue St SE.  Approximately 175 keepsake coins and passports have been created.  Each passport lists the coordinates for 10 local businesses, five historic homes and five non-business locations, along with a question that needs to be answered at each location. Every person completing the passport is guaranteed a one-of-a-kind trackable geocoin.  The event runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; coins are available for pickup from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Allan’s coffee parking lot.  More information is available on the geocaching website or telephone Don Bacher at 541-974-1068.

Aug 23rd – 24th You’ve waited all year for the hot air balloons and shaved ice to arrive, so mark those calendars for the NW Art & Air Festival! Friday night, the balloon regatta lights up on the grounds under the night sky, creating a magical skyscape. During Friday and Saturday, artists fill the grassy meadows of Timber-Linn Park with booths containing a wide variety of handcraft and artwork. Visit the family zone, food vendors, and live music throughout the day. Rick Springfield performs a free concert at the Timber Linn Ampitheater on Saturday night. Festival parking is $10, admission is free. For more Art & Air information, visit the festival website.

Photo of hot air balloon at the NW Art & Air Festival lit at nighttimeSUNDAY SCHEDULE CHANGE Although the fair schedule does not run through Sunday this year (please note this a change from previous years), on the 25th there will be an early morning balloon launch at 6:45 a.m. and Young Eagles flights at the airport. (Registration for Young Eagles begins at 9:00 a.m.) The airport is hosting all kinds of activities on Sunday, including booths, food and drink. Please check the Infinite Air Center website for Sunday’s schedule.

Aug 24th Head on down the road to historic Brownsville and participate in “Hands On History” at the Linn County Historical Museum. This free family event includes trying out pioneer skills, crafts, and cooking. Listen to tales of long ago, dance in the street, and try on pioneer garb at the museum and Moyer House. For event hours and other information telephone 541-466-3390 or visit https://linnparks.com/museums/linn-county-historical-museum/

Aug 31st It might be the tail end of the month, but you can still find all the delicious things to eat at the Albany Farmers’ Market on Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Stock up on honey, jam, berries, greens, bread, and meats at the market. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a freshly baked gluten-free cupcake with mile-high frosting. So many yummy things, so little time—so bring your grocery bags down to the market early at 4th and Ellsworth, and start exploring!

See you in September

Just so you know, September will be a gorgeous month to visit our fair city as well. Here’s a sneak preview of what’s happenin’ below:

Graphic Logo for the 2019 Festival Latino in Albany, OregonSept 15th Festival Latino 2019  This free event includes cultural performances, children’s activities, delicious food, a fun run, and a community resource fair, including a legal clinic. Hosted by Linn-Benton Hispanic Advisory Committee. The festival is held at Monteith Riverpark, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ¡Venga a celebrar la Cultura Latinoamericana en el Festival Latino de Albany 2019! Evento Gratuito para el público. Habrá comida para comprar, actividades para los niños, espectáculos culturales, carrera/caminata familiar y una feria de recursos comunitarios, incluyendo consultas con abogados legales! No se lo pierda! Se tomarán inscripciones para la feria de recursos, puestos de comida y música entre el 15 de julio al 15 de agosto.

A berry delicious July, jam-packed with events

Photo montage of a berry pie with sparklers to celebrate Independence Day

One of the fabulous things Oregon is known for, is our agricultural bounty. And in July, fresh berries are one of the commodities that bring visitors near and far to Albany and Linn County u-pick farms, roadside stands, and farmers’ markets. Several area farms grow blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and (known for its humble Willamette Valley origins), the Marionberry. 

The following farms could be the start of a great weekend itinerary to satisfy the berry lover in your family:

Midway Farms One of Albany’s agricultural gems, Midway is a bucolic organic farm store (and working farm) on Hwy 20. As you drive towards Corvallis, its red barn peeks out from between shade trees and a riot of multi-colored flowers. The store is usually bursting with an eclectic mix of seasonal harvests—from green onions and sweet greens to fall potatoes, tomatoes and garlic. 

Photo of a woman holding out ripe blueberries at a u-pick farmMidway’s crowning glory of summer are their sweet succulent organic strawberries, blueberries and other seasonal fruit. The farm posts frequently on Facebook, so if you’re planning on making fresh jam, follow their page to find out when there are special sales on bulk berries. Depending on the bounty, Kapple may run a spontaneous jam-making sale.

Midway Farms is located at 6980 NW US Highway 20, and the farm store is open daily, including weekends, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can also snag their produce, flowers, fruits, eggs and meats at the Albany or Corvallis Farmers’ Market.

Bryant Family Farm A short five minute drive into the Albany countryside and you can load up on the biggest juiciest blueberries in Linn County. This family owned venture features 19 different varieties of “no spray” blueberries. You can opt to pick your own or purchase fresh or frozen berries for all your culinary creations. 

The farm features a family picnic area and restrooms, so you can bring your favorite hamper packed with goodies and rest between picking. The Bryant family purchased the farm about five years ago, carrying on the u-pick tradition of the former owners, Peter and Millie Romans. The Romans planted their first bushes in 1967.

Photo of ripe blueberries in green containers at a local Albany Oregon farmIf you are in hurry and don’t have time to pick yourself, you can order free delivery service of frozen berries (within Albany), any size order over five pounds, at $2.25 per pound. Frozen blueberry still pack a nutritional punch and are delicious in muffins, pancakes, ice cream, smoothies, and jams.

The season at the farm runs from mid-June to the second week in August, from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., dependent on fruit ripening, weather patterns, and crop availability. It’s usually best to check with the farm at 541-704-0677. Bryant Family Farm is located at 35923 Bryant Drive SW, Albany, Oregon.

July’s jam-packed featured events

We’ve lined up a little over 20 of our favorite summer events for you to peruse below. Pick out several, and come play and stay in Albany.

July (and through August) PoP It’s the “Power of Produce” Club (PoP) at the Albany Farmers’ Market. PoP is a free summer program for kids at the farmers’ market. All kids ages 5 – 12 can register and receive $4 in tokens each week they come to the market. Tokens can be used to purchase fruits, vegetables, dried beans, nuts, seeds and plants that grow food. See you at the market, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

July 4th River Rhythms is almost here! The first concert of the summer is scheduled for Thursday, July 4th. Bring your blankets and picnic baskets and spread out under the summer stars. The Baha Men—a Bahamian band playing a modernized style of Bahamian music called junkanoo, are the season openers. They are best known for their Grammy Award winning hit song “Who Let the Dogs Out?” There are children’s activities prior to the concert (come early at 5:30) an adult beer garden, food, a bike valet, and trolley rides around downtown. The concert is from 7 to 9 pm.

Photo of a fireworks display over the Willamette River on the Fourth of July in Albany, OregonJuly 4th Hooray! Fireworks return to Albany on the Fourth of July at Monteith River Park. The big bang display coincides with the opening of River Rhythms, and follows the free concert by The Baha Men. Fireworks are scheduled to begin around 9:00 p.m., but with the concert falling on the Fourth, you’ll want to get to the park early and claim your spot. (Photo copyright by Anthony Shelar, ASHDR Photography)

July 4th – 7th More July holiday fun! Start the Fourth off with a bang and an “all you can eat sausage, eggs, pancakes, milk, and coffee” Lumberjack Breakfast at Timber Linn Memorial Park. Starting at 6 a.m. and running until 11 a.m., July 4th through through the 7th, this fundraiser for the East Albany Lions Club enables their support to community sight and hearing projects. Tickets are $8 adults and $4 children 11 and under.

July 5th – 7th Baa Baa black sheep, it’s aaaalmost here! The Black Sheep Gathering at the Linn County Expo Center starts July 5th. Enjoy three days of competition, displays, workshops and shopping at one of the country’s largest shows of natural colored fiber animals and hand-crafted products made from their wool. Learn how to felt, create mosaic knitting, spin, dye, ply, weave, and shear the fiber from many breeds of animals. Admission and parking are free. For hours, workshop registration, and show schedule visit http://www.blacksheepgathering.org

July 5th So many great First Friday events in downtown Albany, and it all starts with a reception at Gallery Calapooia, on July 5th, from 6 to 8 pm. This month, Rob R Robinson and Cheryl French are the featured artists. Come meet them and see their latest works. *Painting below: Rob R Robinson’s multi-media work entitled “Focus.”

Photo of Albany artist Rob R Robinson's mixed media painting entitled "Focus."July 5th First Friday at the Albany Regional Museum is just around the corner! The exhibits will stay open until 8 p.m. on Friday, July 5th. Stop by and enjoy art, refreshments, and learning more about Albany and Linn County history. Admission to ARM is free, but your donations help run the museum for everyone.

July 8th Time for Summer Sounds at Monteith Park! On Monday, July 8th, the series starts with “The Spirit of Earth, Wind & Fire.” Sip your own wine or beer, purchase soft drinks and food from the vendor court, and take a stroll along the riverfront with your sweetheart. The free concert is from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. This year’s lineup runs the gamut from electric string pop to funk and swing. For the full schedule, visit the City of Albany website at https://www.cityofalbany.net/…/parks-a…/events/summer-sounds

July 10th Feeling itchy to get summer started? Before heading to the woods for a campout, you might want to attend the next “History Bites” at the Albany Regional Museum. On Wednesday, July 10th at noon, the free presentation focuses on the history of Albany’s very own Tec Labs, a pharmaceutical company that produces potions to ease rashes caused by poison oak and ivy. 

Graphic with two goats talking to each other about Crazy Daze event in Albany, OregonJuly 11th Work got your goat? Time for some big fun at Albany’s historic Crazy Daze. This annual event begins Thursday July 11th and runs through the 13th. Originally called Bargain Days in 1898, the name was changed to Crazy Daze after WWII. Merchants will participate in sidewalk sales throughout downtown, offering great items at crazy reduced prices. Merchandise changes daily so you might want to come down all three days. Grab your sunscreen or a hat and stroll our sidewalks for crazy deals and crazy delicious food at our fabulous downtown eateries!

July 11th River Rhythms presents the father of The Twist, Chubby Checker! Seating is available on a first-come, first served basis, beginning at 5:30. The concert begins at 7 p.m.  Learn more about this series.  There are children’s activities prior to the concerts, an adult beer garden, food, a bike valet, and trolley rides around downtown.

July 19th Movies at Monteith Outdoor movies in the park have become today’s version of the drive-in movie experience of the past – only better. Enjoy Movies at Monteith on Friday evenings in late July and early August at Monteith Park in Downtown Albany. Movies start at dusk (around 9:00 pm).

      2019 Schedule

  • July  19 – “Up” starring the voice of Ed Asner 10th Year Anniversary
  • July 26 – “Ghostbusters” starring Bill Murray, Dan Ackroyd 30th Year Anniversary
  • August 2 – “Mary Poppins” starring Julie Andrews and Dick Vandyke  55th Year Anniversary
  • August 9 – “The Wizard of Oz” starring Judy Garland  80th Year Anniversary

Cartoon poster for the animated movie UpFood Vendors include: First Burger, Little Wuesten German Foods, Cassetta di Pasta, The Albany Pix Theatre, Scouts. General seating area opens at 8 am, blanket area opens at 5:30 pm.  Please do not put your blankets down earlier, space is needed to put up the gigantic movie screen! Smoking – No smoking at Movies at Monteith. Smoking is allowed only outside of the event area, this also includes vapor devices. Marijuana is NOT ALLOWED in the park for any reason. You will be escorted out of the park if you bring it in. No Pets – Service Dogs are the only dogs allowed in the park.  Companion animals and family pets must stay at home. Alcohol – Beer, wine, and cider are the only alcoholic beverages allowed in the park.  You will be asked to take hard alcohol out of the park.

July 19th (and other dates through July – Aug) The Albany Civic Theater presents “The Unexpected Guest.” Lost in the fog, a stranger seeks refuge in a nearby house only to find a man shot dead and his wife standing over him with a smoking gun. But the woman’s dazed confession is anything but convincing and the unexpected guest decides to help. Remarkably, the police clues point to a man who died two years previously but as the ghosts of a past wrong begin to emerge, a tangled web of lies reveals family secrets and chilling motives, where the real murderer turns out to be the greatest mystery of all. Check ACT’s website for ticket and performance time info: http://www.albanycivic.org/shows/the-unexpected-guest/

Photo of a vintage trailer from circa 1950sJuly 20th Rally on the River – Vintage Trailer Show See inside over 100 vintage trailers from 1938 to 1984 including tear drops, popups, tents and motor homes. This is a free family event in Historic Brownsville’s Pioneer Park on the Calapooia River.  For more information visit the event Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/136046563763686/

July 22nd Time for Summer Sounds at Monteith Park! On Monday, July 22nd, catch the music of artist Tia Brazada. Brazada weaves her lush retro sound with classic jazz, pop, and bossa nova. Sip your own wine or beer, purchase soft drinks and food from the vendor court, and take a stroll along the riverfront. The free concert is from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. This year’s series lineup runs the gamut from electric string pop to funk and swing. Come early and claim your spot. For the full schedule, visit the City of Albany website at https://www.cityofalbany.net/…/parks-a…/events/summer-sounds

July 23rd Stand By Me Day Head out to Historic Brownsville for this annual cult classic movie event. Stephen King’s novel made into an all-time coming of age move was filmed in Brownsville. Get in on the activities: blueberry pie-eating contest, walking tours, hula hoop lessons, sack races, hop-scotch, classic car show, costume contest, musical performances, and of course, a showing of everyone’s favorite film, Stand By Me. This event is organized by the Linn County Historical Museum. For more information, visit: https://linnparks.com/museums/linn-county-historical-museum/

July 24th History Through Headstones Tour Join the Albany Regional Museum for an evening of “History Through Headstones” honoring nine prominent Albany individuals. Hear their stories and learn more about the pioneer Albany Masonic Cemetery. The tour is free to participate in. For more information, visit the museum website at: armuseum.com 

Photogrpah of Beatles Tribute band called the Fab FourJuly 25th Does Albany love me—yeah, yeah, yeah! River Rhythms presents the greatest Beatles tribute band ever—Fab Four. Seating is available on a first-come, first served basis, beginning at 5:30. The concert begins at 7 p.m.  Learn more about this series.  There are children’s activities prior to the concerts, an adult beer garden, food, a bike valet, and trolley rides around downtown.

July 26th – 27th Guitars Under the Stars. Rock on at this guitar and craft beer festival that includes two stages and camping with plenty of shade! All ages are welcome, so bring the family and spend the weekend listening to great music, and enjoying great food and drinks. For information and tickets please visit: http://guitarsunderthestars.net

July 27th The Annual Summer Historic Interior Home Tour offers an opportunity to peek inside some of the city’s finest historic buildings and houses on the National Historic Register. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., homeowners and hosts will be available to answer questions about the history of the dwelling, restoration efforts, historic house maintenance, and other details about Albany’s four historic districts. The tour is self-guided; you can visit the homes in any order by walking, personal vehicle, or horse-drawn wagon and vintage trolley, both of which are included in the $15 price of admission (well-behaved children aged 12 and under are free). For more information telephone Albany Visitors Association at 541-928-0911. Online tickets are available on our website at: https://albanyvisitors.com/2019/06/25/annual-summer-historic-interior-home-tour-online-tickets/

July 29th Summer Sounds presents local Blues legend, Curtis Salgado. Come catch Salgado and friends, as they perform at Monteith Park. Sip your own wine or beer, purchase soft drinks and food from the vendor court, and take a stroll along the riverfront with your sweetheart. The free concert is from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. This year’s concert series lineup runs the gamut from electric string pop to funk and swing. For the full schedule, visit the City of Albany website at https://www.cityofalbany.net/…/parks-a…/events/summer-sounds

Our top list of 4th of July fireworks displays

  1. Tucked into the countryside south of Albany is historic Brownsville. The tiny hamlet will host an old-fashioned Fourth of July Celebration all day, starting with a big pancake breakfast at 7:00 a.m., filling the daylight hours with kiddie activities, live music and food, and ending with a big-bang fireworks display at dusk. The event is held at Pioneer Park in Brownsville. For more information visit http://historicbrownsville.com/event/breakfast-fireworks-in-the-park-3/
  2. Join in on a big festive Fourth at the Star Spangled Celebration, held in Lebanon, Oregon, at Cheadle Lake Park. The event starts at 6:00 p.m. and ends at 10:30 p.m. following the fireworks display over the lake. There will be lots of musical entertainment, children’s activities, face painting, bounce houses, and food booths. There is a $10 admission by the carload or you can walk in for $3 per person. 
  3. On the official holiday, Albany’s outdoor River Rhythms at Monteith Park (alongside the Willamette River) will start the season off with a splash and a bang. The venerable band The Baha Men will play their trademark sounds at 7:00 p.m. and a fireworks display will follow the concert. Bring your blankets, folding chairs and picnic food, but please leave Fido or Fluffy at home. The Children’s Art Area opens at 5:30 p.m. For the full summer schedule visit the City of Albany website.
  4. Plan ahead for Fourth of July fun: Join old and new friends in Harrisburg, where an “Old Fashioned 4th of July” means activity from morning to night! Food, a parade, games, vendors, free entertainment, and of course, fireworks. You’ll find the celebration happening in several locations throughout the city. For more information, visit the City of Harrisburg website

Have a safe and happy Fourth from all of us at Albany Visitors Association. For more great July activities, read our blog.

June is busting’ out all over – with events

Photo of two young boys dressed in aprons and strawberry themed hats at the Lebanon Strawberry Festival parade in Linn County, Oregon.

Come gather in Albany and find your perfect comfort zone—whether its sipping wine at nearby Springhill Cellars Winery or a leisurely stroll along the river— June is a transitional month where local events move into high gear as we prep for sunny summer months. Come join us in Albany and Linn And Benton Counties for the following sensational events. (We always add other featured events as we discover them, so check back soon.)

May 30 – June 2nd Wrap up National Historic Preservation Month at the 110th Lebanon Strawberry Festival. This historical Linn County event has something for everyone, from a Saturday night fireworks display and the World’s Largest Strawberry Shortcake to a parade and entertainment. Located at Cheadle Lake Park, 37919 Weirich Dr, Lebanon, OR. lebanonstrawberryfestival.com

Graphic of event information.June 1st What could be better than a new animal on the Albany Carousel? What about TWO new animals?! Come attend the big unveiling party on June 1st, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum. Welcome “Thunder the Bison” and “Sampson the Rooster” as they join the other animals on the carousel. It’s a wild west themed party, so wear your favorite cowboy boots, hats, and chaps… but please, leave the spurs at home.

June 7th Plan on celebrating First Friday in Downtown Albany with all the usual suspects, including the Albany Regional Museum, Urban Ag Supply, The Natty Dresser, Sweet Red Bistro, Gallery Calapooia and others. Check in on June’s featured artists at the free reception at Gallery Calapooia: Marilyn Lindsley’s polymer clay jewelry and Marjorie Kinch’s watercolors will be on display. Stop in to meet the artists and enjoy light refreshments and live music. The Albany Historic Carousel & Museum will be open for special family activities, from 5:30 to 8:00; a $5 admission gets you unlimited rides. Wander through downtown historic Albany and pop in to shops and restaurants featuring First Friday extended hours and specials.

June 8th The “Albany Passport Program for Kids” is coming! This summer, your children can explore over 30 locations around town to learn more about the history of Albany. Grab your passport starting on June 8th at Albany Fire Station No. 11 (611 Lyon St SE) and start visiting, collecting stamps, and possibly win prizes. The Albany Summer Passport is a free children’s program offered through a partnership of the City of Albany, Albany Visitors Association, Albany Downtown Association, Albany Regional Museum, and the Monteith Historical Society. This project is supported in part by a grant from the Oregon Heritage Commission, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and the Oregon Cultural Trust. For more info, contact AVA at 541.928.0911.

Graphic of map showing display areas at Albany, Oregon Talking Water Gardens June 12th Nothing better than the free lunchtime series at the Albany Regional Museum “History Bites.” Bring your lunch or nosh on light refreshments at the latest in the series, a history of Talking Water Gardens. The demonstration habitat shows how recycled wastewater can be used to create wildlife and botanical preserves—where insects, birds, wetland flora and fauna, are on view seasonally to hikers, photographers, and all who love and appreciate the outdoors. The presentation starts at noon in the community room.

June 13th Another one of our Linn County “food trail” destinations is the Thursday afternoon Brownsville Farmers’ Market. Hunt for sweet strawberries, crisp mesclun salad greens, root veggies, and other late spring selections to create your own perfect “farm to fork” experience. The outdoor market on Main St opens at 3:00 p.m. and runs until 6:00 p.m. Come earlier in the day and forage in unique small shops and have lunch at one of several restaurants and bakeries, or try a little Oregon wine tasting at Harpers Wine House.

June 14th – 21st What exactly is a “flat-coated retriever?” Why not come and find out as you watch this beautiful sporting breed perform in the show ring at Linn County Expo Center. The dog’s field trials will be held in nearby Scio. The 2019 Northwest Flat-Coated Retriever National Specialty will bring canines from across the US to Albany. Get the full schedule of events at https://fcrsa.org/2019specialty/

June 14th ( and various dates throughout June ) The Albany Civic Theater presents the “Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon,” starting the second week in June. Classic fairy tales are turned on their heads as two narrators and several actors attempt to combine all 209 Grimm stories ranging from classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel and Gretel to more bizarre, obscure stories like The Devil’s Grandmother and The Girl Without Hands. A wild, free-form comedy with lots of audience participation and madcap fun. Written by Don Zolidis and directed by Conner Riley.  For information telephone 541-928-4603 or visit http://www.albanycivic.org

Photo of a 2013 Through the Garden Gate Tour in Albany OregonJune 15th An annual event, the much beloved garden tour “Through the Garden Gate” takes place the Saturday before Father’s Day Sunday. Take your garden-loving dad on this tour featuring OSU Master Gardeners. Tour the private gardens in any order, on your own schedule. Tickets are $15.00 and all funds raised support gardening education for adults and youth in Linn County. Maps and tickets are available at Albany Visitors Association office and other garden centers in the area. Telephone 541-928-0911 for ticketing information.

June 22nd The Third Annual Albany Pride Parade. Albany joins with other communities in strengthening diversity and inclusiveness with this public event. Assemble at the 11:00 a.m. at the Linn County Courthouse, 300 Fourth St. The parade route and more details will be published as we receive more information from the event organizers and sponsors.

For a complete list of Albany area events, visit our monthly events calendar.

Wine Walk Tickets Available Now

Photo of wine in glasses and bottle from Springhill Winery in North Albany Oregon

Don’t whine—wine! Get your tickets ahead of time for the Albany Downtown Wine Walk. The walk takes place on May 3rd, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 and include a wine glass, and five tasting tickets.

Additional tickets may be purchased in scrip bundles, $5 for five tastings.

Head over to our office on 3rd and Lyon for your entrance to this tasty evening.

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