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Albany, OR 97321
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The 30th Annual Night Time Magic Program
Holiday Light Contest 2017
Once again, the Albany Visitors Association is helping to make the holiday season bright by sponsoring the 30th Annual Night Time Magic Holiday Light Program. Residents are encouraged to enter a contest 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 (you fill in the blank!) _______________________.
RULES:
- Entries must be within the Albany City limits.
- Homeowners are encouraged to use lights to illuminate their decorations.
- Lights need to be on from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, December 1, 2017 – January 1, 2018.
- Entries for “Best Neighborly Effort” must have three or more partners in a concentrated area.
- Entry/Nomination Deadline: 5:00 pm on December 10, 2017.
Decorations can be any style and lights can be white, clear or colored.
Entry forms can be picked up, printed out by using the following PDF: Night Time Magic Holiday Light Contest Entry Form, or requested via e-mail at info@albanyvisitors.com. All forms should be turned into the Albany Visitors Association at 110 3rd Ave SE, Albany, OR 97321.
Winners will be announced by December 15th, and presentations made soon after.
People wishing to drive or walk through the historic districts to look at the displays can pick up a list of participants and a map at the Albany Visitors Association beginning December 15th. Lights will be on through January 1, 2018.
Thank you to all the homeowners who participate in this program, without your efforts this wonderful community tradition would not be possible.
Fun over Thanksgiving weekend
Looking for Thanksgiving Day and holiday weekend activities? You might already have your time scheduled, yet there’s always last minute company to entertain and you just might want to escape Great Aunt Mary’s turkey bone soup! We’ve put together a few ideas of what you can do over the long weekend in the Albany area.
Thanksgiving Dinner
Have you decided that tangling with the turkey isn’t much fun? How about chucking the pots and pans and letting someone else do the work, including the clean-up! Here’s a short list of local restaurants that will be open and serving traditional Thanksgiving dinners with all the trimmings.
Elmers Restaurant, 2802 Santiam Hwy, Albany, 541-928-4227, open on the holiday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Cascade Grill, 110 Opal St NE, Albany, 541-928-3388, open on the holiday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Cellar Cat, 211 1st Ave W, Albany, 541-704-0304. Fantastic Thanksgiving feast: telephone for holiday meal hours.
Sybaris Bistro, benefit dinner for ABC House, please contact for reservations: 541-928-8157.
SweetWaters, 2390 Santiam Hwy, Albany, 541-812-9222, open on the holiday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wine Tasting
Since Albany’s very own Springhill Cellars Winery is located in picturesque North Albany, it’s the perfect weekend to take a short drive and experience their annual Federweisser Festival. 
The festival begins the Friday after Thanksgiving and runs through the entire weekend. This harvest fest is German in origin and pairs new, still fermenting Riesling (the Federweisser) with specially made bratwürst and Zwiebelkuchen, a sweet onion tart. The oom-pah-pah music drifts through the air during the day for a German flavor, and at night, a floor-stomping barn dance with a live rock-n-roll band sets it up for the fun crowd. For more information, contact Springhill Cellars at 541-928-1009. They are located at 2920 NW Scenic Drive.
Cider Pressing
Nothing says autumn like fresh apple cider! Pro-tip: It tastes best when you make it yourself. Bring the family to Thompson’s Mills on Friday after Thanksgiving (11/24) and help press a half gallon to bring home. The circa 1860 Mill is open from 9 to 4 for free tours and exploration. Cider pressing will begin at 1:00 p.m. Take home a half-gallon or more for a contribution to help create a fire suppression system that will preserve the last remaining water powered gristmill in Oregon. Thompson’s Mills is located at 32655 Boston Mill Drive east of Shedd. For more information: 541- 491-3611.
Shopping
Along with the usual Thanksgiving “midnight madness” at big box stores, why not schedule some “you-time” at the annual Shop Small Saturday in Downtown Albany? This nationally recognized day is set aside to encourage customers to shop local for the holidays and support small businesses. Many of our downtown and city-wide stores will offer special sales and events. So bring your shopping bags and join your neighbors in some major Thanksgiving week fun. It all happens on Saturday, November 25th. For more information, contact the Albany Downtown Association at 541-928-2469.
Holiday Crafts and Workshops
Thanksgiving officially marks the time of year that non-profit and local businesses run holiday themed workshops and craft shows. It’s a great opportunity to pick up unique and locally made gifts. Although our list is not complete, we’ve found a couple of activities centered around Thanksgiving weekend that you might be interested in.
Christmas in the Barn is located in Shedd, a short drive from Albany. The show runs Friday, November 24th through Saturday, November 25th. Featured items include antiques, French/vintage inspired home and garden decor, fresh greens and wreaths, baked goodies, and much more. Located at 29722 Roberts Rd. in Shedd, the show is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Albany Art Studio is opening their doors for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday on November 24 and 25. Preview their space and be the first to sign up for classes. You’ll be able to purchase merchandise, buy art and other goodies at a (drastically!) reduced rate available on these two days only. This will only be a peek, not all items will be displayed. Items will go fast! The studio is located at 131 NW Montgomery St in Albany. Telephone 541-231-7922 for hours.
Make Your Own Wreath is a workshop held at Garland Nursery, on Saturday and Sunday, November 25th and 26th. Learn how to make your very own holiday wreath from just a wire wreath ring and cut greens. This workshop is fun and messy! Class is held in a lightly heated house so wear layers for warmth and bring gloves. Garland will provide the materials, tools and hot cider. Pre-registration is required, so telephone 541-753-6601. Garland Nursery is located at 5470 US Hwy 20, between Albany and Corvallis.
Oil Painting Demonstration Daniel Bourdet will demonstrate his safe, solvent free oil painting technique at Gallery Calapooia on Saturday, November 25th at 11:00 a.m. Learn to use walnut oil to thin paints and clean brushes. Eliminate hazardous waste material by using this fun and easy technique. Telephone 541-971-5701 for more information. Gallery Calapooia is located at 222 1st Ave SW in Albany’s downtown district.
Putting the “howl” in Halloween
Looking for some absolutely “killer” local fun for Halloween? Want to entertain the “monsters” in the family? Well here’s list of featured events that are gonna blow your striped witch socks right off!
Listen to the audio file and get in the mood!
Albany’s Monteith House Museum and the Albany Visitors Association are planning a devilish good time for all ages. Their first event is one that kids and grandkids will enjoy: the “Trolley of Terror!” Our bright red vintage trolley will be decked out in spooky halloween decorations and will run hourly local tours throughout downtown. It’s going to be nothing but onboard fun, plus a candle-lit tour of historic Monteith House.
The Trolley of Terror starts on Friday, October 20th, with hourly tours at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 p.m. The trolley fun continues on Saturday Oct 21st, then again on October 27th and 28th. Seating is limited, so reservations and pre-payment are highly advised. Telephone AVA at 541-928-0911 for your tickets or stop by our office on Third Ave SE and Lyon. Tickets are $5 for children under 12, and $10 for adults. Special group rates are available.
The VIP Ghost Hunt Tour is strictly for adults. Spend the evening at the Monteith House Museum with a small group of dedicated ghost-hunters. Learn how to use paranormal activity equipment and participate in an investigative tour of the house. Each tour runs from 10:30 p.m. until 1:00 a.m., and is limited to 10 people. The VIP tour will run on Saturday, October 14th, Saturday, October 21st, and Friday, October 27th. This is a “not to be missed” tour, requiring reservations. Tickets are $50.
Both events’ ticket sales will help maintain the non-profit Monteith House Museum.
What to do around the town and nearby
Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon and 8K Feeling a bit pumpkin-shaped from summer goodies? Well this event should help keep you ship-shape for Halloween treats. The marathon takes place on Saturday, October 21st at Cheadle Lake in Lebanon. Telephone 541-848-3978.
Boo Boogie Bash Rough Stock Rodeo How about getting your cowgirl or cowboy boots on and heading out to the Linn County Fair & Expo Center? On Saturday, October 21st from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. you can boogie with the best of the rough riders. Pre-admission tickets are $13 buckaroos or $15 at the door. Small ghouls and boys under 5 are free with accompanying adult. Check the event website at www.wildwesteventsinc.com or telephone 541-895-5335 for more information.
Albany Downtown Trick or Treat and Costume Contest On Saturday, October 28th, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. you can bring the entire family down for a safe and fun way to celebrate. Downtown stores will open for trolls, witches, ghosts, goblins (and Captain America too!) or any child ready for a treat. Sponsored by the Albany Downtown Association, check www.albanydowntown.com for more information or telephone 541-928-2469.
Zombie Zoup Run On Saturday, October 28th, Sweet Home is getting their sweet treat on with an exciting run for everyone. The event starts at 10:00 a.m at the Jim Riggs Community Center. For more information and registration, visit the event website at www.zombiezouprun.weebly.com or telephone 541-367-5128.
Heritage Mall Trick or Treat at the Mall If the zombies in the family haven’t found a party yet, Heritage Mall is hosting a Halloween Day/Night trick or treat event from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 31st. Check out their website at www.heritagemall.com or telephone 541-967-8238 for more information.
From all of us at AVA, have a safe and Happy Halloween!
Fireworks and beyond – July 4th
While the City of Albany has no fireworks display in July (our big bang comes in August), Linn County communities hold several family-oriented Independence Day celebrations complete with food, music, and good old-fashioned fireworks. We’ve listed three below as well as a couple of “after-the-Fourth” events held the same week.
Brownsville Breakfast and Fireworks – July 4, 2017
On the Fourth of July, Historic Brownsville kicks off the celebration early with an old fashioned pancake breakfast fundraiser cooked up by the Brownsville Fire Department. At dusk, the fireworks create a multi-colored spectacle in the sky.
Learn more about this event
Harrisburg Old Fashioned Fourth of July – July 4, 2017
The biggest event in Harrisburg is the Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration. Get a good nights rest on July 3rd so you can be ready for activities that begin in the morning and do not end until the glow of fireworks fades. It doesn’t matter what day the 4th of July falls on. We always celebrate the 4th of July, on the 4th!
Learn more about this event
Lebanon Star Spangled Celebration – July 4, 2017
Fireworks over Cheadle Lake! Celebrate Independence Day with music and fun for the entire family, all on July 4th, starting at 6:00 p.m. at Cheadle Lake Park. Admission is $10 per carload or $3 pp for walk-ins. Games and prizes for children. Food booths, jugglers, face-painting and magicians. Please, no pets. For more information and contact email, use the link below.
Learn more about this event
Other fun things to do
East Albany Lion’s Club Lumberjack Breakfast – July 1 – 4, 2017
Get your sausage, eggs, pancakes, and coffee on at Timber Linn Park. The breakfast starts each day at 6:00 a.m. and lasts until the last pancake is flipped at 11:00 a.m. All proceeds from the four day event go to local charities and the Lion’s sight and hearing program.
Learn more about this event
Albany Civic Theater “Red, White and Tuna” – July 6, 7, 8, 2017
The much anticipated third installment in the Tuna trilogy takes the audience through another satirical ride into the hearts and minds of the polyester clad citizens of Texas’ third smallest town. It’s been several years since we left Bertha and Arles dancing at the end of A Tuna Christmas. Did the romance blossom? Has Didi Snavley received any cosmic communications from R.R.’s UFO? Did Stanley make his fortune in the Albuquerque taxidermy business? These and other burning questions will be asked and answered in the side-splitting spoof of life in rural America.
River Rhythms – Pablo Cruise Concert – July 6, 2017
Spread out a blanket and enjoy music under the stars at Monteith Riverpark. Groove to the music of major stars from across the US. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are children’s activities prior to the concerts, an adult beer garden, food, a bike valet, and trolley rides around downtown. Thursday evenings, 5:30 – 9:00, at Monteith River Park. July through August.
Learn more about this event
Crazy Daze – July 6 – 8, 2017
You don’t want to miss Crazy Daze, July 6th – 8th, Downtown Albany’s oldest event. Originally called Bargain Days in 1898, the name was changed to Crazy Daze after WWII. Merchants will be setting out their merchandise on the sidewalks throughout Downtown, offering them 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.
Learn more about this event
Five things to do in Albany Memorial Day Weekend
For those popping in for a quick visit to our city and for those of us that live here, here’s a short list of things to do over the long weekend. As always, you can visit our what to do and see other ideas, but we thought maybe you’d like to grab some information and go!
1) Visit a Willamette Valley winery for some great tasting opportunities all weekend long. If you love our award winning Oregon wines and plan on having a few free days around Memorial Day Weekend, explore the tasting experience at a local Willamette Valley winery.
If you’re staying close by, Marks Ridge Winery in Sweet Home (pictured above) boasts the best views in the Willamette Valley at their high ridge-top tasting room. They’re offering a special weekend of tasting on the holiday weekend, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, from noon to 5:00 p.m. The winery is located at 29255 Berlin Rd in Sweet Home.
2) Get a jump on the weekend and visit “Springtime at the Roost” on Friday and Saturday, May 26 and 27, at 10:00 a.m. This is a delightful short trip into the countryside of North Albany for a shopping paradise at the Vintage Roost. Antiques, collectibles, baked goods and hand-fashioned home and garden decor by 30 local crafters. Located in a charming restored 100+ year old barn at 935 NW Scenic Drive. Parking available on Scenic Dr, driveway available to drop off customers. Call 541-990-4191 for more information.
3) Do old coins and tokens fascinate you? It’s a great pastime to introduce the kids to. The Mid-Valley Coin, Currency, and Token Show will run on Saturday and Sunday May 27 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission. Early admittance is offered for $25 at 8 a.m. Saturday only. It will be held at the Linn County Fair and Expo Center: 3700 Knox Butte Road, Albany Oregon. For more information, call Monte at 503-769-7183.
4) For those competitive athletes, how about the Sweet Home Hero Half Marathon? Held on Saturday, May 27, at 10:00 a.m. Bring your family, camp in the Willamette Valley, and spend your memorial day honoring our Military Heroes. Register to run a half marathon, 8K, or mini half (1.3 miles). Registration now available at GetMeRegistered.com.
5) On Sunday, May 28, why not take in a matinee at the Albany Civic Theatre? The musical Sweeney Todd is sure to fascinate and entertain. Performances run through the weekend but the Sunday matinee starts at 2:30 pm. Visit www.albanycivic.org for ticket information. The theater is located at 111 First Ave SW.
What to do in Oregon in 2017
Get ready for an Oregon year to be remembered! Many travelers will visit Oregon for the very first time—particularly in late August when a Total Solar Eclipse will occur on the 21st. Oregon’s Willamette Valley is prime TSE viewing territory, and many locales along the eclipse route will feature special viewing activities, food, celebration, and drink, including Albany.
The new 2017 Oregon Events Calendar, published by Pamplin Media Group, can help you plan your vacation—whether you hail from New York or Newberg. The Albany Visitors Association will have a supply of the publication at their office soon, but until we do, check out the digital edition.
In addition to the eclipse, Oregon is home to numerous annual music festivals, cycling and paddling relays, brew smackdowns, winery and culinary tours, and other venues to taste and experience our state in an entirely new way throughout the year. So come on, join us this year in Albany, Oregon.
*For print copies, please contact AVA at 541-9288-0911. Copies can be mailed, or you can stop by the office at 3rd and Lyon Streets in Downtown Albany, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
New Year’s Eve local celebrations
Holiday Night time Magic: It’s the last two days for Albany’s holiday light displays. Come on down to the AVA office (open Friday, 12/30 unit 5:00 p.m.) for a map of participating homes and winners, or connect to the blog post and download your own map.
Hoof n’ Holler New Years Eve Bulls, Broncos, and Dance: On New Year’s Eve, come on out to the Linn County Fair & Expo Center in Albany for a wild and wooly evening celebration. The fun starts at 6:00 p.m. A dance follows the show and a balloon drop occurs at midnight. Have fun and take a “designated driver” ride home. For ticket information visit http://hoofnholler.com
High Steppin’ Country New Year’s Eve Party: For a $10 cover charge, The Still, at 220 SW Second Avenue in Albany, is hosting a dance party featuring country and rock music by DJ Rockin’ Robin. The events starts at 8:00 p.m. and reservations are recommended. Telephone 971-404-9200 for more information.
Boulder Falls Inn New Years Eve Bash: Join the fun from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. at the Boulder Falls Inn in Lebanon (505 Mullins Drive). The event includes a casino, raffle prizes, heavy appetizers and desserts, a performance by Fate 55, fun photo booth, and champagne toast at midnight. Ticket prices start at $75. For more information http://www.boulderfallsinn.com
Night Time Magic light display winners
Ladies and Gentleman! Announcing the “Night Time Magic” light contest winning displays! For all of those participating, we extend our greatest thanks for your participation. The following four light displays were selected by the judges:“Lights of the Polar Express,” 3849 Oakmont Loop NE, Albany, OR 97322.
“WATT-A-SHOW” (light up the darkness), 2035 Jefferson St SE, Albany, OR 9732.
“Snowman Land,” 255 Country Club Ln NW, Albany OR 9732.
“Light up the Night,” 1327 NW North Albany Rd, Albany, Oregon 97321.
Winners will receive a Winner Award Certificate and a $50 gift card to Albany’s downtown first-run movie house: The Pix Theatre. Photos of the winning homes will be on display at the Pix Theatre and on the Albany Visitors Association website along with a list of locations to see. Winners will also be entitled to bragging rights for the entire year! Thank you to all the homeowners who participate in this program. Without your efforts, this wonderful community tradition would not be possible.
The winners of the Night Time Magic Program are determined by a panel of judges who conduct individual random drive-by sightings between December 8 and 15. Homes must be nominated to win.
This is the 29th year that the Albany Visitors Association has been helping to make the holidays bright with the Annual Night Time Magic Holiday Light Program. All nominations receive recognition for participation in Albany’s Night Time Magic program.
The reward for participation: Your holiday spirits will be lifted, your home brightened, your neighborhood enlightened and your community enlivened. If you are interested in being a part of Historic Albany’s “Magic” for 2017’s contest, contact the Albany Visitors Association, 110 3rd Ave SE, or telephone 541-928-0911 to receive future announcements.
Map of the displays
Feel free to download a PDF of the 2016 light display map. If you would rather have one mailed to you, contact us at 541-928-0911 or stop by the AVA office at 3rd and Lyons.
Past winners
2015:
- 222 Fourth Avenue SE, Albany OR 97321
- 1000 Lincoln St SW, Albany OR 97321
- 2905 Lawnridge St SW, Albany OR 97321
- 140 First Avenue West, Albany, Oregon 97321
2014:
- 627 Broadalbin SW, Albany OR 97321
- 4160 Evergreen Street SE, Albany OR 97322
- 2110 Geary Street SE, Albany OR 97322
- 2670 Kingston Way NW, Albany OR 97321
- Washington Street houses, block 600
2013:
- 514 NE 13th Ave.
- Santa on the rooftop view from bridge & Water Ave.
- 5th Avenue SW, block 800
- 630 Seventh Avenue SW
2012:
- 1001 Washington SW decked out again for 2014
- 1830 12th Avenue SW
- 3407 Pacific Blvd SW
- 6127 Piedmont Pl. SW
- 4295 Clay Place SE
2011
- 730 Washington SW
- 425 6th Ave SW
- 2893 E Mountain View Dr SE
- 1340 NE Mayview Dr.
Albany Holiday Events Special Calendar
‘Tis the Season
Although we have several ways for you to view our upcoming events, including Featured Events and the full calendar, you might like to print this handy PDF of our 2016 Holiday Events for November and December. If you don’t have a printer, no fear! Stop on in to the AVA office and we will be happy to give you one… or, give us a call at 541-928-0911 and we’l mail you one.
Newsletter subscription contest
Spam? No Ma’am! Our Albany Visitors Association e-newsletter is full of great ideas for visitors, new residents, and terrific events and places for family outings. We’ve got you covered, no matter the season. And, we’ll never sell your email address to anyone.
Special November Subscription contest
For e-news subscribers who sign up during the month of November, your name will be entered into a drawing for a free Holiday Nosh Tour ticket (Value $45.00) Wind your way through an Albany evening on a delicious tour of culinary delights aboard the Trolley. The Nosh Tour is scheduled for Saturday, December 17th, and we’re holding a ticket for one lucky new subscriber.
