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See Albany, Discover Oregon
10 ways to celebrate August in Linn County
July ends with a bang and August starts with a golden glow as wheat fields are harvested and outdoor fun goes full tilt. The following are 10 ways to celebrate and participate in harvest season with friends and family. We’re pretty sure you’ll find at least one to add to your calendar!
(1) July 28th The Albany Historic Homes Interior Tour Spend a wonderful day in our city exploring some of our most beautiful historic homes and buildings. The tour is “self-guided,” meaning you have a choice about how to tour the homes—you can ride a horse-drawn wagon or antique trolley and go by location-number, or you can opt to drive your own car and visit homes in any order you like. Hosts will be on hand at each site to show guests around and refreshments will be served. Once you’ve purchased your ticket at our office, you might even want to have lunch at one of our great restaurants, ride the carousel, and join the tour afterwards. Tickets go on sale the day of the tour starting at 10:00 a.m. for $15 each; children under 12 are free. For more information, telephone AVA at 541-928-0911. (You can also purchase tickets on AVA’s secure website at https://albanyvisitors.com/…/2018-albany-historic-interior…/ )
(2) July 29th It’s time for the annual Festival Latino at Monteith River Park in Albany. Spend the afternoon, from Noon to 4:00 p.m., listening to great music, enjoying awesome food, and meeting your neighbors. The festival features a children’s activities area, a health and resources fair, and cultural performances. The festival is free to attend (food is available for purchase).
(3) August 3rd Love Celtic music and local wines? Combine your true loves into a Friday evening out! The Dinna Fash Celtic Trio is performing at Mark’s Ridge Winery on Friday, August 3rd, starting at 7:00 p.m. The winery is located at 29255 Berlin Rd in Sweet Home. Visit the winery website for more info: http://www.marksridge.com
(4) Now Through August 4th Happening now at the Albany Civic Theater: “Bell, Book and Candle.” The classic fairytale about a lovable witch comes to the stage. Tickets are available for upcoming performances on July 27, 28, 29 and August 2, 3, and 4. Visit the ACT website for ticket info: http://www.albanycivic.org
(5) August 3rd through 5th: Sweet Home calls all country music lovers for the Oregon Jamboree. This year’s stars include Clint Black, Brantley Gilbert, and Brett Eldredge. This not-to-be-missed musical event boasts two stages, 25 shows, over three days. The Oregon Jamboree is nestled in the foothills of the scenic Cascade Mountains, on 20-plus acres that includes the historic Weddle Covered Bridge. The Jamboree offers a full festival atmosphere in the main venue and a more intimate concert experience on the second stage in Sankey Park. In addition to featured headline entertainment, this event hosts RV and tent camping, merchandise vendors, food booths, beer and wine gardens, and a variety of other attractions. For ticket and other information, visit: http://oregonjamboree.com
(6) August 4th through 5th Time to mark your calendars and get your tickets: The Mother Earth News Fair is coming up on August 4th and 5th at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center in Albany. Two days of workshops on renewable energy, small-scale farming, homesteading, natural health, organic gardening and more! Come enjoy delicious food, family entertainment and a vast marketplace. Check the fair’s website to purchase tickets in advance, and for more detailed information. https://www.motherearthnews.com/…/mother-ea…/albany-ore-fair
(7) August 8th Do you have ancestors or family that settled in Albany? Would you like some tips on researching your Linn County family tree? Then mark Wednesday, August 8th at noon on your calendar. The Albany Regional Museum will host its monthly “History Bites” series and the Linn Genealogical Society will present. For more info visit https://www.armuseum.com
(8) August 18th Join the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum as they celebrate their one year anniversary with a carousel fundraiser: Carnival at the Carousel. Just as the nostalgia of the carousel lights the faces of those who visit, we hope that the nostalgia of a vintage carnival will do the same. Come see carnival games of the past, old-fashioned carnival characters, a cakewalk, carousel-made photo-boards and kissing booth, Kona Ice, Kettle Korn, and a bounce house. For more information visit www.albanycarousel.com
(9) August 19th The first of Albany’s 2018 Farm to Table Dinners takes place on Saturday, August 19th. Dine al fresco along a shaded historic waterway—the Albany 8th Street Canal. Feast on delectable creations by Chef Matt Bennett of Sybaris Bistro and sip locally-grown and crafted Springhill Cellars Winery selections. The menu is based on Cajun Creole cuisine inspired by Chef Bennett’s recent trip to New Orleans. Seating at the dinner is limited and we encourage you to purchase your tickets early for what will no doubt, be a sold-out event. Dinner proceeds will benefit the Albany Regional Museum (ARM) and enable them to continue to offer free admission to all visitors. Hop on over to ARM’s website and get your tickets now! https://squareup.com/store/albany-regional-museum
(10) Aug 24th through August 26th The NW Art & Air Festival may be the the best little late summer festival around! Watch hot air balloons ascend the night sky during the magical night glow event and early dawn flights. The balloon regatta is a colorful affair and Timber Linn Park will be alive with music, artists, family activities (including Young Eagle Flights) and yummy food from a variety of vendors. Musical artists (featuring this year’s headliner “Goo Goo Dolls”) give evening performances. For the adults, there’s a wine and microbrew garden. The festival is free, but parking is $5. Learn more at: http://nwartandair.org
Albany Farm to Table Dinners – 2018 Series
The first of Albany’s 2018 Farm to Table Dinners takes place on Sunday, August 19th. Dine al fresco along a shaded historic waterway—the Albany 8th Street Canal.
Feast on delectable creations by Chef Matt Bennett of Sybaris Bistro and sip locally-grown and crafted Springhill Cellars Winery selections. The menu is based on Cajun Creole cuisine inspired by Chef Bennett’s recent trip to New Orleans.
Seating at the dinner is limited and we encourage you to purchase your tickets early for what will no doubt, be a sold-out event. Dinner proceeds will benefit the Albany Regional Museum and enable them to continue to offer free admission to all visitors.
Tickets
Purchase your tickets online with the Albany Regional Museum.
2018 Albany Historic Interior Home Tour
Spend a wonderful day on Saturday, July 28th, exploring some of Albany’s most beautiful historic homes and buildings. The tour is “self-guided,” meaning you have a choice about how to tour the sites—you can ride a horse-drawn wagon or antique trolley and go in map order, or you can opt to drive your own car and visit homes and buildings in any order you like.
Greeters will be on hand at each site to show guests around and refreshments will be served. Once you’ve secured your ticket at our office, you might want to have lunch at one of our great restaurants, ride the carousel and join the tour afterwards.
Tickets are on sale the day of the tour (at AVA’s office) starting at 10:00 a.m. for $15 each; children under 12 are free. We are located on the corner of Lyon and 3rd Ave SE (110 3rd Ave, SE). You can also prepay for your ticket on our secure-certificate ticketing plug-in below. (Some fields are required so that we may confirm your purchase.) Telephone our office at 541-928-0911 if you have any questions.
10 things to do in Mid-July
Looking for some great things to do following the start of mid-summer? We thought you might like this list of some great Albany and Linn County events coming up this July. Don’t hesitate to contact AVA (541-928-0911) if you need more information about any of the following:
1) Crazy Daze in Downtown Albany – July 12th, 13th, 14th Love to dig around for a bargain? Well how about a downtown-wide sale with many of your favorite stores hosting sidewalk sales! Park your car at one end of First Ave and walk towards the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum, which you can ride after shopping. Unique shops will feature awesome merchandise—including the Natty Dresser, Emma’s Downtown, Urban Ag, Spirit Beads, and many many others. Merchandise changes daily over the three day event, plus Albany restaurants and cafes will feature shopper specials. Tidbit: What’s really cool about this sale is that it is part of Albany’s history—the sale started out as Bargain Days in 1898, then was renamed Crazy Daze following WW2.
2) Coffee, coffee, coffee – Grand Opening of Margin Coffee – July 14th The wait may have been long, but the moment has finally arrived. Albany’s newest gourmet-hip coffee brewery is holding its grand opening celebration at their location (206 2nd Ave SW) in a beautifully restored historic building. Come enjoy specialties of the house made with local roaster Caravan’s beans. Saturday hours on the 14th are from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. so you can shop at Crazy Daze and refuel at Margin! Visit their website at www.margincoffee.com
3) Meet me at the Linn County Fair – July 18th – 21st You know it’s high summer when the fair arrives at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center. There will be rides for kids both big and small, fun food, livestock, quilts, community art and craft, and live entertainment including Jefferson Starship. Family fun areas, a classic car show, the zany Redneck Rodeo, and so much more are scheduled over the four day event. Special military, senior, and family day tickets are available. Check the fair website for the full schedule at https://www.linncountyfair.com/home
4) History Through Headstones Tour – July 25th Come learn about the history of Albany through historic headstones at the Waverly Jewish and Houston Cemeteries. The tour is from 7 p.m. to dusk. The AVA trolley will board passengers at the Albany Regional Museum parking lot (check the museum website for times) and museum docent Bill Maddy will talk about the history of east Albany’s Hackleman District as the trolley wends its way through neighborhoods and along Old Salem Road. Learn about the historic Albany families that will be featured on the Albany Regional Museum website at www.armuseum.com/…/…/history-through-headstones-tour
5) Cellar Cat swings at its new location – July 15th At the end of June, wine-centric bistro Cellar Cat moved to its new location at 155 NW Country Club Lane in Albany. They now feature an all-day kitchen menu serving scratch-made goodies to enjoy on the golf course, patio, dining room, by the pool or take-out. Full-service dinner is Wednesday through Sunday starting at 4:30 p.m. And, on Sundays, live music! On July 15th, the Steve Willis Trio will play instrumental jazz starting at 5:30 p.m. Check out CC’s website for the rest of the Sunday line-ups of music and fantastic menu options. www.cellarcat.com
6) Movies at Monteith Park – July 20th (Fridays through August) Looking for a nostalgic evening after dinner? Plan to bring a blanket and the family to free movies shown outdoors on a big screen under the summer stars. The first movie of the summer, Wonder, starts at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 20th. On Friday, July 27th, Jurassic Park hits Monteith Park. For the full schedule, check the Albany Downtown Association website at albanydowntown.com/ada-event/movies-at-monteith/
7) Stand By Me Day – July 23rd Speaking of movies, what could be better than visiting the little town where the cult classic, Stand By Me, was filmed? Head on down to historic Brownsville (about 25 minutes south of Albany) and participate in walking tours, free showings of the movie, and other festivities like a blueberry pie and ice cream social, classic car cruise-in, fan forum, memorabilia, and a 50s costume contest. Check out the full schedule at historicbrownsville.com/what-to-do/attractions/stand-by-me/
8) Cocker Spaniel National Specialty Show – July 26th through 30th Have you ever seen the Walt Disney classic movie “Lady and the Tramp?” The 1950s animated film reflected US mid-century popularity of the Cocker Spaniel, a long-eared, silky-coated, and expressive dog. First mentioned in 14th century writings, the Cocker Spaniel perseveres. Come see these beautiful intelligent dogs at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center over three days of trials and judging. Visit the association club website for show schedule details at www.americanspanielclub.org/events/2018-cocker-spaniel-national/
9) Albany Historic Homes Interior Tour – July 28th Spend a wonderful day in our city exploring some of our most beautiful historic homes and buildings. The tour is “self-guided,” meaning you have a choice about how to tour the sites—you can ride a horse-drawn wagon or antique trolley and go by location-number, or you can opt to drive your own car and visit homes in any order you like. Hosts will be on hand at each site to show guests around and refreshments will be served. Once you’ve purchased your ticket at our office, you might even want to have lunch at one of our great restaurants, ride the carousel, and join the tour afterwards. You’ll receive a wrist band with your paid ticket. Tickets go on sale the day of the tour starting at 10:00 a.m. for $15 each; children under 12 are free. For more information, visit albanyvisitors.com or telephone 541-928-0911.
10) Summer Sounds in the Park – Mondays in July Imagine relaxing outdoors on your own quilt or comfy folding chair and listening to great live music. Sip your own wine or beer, grab soft drinks and food from the vendor court, and take a stroll along the river-front with your sweetheart. The lineup this July runs the gamut from electric string pop to funk, swing, and an Eagles tribute band. The free concerts start at 7:00 pm. on Monday nights. For the full schedule, visit the City of Albany website at www.cityofalbany.net
Bonus) The 2018 -2019 “See Albany” Visitors Guides are here! In addition to a feature article by local journalist Jennifer Moody (about the Albany Historic Carousel’s Neal the Greyhound), you’ll also find information about great restaurants, comfy hotels, outdoor recreation, shopping venues, and Albany’s four National Historic Districts. Stop by the AVA office at 110 3rd St SE in downtown Albany to pick up your free copy or telephone 541-928-0911 and we’ll pop one in the mail for you.
A Berry Happy July
Albany – summertime farm visits
One of Albany’s agricultural gems, Midway Farms, is a bucolic organic farm and roadside stand on Hwy 20. As you drive towards Corvallis, the farm’s red barn peeks out from between shade trees and a riot of multi-colored snap dragons wave at passerby’s.
The farm store is bursting with an eclectic mix of seasonal harvests—from green onions and sweet greens to fall potatoes, tomatoes and garlic. Owner Cynthia Kapple, raises free-range poultry and sells fresh eggs from a variety of fowl, including duck, turkey, goose, and chicken.
Midway’s crowning glory of summer are their sweet succulent organic strawberries, blueberries and other seasonal fruit. Midway posts frequently on Facebook, so if you’re planning on making fresh jam, follow their page to find out when they run specials on flats. Depending on the bounty, Kapple may run a spontaneous jam-making sale.
The farm also provides fresh organic flowers for weddings and other special events. You can count on a beautiful array of flowers if you shop Kapple’s store. From multi-hued sunny daffodils, tulips, iris, and sunflowers to other seasonally-grown varietals, you can stop at their self-serve flower stand, grab a bouquet and skedaddle back home to set the dinner table.
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.
Ride the 2018 NW Tandem Rally
Get your gears spinning for the 2018 Northwest Tandem Rally (NWTR) coming up June 29th through July 4th. Hosted by the Mid Valley Bicycle Club (MVBC), the NWTR has been an annual event since 1986. The MVBC was founded in 1974 and has hosted this family friendly event four times previously.
If you’ve biked the Mid-Willamette Valley before, you’re most likely familiar with our abundance of quiet country roads through farmland and forests and up into the foothills of both the Cascades and Coast Range.
If this will be your first time in the Albany area, you’re in for a real treat. As all of the NWTR routes start in the Valley, there are lots of options for mostly flat rides, as well as hilly rides, and even a short climb or two into the mountains if your legs are up for it!
Albany, Oregon – 2018 rally’s home away from home
The 2018 Northwest Tandem Rally will be centered in the historic town of Albany, the “Gem of the Willamette Valley.” Albany is the eleventh largest city in Oregon and is located at the confluence of the Calapooia and Willamette Rivers. Founded in approximately 1848 the town has the most varied collection of historic buildings in Oregon.
While you are in town, make sure to visit the pioneer-era Monteith House and regional museums. Take the family to the Historic Albany Carousel & Museum or attend a River Rhythms outdoor concert on a Thursday summer evening.
Surrounding Albany is one of the most diversified agricultural areas of the state, featuring miles of quiet country roads, historic covered bridges, and a burgeoning wine, hops, and spirits industry. Schedule a visit to one of Albany’s incredible restaurants and vibrant coffee houses during your stay.
Stop by the Albany Visitors Association for maps, a visitors guide, and recommendations for family-friendly places to visit while you’re in town for the rally. AVA is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, and on Saturdays (9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) in the summer, and is located at 110 3rd Ave SE. Telephone 541-928-0911 for more information.
Accommodations and registration
Since the Fourth of July falls in the middle of the week this year, an extended rally is possible. You can stay an additional two days beyond the regular four-day schedule, and enjoy six days of riding through the scenic Willamette Valley. There’s even a bonus three or four day tour following the rally if you just can’t stop peddling.
For a full list of the NWTR accommodations, including the campgrounds at South Albany High School and rally hoteliers, and registration information, visit the 2018 NWTR website.
See you in Albany!
September Featured AVA Photographer
A huge shoutout to Mike Krutsinger of MKrutsinger Photography. Mike is our featured AVA photographer for September, and is volunteering with AVA to help give back to his community. His feature gallery reflects Albany Visitors Association’s summer Linn-Benton Farm-to-Table dinner that was held at Weddle Covered Bridge. It will give you a hint of what’s in store for next season!
*If you would like to contact Mike Krutsinger in regards to his commercial photography services, please email us.
Gallery
Click on any of the images to see better, You can exit the gallery at any time by pressing the escape key.
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- Weddle Covered Bridge
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- The rushing creek beneath Weddle Covered Bridge in Sweet Home, Oregon.
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- Before the guests arrive.
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- Sass Winery selections.
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- Setting up.
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- A bouquet of loveliness.
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- Crisp white linens.
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- Fresh from homegrown Albany, bouquet of crocosmia.
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- Delectable appetizers prepared by Chef Derek Ridgeway.
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- An assortment of appetizers welcomed diners.
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- Almost time.
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- Come sip with us and Sass Winery.
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- The crew from 1859 hard at work.
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- More yummy creations by Chef Ridgeway of Boulder Falls Inn 1859 Restaurant.
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- Almost ready – the gazpacho.
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- Delicious course, by Chef Derek Ridgeway.
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- Delicious!
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- The variety on the menu was amazing!
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- One of the items in the dinner.
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- Starting out the inner with salads and soup.
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- A musician accompanies the dinner.
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- AVA Executive Director Jimmie Lucht and his wife Nancy attended.
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- Gathering at the welcome reception.
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- A selection of Sass Winery.
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- Happy diners dig in.
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- Patty Louisiana.
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- A toast to summer!
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- Diners from far and wide.
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- 1859 Restaurant staff.
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- The stupendous team of 1859 Restaurant.
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- Jerry Sass of Sass Winery educates diners his varietals.
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- Plating food for 50 diners at once takes a team!
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- Did you leave room for dessert?
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- Dinner guests are happy!
Grand Opening – Albany Historic Carousel
Guest article by Jenny Bouman
Carousels bring out the kids in all of us, and on Tuesday August 15th, 2017, starting at 10:00 a.m., children of all ages will enjoy a fun-filled Grand Opening of the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum. The press and public are invited to celebrate the completion of the long awaited, 22,000 square foot, state of the art facility which is located at the corner of 1st Avenue SW and Washington Street SW.
The Carousel Board will be hosting the celebratory ribbon cutting event as a means of acknowledging and thanking the community for their tireless support towards the completion of this spectacular project – and to officially “open” the Carousel facility as a much anticipated local amenity, tourist attraction and event venue for residents and visitors to Albany.
“This is not just about the carousel,” said Carl Baker, lead engineer of the mechanism. “It’s about the community – so many people working together – that’s what this carousel is all about!”
The building will open immediately following the ribbon cutting and stay open until 7:00 p.m. Guests will be treated to a free ride (a boarding pass will be given out to each guest the day of the event, and is needed in order to get on the carousel this one day only). Free snacks, outdoor entertainment and kid activities will be available from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Overseen by a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to building a traditional carousel in Albany’s downtown historic district, this project is the centerpiece of the downtown revitalization effort. The grassroots project has been serving as an anchor for the Historic Downtown Commercial District and has gained attention and support each year with over 200,000 volunteer hours documented. Sponsors, donors and grantors continue to show their support through financial contributions, bringing this community project to fruition. Over 2,000 visitors on average visit the carousel project every month.
The carousel project began in 2002. Carving officially began on June 7, 2003. It has taken over 14 years to complete, all work has been done by hand by volunteers of all skill levels. The tradition will continue with additional animals to complete and repairs that will certainly be needed. No experience is necessary to volunteer and volunteers over the age of 14 are welcomed to fill out an application. Volunteers are still needed for all phases of the project, including carvers, office helpers, gift shop sales, concession sales, carousel operators, painters, sanders, fundraising and organizers.
For additional information on how to become a volunteer for the Albany Carousel please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator at albanycarouselvolunteers@gmail.com. To learn more about the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum visit our website at www.albanycarousel.com.
Hours
The Carousel Building is open five days per week (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays) with varied closing times — Wed – Thurs: 10AM – 7PM; Fri:i 10AM – 3PM; Sat: 10AM – 7PM; Sun: 10AM – 3PM.
According to Wendy Kirbey, whose dream sparked this project, “This is a place you can come to, where you don’t need a lot of money. You can bring your family and see something really spectacular and just spend an afternoon having fun. You don’t see a carousel like this everyday!”
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
Party in the Path – Total Solar Eclipse
In case you haven’t heard, a rare total solar eclipse (TSE) is scheduled to occur on Monday, August 21, 2017. Oregon is considered to be one of the premier viewing states as the TSE makes its path across the nation, and communities across the Willamette Valley are gearing up for amazing parties—and Albany, Oregon invites you to join us for the “Party in the Path.”
The Oregon TSE pathway
On the beach in Oregon, just north of Newport, the shadow will first touch land at about 10:15 a.m., and the coast will experience a full minute and fifty seconds of totality. The actual centerline of the eclipse path will hit solid ground six seconds later, and plunge Lincoln Beach and Depoe Bay into darkness for one minute and 58 seconds!
It will take only two minutes for the shadow to race eastward toward its first date with a large population of folks who will be breathlessly awaiting its arrival. Salem, Dallas, Albany, Corvallis, Lebanon, Philomath, McMinnville, and Woodburn, will experience various lengths of totality based on their varying distances from the centerline.
Albany’s total darkness will last for one minute and 52 seconds, at approximately 10:17 a.m. However, the eclipse itself will take about two hours from start to finish. And it’s during this active phase of the sun obscuring the moon, that you will need eye protection. (More on that later!)
Important informational video from Governor Kate Brown
Watch this video produced by Travel Oregon. It is full of information from our emergency services providers, including Oregon State Patrol, Dept. of Forestry, Oregon Department of Transportation, and others. You may have your questions answered about some of Oregon’s laws in regards to parking for viewing or forest and state parks rules and regulations during our peak fire season. Stay safe!
Join Us in Albany For Viewing Parties
Linn Benton Community College
The Linn-Benton Community College is hosting “Totality Inspired,” a two day Solar Eclipse Festival. Tent camping, star gazing, entertainment and activities Sunday, with breakfast for campers and eclipse viewing Monday. Camping: $40 per site for LBCC students, $100 per site for public, up to 4 per site. Sunday activities only: $5 for non-campers. Eclipse viewing is open and free. Camping reservations and details at linnbenton.edu/eclipse.
Albany Airport American Legion Party
Albany’s American Legion Post 10 is hosting a viewing party at the Albany Regional Airport on August 21st, starting at 6:00 a.m. Ticket-holders will be treated to a hot burrito breakfast, a comparative T-shirt, eclipse viewing glasses, and other amenities. For more information on ticket prices and event details, telephone the Legion at 541-926-0127, or visit their event Facebook page.
Total Eclipse of the Mall
Heritage Mall, Albany’s premier shopping center, is hosting a two-night stay for RV’s and trailers. Your three-day pass includes parking adjacent to the TSE viewing area, up to four pairs of eclipse viewing glasses, live music concerts in the evenings, exclusive shopping discounts, Fun Zone activities for children, and more. For ticket sales and more information, telephone 541-967-8238 or visit Heritage Mall’s Eclipse website.
Scio “Sol Wink Out” celebration
The covered bridge capital of the west, Scio is putting together a great three day celebration. There are multiple campsite opportunities, activities and fun events that will run from August 18th to the 22nd. There’s a dinner and dance on Saturday the 19th, featuring vintage rock and bluegrass, and a Chicken Dinner and Dance on Sunday the 20th, featuring live western swing music.
Great Solar Eclipse connections
For other information about viewing sites and events taking place across Oregon, visit Travel Oregon’s solar eclipse web page for the most up-to-date happenings.
Eclipse Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I obtain lodging in Albany?
A: Over a year ago, when it became widely know that Oregon is prime viewing territory, hotel rooms were snapped up. State parks and other camping venues were also reserved. It is almost impossible to find RV camping and parking across the Valley, but we do have a few recommendations:
- Camp and RV sites:
Lebanon, Oregon has dry campsites with limited RV hook-ups. For more information, contact Ronn Passmore at 541-990-0240 or email Ronn. The Lebanon Chamber of Commerce is also accepting informational calls at 541-258-7164. Benton County: Benton County is providing 150 tent sites & 12 dry RV sites at Adair County Park. For more information visit their website.
Albany, OR: Mighty Oaks Children’s Therapy is opening up their grounds at 3615 Spicer Drive SE for dry tent camping. You must make a reservation. Telephone 541-967-7551. Linn County Fair & Expo Center has full RV hook-up sites. Please visit the RV Booking site operated by the fairgrounds for more information. - Other campsite information may be found on our “where to stay” web page.
- Hotels:
Although most of our Albany area hotels are reporting there are no vacancies for the eclipse, there may be cancellations, so don’t despair. Connect to local lodging properties on our hotel web page to find their contact information. - Albany area RV Parks:
- Discover more possibilities of where to park your rig and near to the viewing party. Link to our RV web page.
- Digital concierge:
- Air BnB lists properties in the local Albany, Oregon vicinity. Some are within town, some in the countryside, and range from a single room to an entire house or cottage. Check it out.
Q: What other communities close to Albany are hosting events?
A: The list is quite extensive, as many of the prime viewing areas (regions where the view is unobstructed by trees and buildings) have planned to make an all-out celebration of the TSE. The best sources for the Willamette Valley are:
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Travel Salem: Our tourism partners at Travel Salem have established a clearinghouse for all TSE related events and information. Need more thoughts on where to stay? Want to know where to find an amazing TSE morning brunch? And what about a cocktail after a hard day of moon watching? It’s all at Travel Salem’s TSE Headquarters. - Travel Oregon: The Oregon Tourism Commission, DBA Travel Oregon (TO) and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) have partnered to help residents and visitors prepare for the TSE experience. TO is producing an Eclipse Guidebook with helpful tips and resources, which will include a pair of eclipse viewing glasses. The guide is set to release in early April. Visit Travel Oregon’s website for more TSE information and connections.
- Visit Corvallis: The folks at Visit Corvallis are helping to spread the word about TSE related events via their online calendar. If you have news that is TSE-related, visit their website for more information on how to submit your event.
- City of Lebanon: Cheadle Lake Park will be the site of four-days of celebration with train excursions, a concert, food vendors, and TSE presentations by educators. The event is still in the planning stages so be sure to check back for more information as the summer approaches.
- Historic Brownsville: Beautiful Historic Brownsville is home to the annual Bi-Mart Willamette Country Music Festival, featuring some of the biggest artists in country music. The festival is schedule over the weekend prior to the eclipse, and since the eclipse occurs on Monday morning following the festival’s final show, the WCMF organizers have planned a special extended campout for festival-goers, featuring an “Eclipse Breakfast.” The fee is $25 and you receive a pair of eclipse-viewing glasses, a fireman’s breakfast, and will be treated to music and entertainment. Contact the WCMF organizers for more information and to reserve your ticket. Telephone: 541-345-9263 or visit the WCMF website.
- Sweet Home: The City of Sweet Home is sponsoring a “Solar Eclipse 3.5 Mile Run.” All ages are welcome to participate. Strollers are welcome, but we ask that pets remain at home. If you are unable to participate in person, we encourage you to join the “Virtual Run.” These simultaneous race events are $25, and include a commemorative medal, chip-timed results, event race bibs, solar eclipse glasses, and Sun Tea and Moon Pies at the finish line! Online registration is available. For more information telephone 541-367-5128.
Q: Where can I find out scientific information for the family?
A: We think the following are perfect for educational materials on eclipses, as well as other resources for helping children learn more about this rare Oregon TSE:
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry: The OMSI website hosts an interactive Google map for the eclipse. Connect to the map.- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): Wow! NASA has really outdone themselves on their special 2017 TSE website. A full countdown clock, images, facts, eye safety, and just about everything you need science-wise is available right here.
We’ll be updating this page regularly, so check back if you don’t see what you’re looking for. Information on Albany’s TSE “Party in the Path” will also be placed on our featured events calendar and in our blogroll. Stay tuned for information on what local restaurants and shops will offer TSE specials, and for collectable merchandise. We hope to see you in Historic Albany for our viewing party.
Q: Are there vineyards in the area that I can visit for wine and eclipse fun?
A: Absolutely! You can count on the Willamette Valley (the 2016 Wine Enthusiast #1 Wine Destination Region in the world) for sublime views and amazing varietals. We will update the list below, as information becomes available:
Winery and vineyard special eclipse events
Brooks Winery Eclipse Event
August 20 & 21
21101 SE Cherry Blossom Lane, Amity, OR 97101
503-435-1278
www.brookswine.com/eclipse
Coria Estates ~ 2017 Solar Eclipse Festival
August 21
8252 Redstone Ave. SE, Salem, Oregon 97306
503-363-0525
www.coriaestates.com
Eola Hills Wine Cellars
August 19 & 21
501 S. Pacific Hwy 99W, Rickreall, OR 97371
503-623-2405 or 800-291-6730
www.eolahillswinery.com
Left Coast Vineyard Stroll Tasting Experience
August 19 & 20
4225 N Pacific Hwy. 99W, Salem, OR 97371
503-831-4916
www.leftcoastcellars.com/events
Solar Eclipse Open House Weekend ~ Willamette Valley Vineyards
August 19 & 20
8800 Enchanted Way, Turner, OR 97392
503-588-9463
www.wvv.com
St. Innocent Winery ~ Eclipse Extravaganza
August 21
Temperance Hill Vineyard
6020 Bethel Heights Rd. NW, Salem, OR 97304
503-378-1526
www.stinnocentwine.com
Vineyard Eclipse Party at Left Coast Cellars
August 21
4225 N Pacific Hwy. 99W, Salem, OR 97371
503-831-4916
www.leftcoastcellars.com/events
