From chili cook-offs to archery competitions and meaningful community gatherings, there's plenty to check out around Albany this weekend! Oregon State Indoor Archery Championships Join Oregon Bow Hunters at the Linn County Expo Center for the 2026 Oregon State Indoor Championships, held during the Willamette Sportsman Show. This 3-day competition features standard NFAA 5-spot rounds and brings together archers from across the state. The event also includes the Oregon High School Archery League Indoor Championships, taking place on Friday, January 30.Date: January 30 – February 1, 2026Time: Begins January 30 at 7:00 AMLocation: Linn County Fair & Expo // 3700 Knox Butte Rd E, Albany, Oregon 97322Cost: (view registration info) Learn More…

The City of Albany has entered 2026 with a clear mission: protecting the "natural beauty, cleanliness, and safety" of its 36 parks and nearly 900 acres of green space. Central to this effort is the Adopt-A-Park program, a long-standing initiative that invites residents, businesses, and civic groups to move beyond being spectators and become active stewards of the city’s land. While the city provides the resources, it is the community that provides the heart. This past week, that heart was on full display as the Graffiti Chasers officially kicked off the 2026 season with a massive win for local trails. The Mission: A One-Two Punch for City Trails The momentum began on Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Monday, Jan 19), when volu…

Start your weekend in Albany with fun, creativity, and community connection. Albany Civic Theater Presents: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Albany Civic Theater brings a gripping adaptation of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde to the stage, based on the classic tale by Robert Louis Stevenson. Directed by Dan Bushong, the production follows the chilling transformation of Dr. Henry Jekyll as he unleashes his darker alter ego, Edward Hyde, through dangerous scientific experimentation. Doors open 45 minutes before showtime.Date: January 23–25, 2026Time: 7:30 PM (Jan. 23 & 24), 2:30 PM Matinee (Jan. 25)Location: Albany Civic Theater // 111 1st Ave. W, Albany, OR 97321Cost: $18 (view ticket information)Learn More Oregon Mid-W…

For the first time in thirteen years, the skyline of eastern Albany looks—and will soon sound—whole again. On the morning of Friday, January 16, a crane carefully hoisted a 1,500-pound historic bell into the newly restored belfry of the Cumberland Community Event Center, marking one of the most significant milestones in the building’s 134-year history. The installation was more than just a construction feat; it was the culmination of a rescue mission that began in 2000 when the 1892 Victorian-style church was slated for demolition. Saved by the community and eventually moved to its current location at the corner of Santiam Road and Pine Street in 2021, the building has been undergoing a meticulous, piece-by-piece restoration…

From hands-on art events to local history tours and community celebrations, here’s what’s happening around Albany this weekend, January 16–18. Cumberland Bell Installation Be part of a special moment in Albany history as the bell is installed at the Cumberland Community Event Center. Join the community on Friday morning to witness the installation, with guided tours of the building available before and after the event.Date: January 16, 2026Time: 8:00 AMLocation: Cumberland Community Event Center // 1400 Santiam Rd SE, Albany, OR 97321Cost: FREE Learn More Black History in Benton County Tour Explore the untold stories of Oregon’s early Black pioneers during this engaging 45-minute tour at the Corvallis Museum. Led by a trained docent, the to…

Albany cyclists just got a major infrastructure boost thanks to the initiative of a local teen. Two permanent, public-use bike repair stations were officially installed this month at Henderson Park and Grand Prairie Park, filling a long-standing gap in the city’s outdoor amenities. The project was spearheaded by Thor Halchishick, a 17-year-old Eagle Scout candidate from Troop 100. After noticing that local riders had nowhere to perform quick repairs during rides—a service common in nearby Corvallis—Halchishick took it upon himself to pitch the idea to the Albany Parks and Recreation Department. "My goal was to make it so local riders could stop by and easily prop up their bike for quick repairs while at th…

There’s a full weekend of local events happening in Albany, from hands-on crafts and pet meetups to live music and motorsports. Preserving An 1892 Treasure Join event coordinator Karen Caswell and local historian Emma Eaton for an engaging presentation on the history and restoration of Albany’s cherished Cumberland Church. Their talk, titled “Preserving an 1892 Treasure and Repurposing it for the Future,” will explore the building’s past, its relocation, and exciting plans for its future. Hosted at the Albany Main Library, this informative midday event is free to attend.Date: January 9, 2026Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PMLocation: Albany Main Library // 2450 SE 14th Ave., Albany, OR 97322Cost: FREE Learn More Arenacross 2026 After a long hiatus, t…

The roar of engines is returning to the Willamette Valley in a major way this week. After a multi-year hiatus, the Albany/Salem Arenacross Series is set to launch its 2026 season right here in Albany, transforming the Linn County Expo Center into a high-flying dirt battleground starting this Wednesday, January 7. This event promises a weekend of intense indoor motocross action, catering to both adrenaline-seeking spectators and local riders ready to test their skills on the track. FOR THE FANS: A Weekend of High-Octane Action If you are looking for exciting, affordable family entertainment to kick off the new year, the Expo Center is the place to be this weekend. The series features a mix of amateur talent and seasoned pros naviga…

From early New Year's Eve parties to live music and Sunday fun, there's plenty of opportunities to ring in the new year! Sensory Friendly Mornings The Historic Carousel & Museum welcomes guests with sensory sensitivities every Wednesday for a gentle and inclusive experience. During Sensory Friendly Mornings, the carousel runs at a slower speed and the music is turned down, creating a calm and welcoming environment for all. Date: December 31, 2025Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PMLocation: Historic Carousel & Museum // 503 1st Ave. W, Albany, OR 97321Cost: FREE Learn More Early Countdown Party Ring in the New Year a little early at Deluxe Brewing’s lively taproom celebration. Enjoy craft beer, specialty cocktails, tasty bit…

It’s time to dust off your running shoes for one of Albany’s favorite spring traditions! Registration is officially open for the 2026 iRun for Kids, the signature fundraiser for the Albany Public Schools Foundation (APSF). Scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026, this event brings hundreds of community members together at the West Albany High School track to support local teachers and students. Whether you're a serious racer or just looking for a fun morning walk with the family, there’s a place for you on the course. Races for Every Pace The iRun for Kids event offers three distinct distances to ensure everyone can participate: The 10-Mile Run: A challenging route for those looking to push their limits or train for upcom…

The holidays may be over, but the fun isn’t! Here are a few events in Albany you won’t want to miss this weekend. Friday Morning Veteran’s Breakfast Veterans are invited to gather for a warm meal, hot coffee, and meaningful conversation at Elmer’s Restaurant every Friday morning. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this welcoming breakfast offers a chance to share stories, create new friendships, and enjoy a sense of community.Date: December 26, 2025Time: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AMLocation: Elmer’s Restaurant // 2802 Santiam Hwy SE, Albany, OR 97322Cost: FREELearn More Oregon’s Trail of Tears Exhibit Now on display at the Albany Regional Museum, Oregon’s Trail of Tears is a powerful photography exhi…

What should the City of Albany prioritize over the next few years? From public safety and housing to economic growth and neighborhood vitality, the City of Albany is officially inviting residents to help shape the next chapter of the community’s future. The City is currently in the process of updating its 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, a foundational document that ensures the city’s mission and vision are backed by deliberate action and measurable goals. The Four Pillars of Albany The Strategic Plan is organized into four primary themes that guide every department's work and every dollar spent in the city budget: Great Neighborhoods: Focusing on livability, housing, and community connections. A Safe City: Prioritizing emergency services, di…

Help your little ones make a splash and build essential water safety skills in the new year! The Albany Parks & Recreation Department has announced that registration for its winter Evening Swimming Lessons is open. These lessons offer a perfect opportunity for local children to get comfortable and confident in the water right after the holidays. Key Class Details The sessions are held at the Albany Community Pool and cater to a wide range of ages and skill levels. Ages: Lessons are available for ages 6 months to 14 years old. Dates: Classes run on Tuesdays and Thursdays from January 6th through January 29th. Times: Multiple time slots are available between 6:00 PM and 7:40 PM. Cost: The session fee is $56 for in-city residents and $72 f…

The holiday season is in full swing, and Albany has a festive lineup of events to help you celebrate. From classic concerts to cozy community gatherings, here’s what’s happening this weekend! Deluxe Brewing Ugly Sweater Holiday Party Celebrate the season at Deluxe Brewing with festive drink specials, holiday cheer, and a dash of ugly! Join the fun by sporting your most outrageous holiday sweater—prizes will be awarded for the ugliest of them all. Bring a wrapped White Elephant gift (valued at $15 or less) to join in the gift exchange and keep the laughs going.Date: December 19, 2025Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PMLocation: Deluxe Brewing // 635 NE Water Ave, Suite B, Albany, OR 97321Cost: FREE Learn More Sleigh Bells Sing! Caroling at the Monteith H…

The City of Albany has officially launched its annual "If I Were Mayor..." Student Contest, inviting local students in grades 4 through 12 to share their creative visions for the city’s future. The 2025-2026 contest, organized in partnership with the Oregon Mayors Association (OMA), is a chance for Albany’s young people to step into the role of a government leader and share what they would do to improve the community. The Deadline is Fast Approaching Students must submit their entries—whether it's a poster, essay, or video—by the local deadline: March 2, 2026, at noon. Three Ways to Participate The contest is broken down into three categories based on grade level, allowing students to use different creative mediums to express their ide…

The holiday magic is in full swing at the Linn County Expo Center, where two of the Mid-Willamette Valley’s most cherished Christmas traditions have united to create one massive, unforgettable indoor spectacle. Christmas Storybook Land, celebrating its 49th year, is currently running, and for the second season, it is proudly featuring the famous Pastega Christmas Lights. This monumental merger has cemented the Linn County Expo Center as the region's ultimate destination for festive cheer, drawing over 50,000 visitors last season alone. A Four-Decade Legacy of Giving Christmas Storybook Land is an annual non-profit event that began with a simple dream shared by Albany resident Don Albright in 1976. Since 1977, the dedicated volunte…

Looking for festive fun around Albany this weekend? From holiday markets and concerts to Santa sightings and roller derby action, there's plenty to explore! Baby Cow Cuddles & Christmas Cheer Ropp Family Farm invites the community for a day of holiday cheer, baby cow cuddles, and festive shopping. Guests can meet Meradith the Jersey and Felecia the Shorthorn, enjoy photo ops, feed and pet the animals, and explore the final day of the farm’s Christmas Barn—featuring handcrafted gifts, décor, and treats. The Sippin’ Soda Shop will be on-site with their Cattle Trailer Soda Fountain, serving up themed sodas and warm holiday drinks available for purchase. A fun, free outing for all ages!Date: December 13, 2025Time: 9:00 AMLocation: Ropp Fami…

Last week’s advisory commission meetings set the policy stage for Albany, yielding forward-looking discussions on historic preservation standards and key oversight functions for public safety. These sessions directly precede major government activity scheduled for the current week. Historic Preservation Moves Forward The Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC) met on Wednesday, December 3, focusing on maintaining the integrity of Albany's architectural heritage: Porch Post Alterations Approved: The Commission formally approved a request for the historic review of exterior alterations at 517 9th Avenue SW. The project involves replacing front porch posts, a topic that spurred a close debate among Commissioners focused on ensuring the new style p…

If you have a young magician in the house, the Kadabra Magic Academy is offering a fun and confidence-building Magic Camp this season at the Riverfront Community Center. Kids will get hands-on experience learning illusions while building creativity, stage presence, and self-confidence. Each camp includes eight exciting lessons where students learn beginner-friendly tricks using exclusive props, top-secret files, and materials they can practice with at home. Every camper also takes home their very own magic kit, making it easy to keep learning long after the day is done. Magic Camp Details• Date: December 13• Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.• Location: Riverfront Community Center• Ages: 7 to 13• Cost: $99 (in-city) or $129 (non-city)• Supply Fee: $40…

Get ready for a weekend full of holiday cheer, family fun, and community traditions in Albany! Albany Civic Theater Presents: Barefoot in the Park The Albany Civic Theater kicks off its December performances with Barefoot in the Park, a charming romantic comedy by Neil Simon. Directed by Becky Roth, the story follows newlyweds Corie and Paul Bratter as they navigate the ups and downs of married life in their quirky Manhattan apartment. Evening shows begin at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday matinees start at 2:30 p.m. Doors open 45 minutes before showtime. Date: December 5–7, 2025Time: 7:30 PM (Friday & Saturday); 2:30 PM (Sunday Matinee)Location: Albany Civic Theater // 111 1st Ave. W, Albany, OR 97321Cost: $18 (view ticket informatio…

A significant new public transportation option has arrived in the Willamette Valley with the launch of the 99 Vine bus route by Pacific Crest Bus Lines. This pilot project, a collaborative effort between Benton and Yamhill counties, aims to enhance regional connectivity by providing a convenient, ticket-free service linking McMinnville to the Eugene Airport along Highway 99W. The 99 Vine route operates four times daily, Monday through Friday, offering residents and students a reliable way to travel for errands, family visits, and access to numerous higher education institutions. Crucially, no tickets are required, making the service highly accessible to all. "This new service is a fantastic step forward for regional…

Check out what's happening in Albany this weekend as we officially kick off the holiday season right after Thanksgiving! From family fun to holiday shopping, there are plenty of local activities for the whole family. Black Friday Bubbles Brunch Skip the leftovers and treat yourself to a relaxing Black Friday Bubbles Brunch at Wine Crush. Guests will start with a shared plate of pastries, followed by fresh fruit and yogurt, then enjoy an entrée of their choice: Vegetable & Cheese Frittata, Spinach & Bacon Quiche, or a sweet Dutch Baby topped with fruit. Reservations are required, and beverages—including coffee, tea, juices, sparkling wine, and a variety of mimosas—will be available for purchase separately.Date: November 28, 2025Time:…