Holiday Highlights and Winter Wonders
December in Albany, Oregon

As holiday lights brighten downtown and festive storefronts begin to glow, Albany transforms into a charming winter destination. Local shops across the city offer seasonal specials and open houses, creating the perfect opportunity to discover unique gifts and enjoy a more relaxed holiday shopping experience.

Plan your visit around upcoming events, savor a meal at one of Albany’s welcoming restaurants, and take in the sights, sounds, and flavors that make the season in Albany feel so magical. 

Step into a world of holiday magic at the 49th annual Christmas Storybook Land with Pastega Lights open now through December 21 at the Linn County Expo Center. Visit the display 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and 5 p.m to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. This free indoor display features more than 150 handcrafted scenes from nursery rhymes, fairy tales, and holiday favorites, along with two large model train layouts. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole, blow the train horn, and stroll through a festive Victorian Village.

You can also admire the Pastega Lights, which moved from the Benton County Fairgrounds in Corvallis to Albany last year. Donations of non-perishable food are accepted to support Fish of Albany. 

Each winter, Albany transforms into a twinkling wonderland filled with lights, color, and community spirit. Now in its 38th year, the Nighttime Magic Holiday Light Contest invites homeowners to showcase their creativity — and gives residents and visitors a reason to explore the city with fresh eyes.

Drive through Albany’s neighborhoods to see enchanting displays that sparkle with holiday cheer, then vote for your favorite. The Albany Visitors Association curates a citywide map of all entries, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the self-guided tour.

Is your home decked out for the season? Join the fun. Submit your display by December 8 using the participant form for a chance to win festive prizes, generously provided by PARR Lumber Albany. 

Whether you’re lighting up your block or bundling up to explore, Nighttime Magic brings the whole community together to celebrate the season — one glowing display at a time.

The Downtown Twice Around Christmas Parade brings lights, music, and holiday cheer to Historic Downtown Albany on Sunday, December 6. The parade begins promptly at 5 p.m., rain or shine, and winds through the heart of downtown with festive fun for all ages.

Watch for the Albany Trolley, decorated floats, school groups, local businesses, and community organizations, all leading up to a special appearance by Santa on Albany’s antique fire truck. After the parade, enjoy free cookie decorating and gather around the downtown Christmas tree, glowing with more than 6,000 sparkling lights.

Bundle up, bring your holiday spirit, and find the full parade route at AlbanyDowntown.com.

Legacy Ballet’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker returns to the Albany Performing Arts Center for four performances from December 5 through 7. This timeless holiday classic features graceful dancing, colorful costumes, and the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince — a perfect seasonal outing for the whole family.

Showtimes are 7 p.m. on December 5, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on December 6, and 2 p.m. on December 7. Tickets are $15 at LegacyBallet.com.