Celebrate the Magic of December and
Ring in the New Year in Albany, Oregon

There’s still time to enjoy Albany’s magical holiday season. Drive through neighborhoods glowing with lights, explore festive downtown shops, and take a photo beneath the towering holiday tree at Two Rivers Market. Then, ring in the new year with high-energy entertainment. Albany’s December events invite visitors and locals alike to wrap up the year in joyful, unforgettable ways.

The 49th annual Christmas Storybook Land with Pastega Lights continues through December 21 at the Linn County Expo Center. Open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and 5 to 8 p.m. on weekdays, this beloved indoor experience invites guests into a whimsical world of handcrafted storybook scenes, model trains, and holiday nostalgia. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole, blow the train whistle, and stroll past the glowing Victorian Village. Admission is free, but donations of non-perishable food are welcome to support Fish of Albany.

One of Albany’s favorite traditions, the Nighttime Magic Holiday Light Contest, continues through the end of the year. Now in its 38th year, this citywide celebration of holiday lights showcases beautifully decorated homes and storefronts throughout Albany. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, it's the perfect reason to take a scenic evening drive and feel the magic of the season.

To add to the fun, the Albany Visitors Association has created a Holiday Lights Scavenger Hunt as part of the event. Families and friends can search for cheerful features like snowmen, candy canes, and festive inflatables throughout the entries.

Print a light tour map from our website along with the scavenger hunt form, or download the free Albany Explorer App to get directions to each decorated home and see which downtown businesses are dressed for the holidays. After your tour, don’t forget to vote for your favorite display.

Albany’s historic districts — Monteith, Hackleman, and Downtown — glow with timeless beauty this time of year. Many homes are adorned with twinkling lights, wreaths, and holiday displays. Stroll the sidewalks and take in the festive charm of historic architecture dressed in holiday cheer.

Downtown Albany remains beautifully decorated through the end of December. Local shops are open for last-minute gifts, seasonal treats, and unique finds. At the heart of it all stands the giant tree at Two Rivers Market, shimmering with more than 6,000 lights — a must-see before the new year begins.

Join the Willamette Valley Concert Band for “Spirit of the Season,” a free community concert at the Russell Tripp Performance Center at Linn-Benton Community College on Saturday, December 20. Arrive early to hear the Christmas Tuba Choir play classic carols from 1:15 to 1:45 p.m., followed by a full performance by the concert band at 2 p.m. Enjoy festive music and joyful energy with family and friends at this heartwarming annual event.

For a high-energy celebration, head to the Hoof ’N Holler New Year’s Eve event at the Linn County Expo Center. This one-of-a-kind experience features bull and bronc riding by top competitors from across the country, followed by a dance party and midnight balloon drop. The heated arena offers a comfortable place to cheer on the action, and all ages are welcome. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the show beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $56 online, increasing to $62 at the door.