Halloween has just passed, so it must be time for Christmas events! If you like that way of thinking, you’ll love these places to go and things to see that might bring you even further into the holiday spirit.
In Corvallis
The 2021 Holiday Craft Fair is Nov. 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Corvallis Elks Lodge at 1400 NW 9th St. You will find homemade crafts and baked goods from local artisans, and maybe that one special something you’ve been looking for to give to Mom. Entrance is free and masks are required, so be safe and give it a look.
From Nov. 20 to Dec. 5, you can participate in the ABC House’s 3rd Annual Holly Jolly 5K & Online Auction. Like last year, this will be a virtual event, but still very fun for all who want to run or walk a 5K on their own or with friends — there are prizes for largest team and highest fundraising team and individual. Register for the run by Nov. 5 to get a free t-shirt. When you’re not running, bid on a variety of great items at the online auction. This event supports children and families in need in Linn and Benton counties.
From Nov. 20 – 21, you can go to the CDA Holiday Bazaar and Country Store. This will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church at 501 NW 25th St, Corvallis, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Quality handmade gifts and treats can be found, as well as a delightful country store with vintage books.
From Dec. 3 – 4, Oregon State University will be holding the OSU Holiday Marketplace at the Memorial Union Ballroom at 2501 SW Jefferson Way. Going from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day and including live music, go and see what these 60 different exhibitors have to sell and grab a bite.
Nearby Events
On Nov. 4 and Nov. 7, come to Albany to see the holiday windows. From 5 – 8 p.m., downtown Albany businesses will be revealing a festive peek into stores with special sales. Kick off your holidays with dinner and the Ooo’s and Ah’s of the season.
If you find yourself in Alsea on Saturday, Dec. 4, then make your way over to the Alsea Hope Grange Hall at 27373 Alsea Deadwood Hwy for the Alsea Hope Grange Christmas Bazaar. This event happens from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plus, if you’re looking for a place to sell your own holiday wares, they still have booths available — call Samantha Pedder at 541-740-1596 for details.
Sunday, Dec. 5, the intersection of Broadbin St. and 2nd Ave. will see Albany’s Downtown Twice Around Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting. Beginning at 5 p.m. this event screams “bring the kids!” There will be lots of entertainment, food, and music to keep everyone entertained.
North of the Mid-Valley
If the holidays put you in the mind for music, then go on up to Portland for these amazing holiday themed shows.
First up is The Storm Large Holiday Ordeal at the Aladdin Theater on Nov. 26 and Nov. 27 at 8 p.m. Large made Oregon proud on Rock Star: Supernova — a reality TV show looking for a frontperson for a rock band. Large didn’t win that gig, but she won the admiration of her home state. This show should be exceptional.
Between Nov. 27 and Dec. 5, the Sunset Presbyterian Church on Cornell Rd will host The Singing Christmas Tree. This yearly event is very popular, featuring music for the season played by and sung by Oregonians. Times will vary by date, so make sure you have your tickets before making the trip north.
Nov. 28 brings the Trans-Siberian Orchestra to Portland for their yearly concert at the Moda Center. The Tampa, FL rock band founded in the mid-’90s has been a mainstay of Portland Christmas for years, and many consider them a ‘Do Not Miss.’ This show starts at 3 p.m.
From Nov. 30 through Dec. 11, Beatles fans can meet up at the Alberta Theater in Portland to hear music from The White Album and see the circus! The NowHere Band and Rose City Circus — brought to you by The Family Freak — is age–appropriate for the youngsters who are accompanied by their parents, and is an annual fun fest for all.
For those who appreciate classical music, there is the Oregon Symphony playing Handel’s Messiah from Dec. 4 – 6 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Long considered the ultimate in Christmas music, Oregon’s very own symphony will be joined by the Portland State University Chamber Choir singing the hallelujahs we are all feeling for being nearly through a second year of mass uncertainty.
By Sally K Lehman
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