Seasonal Events

Pastega Christmas Light Display

The Pastega Christmas Light Display, a seasonal spectacle in Corvallis, Oregon, has illuminated the local community since its inception in 1981. Initially situated at the Pepsi plant when owned by the Pastega family, the display has since transitioned to the Benton County fairgrounds on 53rd St., following the sale of the business and a community effort to preserve and relocate the cherished pieces.

The tradition began when Mario Pastega commissioned the creation of Christmas scenes, which were placed in the field surrounding the PepsiCola Bottling plant. Over the years, new scenes and characters were added, with community members also contributing their displays. After Mario Pastega’s passing and the subsequent sale of the firm, the Pastega family decided to continue the Christmas display tradition. Community outreach led to individuals or families adopting the weather-beaten pieces, which were then refurbished and relocated to the display’s new home at the Benton County fairgrounds on 53rd St.

Ryan Long, with the Sue Long Realty Group at Keller Williams, shared insights into the history and evolution of the display. When Mario decided to sell the business, the community was called upon to “adopt the pieces.” Remarkably, all pieces had been adopted, refurbished, and subsequently returned in September, ensuring the continuity of the display. The Pastega family, through a foundation, continues to fund the display annually.

Alma Pastega, described as the artist behind the original pieces, would design and paint them, sometimes incorporating movement through mechanisms created by a gentleman named Olli Brendsdal. Alma would convey her vision to Olli, who would invariably respond with, “No problem,” and find a way to bring her ideas to life. Some of these original displays, with motorized swings and rocking horses, are still part of the exhibition today.

In recent years, the design process has involved collaboration with local high schools and their art clubs. Cutouts are delivered to the schools, where they are painted by the students. The display pieces have also expanded to include contemporary and popular culture references, such as Harry Potter and unicorns, often inspired by the interests of younger family members.

The display, which has grown to approximately 195 pieces, with eight added this year, has not been without its peculiar stories. One notable tale involves Dopey, one of the Seven Dwarves, who went missing but was eventually discovered in the basement of a fraternity and returned to the display, just as a replacement was being prepared.

The Pastega Christmas Light Display, while a festive and seemingly joyous occasion, is also a reflection of the community spirit and the Pastega family’s engagement with the local populace. It is an event that not only brings together various elements of the community but also serves as a platform for interaction, sharing, and celebration amidst the broader services provided by the family and the foundation. The emphasis on community involvement and giving back, as seen with the canned food donations, showcases the spirit of the event.

Volunteers, crucial to the setup and takedown of the display, are coordinated through the website, pastegachristmasdisplay.com, using a Sign-Up Genius link. The setup typically begins on November 1st and has been completed in as little as two weekends, while takedown has varied from five days to two weeks, depending on the number of volunteers.

The display, free and non-commercial, encourages visitors to donate canned food to support local communities, embodying a philosophy of community support and engagement. The Pastega Christmas Light Display, with its rich history, community involvement, and the stories that have unfolded over its many years, remains a cherished tradition in Corvallis, bringing light, joy, and a sense of unity to the community it brightens.

Pastega Website | Facebook

Boy Scout Troop 3 / Troop 4003 Tree Lot

Troop 3 Corvallis, a Boy Scout troop with a history dating back to 1930, has long been a staple in its community, embodying the mission and values of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) by providing a program that intertwines educational activities with lifelong values. The troop, which has been “dedicated to shaping boys into men,” is part of a larger network that views aiding youth as a pivotal step towards “building a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society.”

The troop engages in various activities designed to be both educational and enjoyable, ensuring that scouts are learning and developing in a positive environment. However, one of their most notable endeavors, particularly during the holiday season, is their Christmas tree lot, located in Corvallis on Kings and Grant. This lot, as described by a participant, is not merely a fundraiser but a practical application of the skills and values instilled in the scouts.

The tree lot, according to one of the troop leaders, is “our biggest fundraiser of the year” and is singularly significant as it is their “only fundraiser, really.” The proceeds from this initiative are foundational, funding “all of their camping activities, pre-camporee, camporee, fall rendezvous.” In essence, the Christmas tree lot “literally pays for everything for our troop.”

The scouts are actively involved in the operation of the tree lot, from setting up trees on the racks, ensuring they are presentable, to interacting with customers and assisting them in their selection. One scout leader reflected on the value of this experience, stating that she enjoys “seeing the scouts step outside of their comfort zone, talking to adults and talking to families and helping them find a Christmas tree.” This interaction not only provides a service to the community but also serves as a developmental tool for the scouts, encouraging them to navigate social interactions and step “out of their shell.”

The scouts, through their involvement in the tree lot, learn various skills and values that are applicable beyond the confines of the lot. One scout, reflecting on his experiences, highlighted “perseverance, salesmanship” as key learnings, noting that he has learned “how to upsell a tree” and the value of “persistence.” These learnings are not isolated to the practicalities of selling trees but are applicable in various aspects of their development and future endeavors.

Moreover, the tree lot serves as a connection point between the troop and the community. Trees sold at the lot are “all grown locally here in Oregon,” and the troop also donates between “75 and 100 trees to the community” through Vina Moses, which the troop grows themselves. This connection is further solidified through the relationships built with customers, some of whom have been purchasing trees from the lot for decades. One scout shared that there are customers who have been coming “for 20 years to get our trees from you every year,” illustrating a longstanding relationship between the troop and the community.

The tree lot, while a fundraiser, is emblematic of the broader mission and values of Troop 3 Corvallis and the BSA. It is a manifestation of the troop’s commitment to the development of its scouts, providing them with practical experiences that build character, encourage responsible citizenship, and develop personal fitness. Furthermore, it serves as a bridge to the community, fostering relationships and providing a service that has become a tradition for some. Thus, the tree lot is not merely a commercial endeavor but a reflection of the troop’s history, its commitment to the development of its scouts, and its relationship with the community.

Troop 3

Corvallis Historic Homes Trolley Tour

The **Historic Homes Trolley Tour** in Corvallis, Oregon, traditionally offered a guided exploration through the city’s architectural past, weaving through various neighborhoods and pausing at 36 different sites to delve into about “20 different styles of architecture.” The tour, which in previous years took place on Saturdays in July and August, was not merely an architectural exposition but also a narrative of the people and families who “built and inhabited those homes and really built the foundation of history here,” as noted by the tour guide.

Ryan Long, exploring the tour, highlighted its capacity to illuminate the stories embedded within the structures of Corvallis. One participant, who tries to attend “every summer I’m in town,” expressed an appreciation for the rich history embedded within the city, acknowledging the tour guide’s proficiency in providing “a good background on each of the different houses.” The tour, therefore, served not only as an architectural journey but also as a conduit through which stories of the past were conveyed, intertwining the physical structures with the lives and narratives of those who once inhabited them.

One notable mention during the tour was the acknowledgment of Pauling, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1954 and later the Nobel Peace Prize in 1962 for his scientific work and peace activism, respectively. Such snippets of information provide a glimpse into the lives of individuals who once resided in Corvallis, offering a human context to the architectural exploration.

The tour also provided insights into specific architectural styles, such as an “airplane-style Craftsman bungalow,” which was said to resemble “the early biplanes of the period.” Such details not only offered a visual context for participants but also highlighted how various influences, perhaps the advent of aviation in this instance, permeated architectural designs.

Participants found value in not only the architectural details but also the stories of people associated with these structures. One participant, reflecting on a particular house, shared, “I had wondered about for years and years and years as a college student and then living here. And then I get to be on this historic homes trolley tour and actually learn about it and talk to other people about it.” This sentiment underscores the tour’s capacity to satiate curiosities and provide answers about the visible, yet often mysterious, historical structures that dot the cityscape.

The tour, which also garnered recommendations from participants for its blend of architectural and human history, was not confined to local residents. One individual, perhaps a visitor, extolled the virtues of the area, citing the “fabulous” climate, low humidity, friendly people, commendable food, and the presence of numerous microbreweries as notable attributes.

While the tour provided a structured journey through Corvallis’s architectural and social history, it also facilitated a communal experience where stories of the past were shared and discussed, fostering a collective appreciation for the city’s historical and architectural landscape. Future attendees, given the popularity of the tour, were advised to seek more information and sign-up details through the official website, ensuring their opportunity to partake in this insightful journey through Corvallis’s historical tapestry.

Corvallis Historic Homes Trolley Tour Website | Facebook

The Melon Shack

“The Melon Shack,” situated off of Highway 20 in Corvallis, Oregon, emerges as a seasonal attraction, particularly during the Halloween period, offering a variety of activities and experiences that intertwine the agricultural with the recreational. The establishment, which is notably visible on one of the major thoroughfares in North Corvallis, Garden Avenue, provides a space where families and individuals can engage in traditional fall activities, such as navigating through a corn maze, selecting pumpkins from a field, and indulging in freshly made donuts.

The pumpkin patch, as described by a representative, is “on the side of an actual field of pumpkins,” and the planting process involves both machine and manual labor to ensure a variety of pumpkins are available. Visitors can expect a range of options, including “white ones, Cinderella types of various colors, and all kinds of shapes of the jack-o’-lantern varieties.” A visitor, reflecting on their experience, stated, “We’ve come down here the last few years to pick pumpkins, so it’s kind of a little family tradition to come to this patch.” The selection process appears to be a thoughtful one, with another visitor noting, “We just try to get a variety of shapes and sizes and colors.”

The Melon Shack’s corn maze, which takes “literally weeks and months” to construct, offers an engaging and somewhat challenging experience for visitors. One visitor, amidst their journey through the maze, pondered, “How much further do you think we have to go? Miles?” Another acknowledged, “It was a long one, though. It was good. It took a long time.”

In addition to the maze and pumpkin patch, the Melon Shack also provides culinary delights, notably their donuts, which are “hot, served about two minutes from the time they go on the fryers.” The maple bacon donut, identified as their best seller, is crafted with maple from Vermont and bacon derived from a local source, described by a visitor as “crunchy” and eliciting an “awesome” response.

The establishment also features a super slide, which seems to be a hit among younger visitors. One child, when asked about their experience, responded, “That’s probably the best part.”

The Melon Shack, while providing a space for seasonal enjoyment, also places a strong emphasis on delivering a “good product” and keeping people safe, according to a representative. The goal, it seems, is to “give the families an opportunity to have some fun,” providing a space where traditions can be formed and enjoyed annually.

In a concluding note, it’s essential to acknowledge that while the Melon Shack offers a variety of activities and experiences, the information might require verification directly from the source for the most accurate and up-to-date details. Visitors may engage with the establishment directly or potentially explore their offerings in person, located conveniently on Garden Avenue and Highway 20 in Corvallis.

Melon Shack Facebook

OSU Tailgating

The Oregon State University (OSU) Beavers Football team, representing OSU in Corvallis, Oregon, competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision, being a part of the Pac-12 Conference. With a rich history in college football and a tradition that has produced numerous professional football players, the team has become a cornerstone of the community and its sporting events.

In the words of a local on game day, “Saturday for me in Corvallis means an amazing game day. The whole community comes out, and we all get together to have a good time.” Tailgating, a significant event for Beavers football games, is described as a “family event” where people come together to celebrate and support the team. A parent of a former student shared, “My older son, Anthony, is the one that puts this one together. He has a lot of his friends that come from the Portland area primarily.”

The Beavers have made multiple appearances in the prestigious Rose Bowl and have fostered notable NFL players, such as Terry Baker, Steven Jackson, and Brandin Cooks. The team also holds a longstanding rivalry with the University of Oregon Ducks, known as the “Civil War,” which is one of the longest-running football rivalries in the nation.

A fan, discussing their pregame routine, mentioned, “My pregame routine is really to fast for about 12 hours so I can come in and enjoy the beer and the food. I make sure I have all my clothes laid out. I’ve got to have the right colors, orange and black.” The colors, orange and black, are a significant part of the team’s identity, with another fan noting, “Halloween all year.”

The Beavers, known for their dynamic offense and sturdy defense, have experienced various performance levels over the years, with seasons of strong performance and playoff appearances, as well as rebuilding years. The team’s playing style has evolved, adapting to the strengths of their players and coaching philosophies.

A dedicated fan shared, “We have tailgated every year that I’ve been here the last five years. Our boys played in 95 to 2002, so we’ve been coming for a while.” “We hit every single home game in football, every single home game in baseball, and every single home game in women’s basketball.” This dedication is mirrored by many in the community, with another stating, “Forty-some games here. You can’t beat the environment at a game.”

The Beavers’ games are not only a sporting event but also a community gathering, where attendees can explore various activities and engage in playful competitions. One attendee explained, “We’re playing some big Jenga, and as you get pretty high, there’s a lot of weight on all of them. If you try to go too slow, you move the tower too much. You’ve got to be quick, and you’ve got to try to set everybody else up for failure.”

Reflecting on the meaning of attending an Oregon State game, a fan expressed, “Oh my gosh, it’s energy, it’s the people and family, the color, and pageantry of college football’s electric. The pageantry, the colors, the band and the drum majors, the cheerleaders.” Another added, “It’s really fantastic to see a college football game and to be part of it. It’s just amazing. It’s a great environment here at OSU for Saturdays and every day.”

In conclusion, the OSU Beavers Football team is not merely a sports team but a focal point around which the community of Corvallis, Oregon, gathers, forming bonds and creating memories, all while partaking in the vibrant and spirited environment that college football brings. The team, while working towards improving their standings in the Pac-12 Conference, also serves as a conduit through which the community can express its collective identity and camaraderie.

OSU Football Website | Facebook | Instagram

Corvallis Farmers’ Market

The Corvallis Farmers Market, situated in the heart of Corvallis, Oregon, is a vibrant gathering that brings together approximately 65 vendors and a community eager to explore the fresh, locally produced goods on offer. The market, which sprawls across several blocks in the vicinity of 1st Street, presents a rich array of products, from fresh vegetables and fruits to organic flowers and artisanal food products, all cultivated or created by the vendors themselves.

Ryan Long, from the Sue Long Realty Group at Keller Williams, provides an intimate look into the market, sharing, “The best part of waking up on a Saturday morning, rolling out of bed, and coming down here to 1st Street for the Corvallis Farmers Market.” The market not only offers a wide variety of produce but also serves as a platform for local farmers and producers to connect directly with their community. One vendor, discussing the importance of this direct interaction, emphasizes, “Coming to the farmers market puts us face to face with our consumers. We get to talk to them; we get to know their friends.”

The market hosts a myriad of vendors, each bringing a unique offering to the table. A flower vendor shares, “We grow about 50 different varieties of flowers throughout the year,” ensuring a continuous rotation of fresh, vibrant blooms. Another vendor, from Denison Farms, a staple at the market and recognized as one of the original farms that helped initiate it, confirms the authenticity of their offerings, stating, “this farmers market requires that everything in your booth is grown by you.”

The market also serves as a platform for vendors to share their philosophy and approach towards their produce and products. A beef producer shares, “Raising natural beef is more than just a business; it is kind of a mission. We believe in the concept of cattle being humanely raised and natural.” This sentiment of passion and commitment towards their craft and produce is echoed by various vendors throughout the market.

Moreover, the market is not merely a place of transaction but also a locale where culinary delights are shared and celebrated. A vendor, discussing the versatility of peppers, lists, “Hamburgers, taco salads, raw, plain, powders, and sauces. Hot sauces and a couple of mild sauces,” showcasing the myriad of ways their produce can be utilized. Another vendor, sharing a simple yet delightful recipe for carrot fries, mentions, “I just use olive oil, our sweet, tasty carrots, and a little bit of salt and pepper.”

The Corvallis Farmers Market, through its vendors and their diverse offerings, emerges as a community hub where the emphasis is not only on the produce but also on the relationships forged between the vendors and their customers. A vendor encapsulates this sentiment, stating, “It’s community; it’s a community gathering place. It’s entrepreneurship, 100% grown into lemon honey, 100% local, interacting with the public in a friendly environment.” Thus, the market stands as a testament to the rich, communal spirit of Corvallis, fostering a space where local produce is celebrated, and community connections are nurtured.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market Website | Facebook