Casing Oregon: Christmas at the Mill

Always a fun place to visit, the Willamette Heritage Center and Thomas Kay Woolen Mill is a microcosm of Oregon history: fourteen historic structures dot the five-acre grounds, which are dominated by the venerable mill and bisected by the old mill race. But for a few magical nights every year, the mill and grounds come alive with thousands of lights, living history demonstrations, musical performances, and even a visit from Santa.

Come early; this event is only open from 5:30 to 8:00, and there is a lot to explore. The first, most obvious attraction: light displays decorate the entire 5-acre property. Allow plenty of time to wander and take photographs among thousands of Christmas lights.

Then there is the history. By far the largest building on the property, the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill dates from 1889. Two floors of exhibits and equipment show how the mill produced its fine fabrics using the water flowing in Mill Creek. During the Magic evenings, volunteers in period dress are at hand to answer questions and explain the use of the still-impressive machines used to clean, card, spin, and weave the wool from Willamette Valley sheep (keep a sharp eye out when exploring around the building's exterior and you might find the old crown gear, still spinning above the rushing waters of the mill race). The three-story mill building is festively decorated with white lights for the holidays.

Besides the mill, you will find three of the oldest frame houses in the Northwest, as well as an 1858 church building. These buildings were moved to the Heritage Center in order to preserve them and their history (unfortunately, the houses are closed to the public during Magic at the Mill). You will also find the Metzger Machine Shop and a 1909 wooden railroad caboose that will eventually be part of a railroad history exhibit. You may also find living history demonstrations, such as blacksmithing and handweaving, and you might be lucky enough to catch a musical performance in the old church building.

Beyond the lights and the history, you will find a market featuring local vendors, a model train display, children's activities, and, of course, Santa!

We at Casing Oregon usually aim for activities that are free or low-cost, and we try to avoid fuss, limited tickets, and time constraints. We do allow the occasional exception, though, and Magic at the Mill is one of them. This one requires planning, so check the website and choose your night; opening right after Thanksgiving, the event offers 1,000 tickets per night. The more spontaneous can still check at the door for possible leftover tickets, but purchase ahead online if you prefer certainty.

A visit to Magic at the Mill has become a holiday tradition for many families. Bundle up, wear your boots, be ready for rain, and come explore a bit of Oregon's history seasoned with holiday merriment. It just might become a tradition for your family, as well!