Another great weekend is approaching in Salem, Oregon, and with it comes a fantastic lineup of local events. From agriculture and gardening to family-friendly roller skating, Salem has something special for you. Let’s take a look at just a few things the weekend has in store.

20th Annual Bauman’s GardenPalooza

Bauman’s Farm and Garden invites everyone for GardenPalooza 2024, an exciting two-day event! With over 30 vendors on site, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a vast selection of plants and garden art, perfect for igniting a passion for gardening. In addition to the vendors, Bauman’s country store, produce department, bakery, deli, coffee shop, and nursery will be open for visitors to enjoy. Free admission and parking.

Date: April 12-13, 2024
Time:  9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Bauman’s Farm and Garden // 12989 Howell Prairie Rd NE, Gervais, OR
Cost: FREE

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The Great Junk Hunt – Salem

The Great Junk Hunt is BACK at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, offering attendees a treasure trove of vintage finds, home decor, and more. The Great Junk Hunt features a selection of handpicked vendors presenting their goods in an atmosphere filled with cocktails, live music, and 80,000 square feet of unique treasures. Shoppers will have the chance to find items ranging from farmhouse to industrial, vintage, repurposed, handmade, and beyond.

Enjoy early bird access opportunities on Friday and Saturday to be among the first “hunters” inside, or join for general admission on Saturday from 10 AM – 4 PM.

There is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. Admission for children aged 12 and under is free.

Date: April 12-13, 2024
Time:  Friday (early bird) 4 PM – 9 PM | Saturday 9 AM – 4 PM
Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: Varies (view ticket information)

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Mechanical Bull Riding Event

Honky Tonk Bar & Grill is saddling up to host its inaugural Mechanical Bull Riding Event on Friday, April 12th. Try your skills for just $10 per ride, with discounts available for multiple rides.

Date: April 12, 2024
Time:  6:00 PM
Location: Honky Tonk Bar & Grill // 2275 McGilchrist St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: $10 per ride

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Grafting Fruit Trees with Scions and Rootstocks

The Marion County Master Gardeners Association is holding a special demonstration and hands-on workshop about grafting fruit trees, where participants will learn the art of grafting apple and pear scions onto rootstocks to create new trees or add new varieties to existing trees.

Attendees are reminded to:

  • Bring clean pruners and loppers if available.
  • Feel free to take photos with your camera.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, as workshops will proceed rain or shine.

Though this workshop is free, pre-registration is required to secure a spot. Additionally, rootstocks will be available for purchase for $5.

Date: April 13, 2024
Time:  10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Marion Demonstration Garden // 3180 Center St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE (registration required)

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Colander Hanging Basket Workshop

Do you want to have delicious herbs or flowers hanging right outside your door? Create your very own colander planter at Wavra Farms & Nursery’s workshop! Drop by on Saturday or Sunday between 10 AM – 4 PM to create a vibrant and colorful colander, filled with your choice of strawberries, herbs, or flowers.

The workshop fee is $35, covering the cost of a colander and soil. The herbs, strawberries, and flowers will incur an additional cost.

Date: April 13-14, 2024
Time:  10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Wavra Farms & Nursery // 7882 Jordan St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: $35

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Crafting at the Library: Make a Book!

Keizer Community Library is excited to host Crafting at the Library in celebration of National Library Month. Participants will have the opportunity to create their own book to take home. To ensure enough space for an enjoyable crafting experience, guests are encouraged to pre-register by calling the library at (503) 390-2370 for a time slot.

Date: April 13, 2024
Time:  1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Keizer Community Library // 980 Chemawa Rd NE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE (call 503-390-2370 to sign up for a time slot)

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Open Skate (All Ages)

Traveling_wheelz and Cherry City Roller Derby are teaming up to host an all-ages open roller skate event! Skaters of all ages are welcome to join in on the fun, with rental skates available for those who need them. This family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity for everyone to enjoy some roller skating fun!

Date: April 13, 2024
Time: Session 1: 3 PM – 5 PM | Session 2: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Cherry City Roller Derby // 1335 Madison St NE Salem, OR
Cost: $10-15 (view ticket information)

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Chefs’ Night Out 2024

The much-anticipated Chefs’ Night Out event is back on Sunday, April 14th, 2024! Attendees can look forward to exquisite tastes from local favorites like Chira’s Restaurant, Gamberetti’s, Willamette Valley Vineyards, and many more, as well as the enchantment of live music, setting the perfect ambiance for the evening.

Date: April 14, 2024
Time:  4:30 PM
Location: Salem Convention Center // 200 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: $80 (view ticket information)

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As we look forward to the weekend, it’s clear that our community is a vibrant tapestry of creativity, culture, and connection. Let’s make some great memories this weekend in the heart of the Willamette Valley!

Elyssa at WhirLocal

About the Author

Elyssa Henry is the Content Director for WhirLocal Salem and has been with the company since 2015. Born and raised in Salem, she has a passion for supporting local businesses and fostering community connections. Elyssa loves using her skills to highlight the best of what Salem has to offer and is dedicated to creating content that reflects the heart of the community.

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