It’s going to be another exciting weekend in Salem, Oregon! Mark your calendars as we take a look at just a few of the fun activities you can find taking place in the city the weekend of August 11-13, 2023.

Englewood Forest Festival

Spend the day outdoors at the Englewood Forest Festival, a free event held in Englewood Park. Embark on a day filled with art, music, dance, wonder, and discovery! Delight your taste buds with delicious food offerings from vendors like Geppetto’s Italian and Dough Hook, and engage in a plethora of fun activities and workshops designed to enrich your experience. From learning about pollinators and native plants to crafting your own bird feeder and painting rocks, the opportunities for learning and creativity are boundless.

Date: August 12, 2023
Time: 10 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Englewood Park, 1260 19th St NE Salem
Cost: FREE

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2023 Movies in the Park

Get ready for the excitement of the 2023 Movies in the Park, happening every other summer Friday evening at the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater in Riverfront Park. Grab a blanket or a comfortable low-back chair and settle in for an evening of cinematic fun under the stars. Please note that alcohol is not permitted.

Best of all, these movie nights are free of charge! To support the continuation of this wonderful family-friendly activity, consider contributing a suggested donation on the night you attend.

August 11th’s movie selection is The Bad Guys (PG).

Date: August 11, 2023
Time: 8 PM
Location: Riverfront Park, 200 Water Street NE Salem
Cost: FREE

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Movies in the park Salem, Oregon

Run for Salem Free Clinics

Salem Free Clinics, a community non-profit in Salem, Oregon, is hosting their 11th annual Run for Salem Free Clinics at Minto Brown Island Park this Saturday, August 12. You can still register by August 10 (registration closes at 5PM) for their in-person and virtual races which include a 2 mile fun walk, 5k, and 10k. All proceeds support SFC.

Date: August 12, 2023
Time: 9 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Minto Brown Island Park
Cost: $35 per participant

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Wine & Dine Movie Night

Indulge in an evening of culinary delights, exquisite wine, and cinematic magic at the Wine & Dine Movie Night, brought to you by Northern Lights Theatre Pub and Miller’s BBQ. Settle in for an exceptional experience that commences with a delightful sampling and pairing session of BBQ creations by Chef Matt Miller, harmonized with wines from Brooks Winery.

After relishing the samples, the decision is yours. Select your favorite BBQ pairing from the likes of Pork Loin, Salmon, or Brisket, and immerse yourself in a delectable full dinner accompanied by your chosen drink, all while basking in the movie magic.

Enjoy the movie “Barbie” (PG-13) as the perfect cinematic companion to an unforgettable evening.

Date: August 13, 2023
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Northern Lights Theater Pub
Cost: $35 per person (covers sampling, dinner, drinks, and admission)

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2023 Back to School Backpack Giveaway

In preparation for the upcoming fall classroom return, the Boys & Girls Club is collaborating with SELCO Community Credit Union and other local partners to ensure every student has the necessary supplies for a successful start to the school year!

  1. Backpacks filled with essential school supplies
  2. Toothbrush kits & Water Bottles
  3. Family Resource Kits

These supplies will be provided FREE of charge to students in grades K-12. Please remember to have your child present, as one backpack will be given per student.

The backpack giveaway will take place at two convenient locations:

  • Knudson Boys & Girls Club Branch – 1395 Summer Street, NE, Salem, OR 97301
  • Epping Homestead Boys & Girls Club Branch – 3805 Lancaster Drive NE, Salem, OR 97305

Date: August 12, 2023
Time: 9 AM – 12 PM
Location: 1395 Summer Street, NE, Salem, OR 97301 and 3805 Lancaster Drive NE, Salem, OR 97305
Cost: FREE

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KeizerFEST 2023

Get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement of KeizerFEST at Keizer Rapids Park, where a world of fun awaits! This year’s theme is “Home Sweet Home.” Over the course of four thrilling days, you can revel in the festivities of a carnival, compete in riveting cornhole tournaments, admire the finest automobiles at the car show, cheer loudly at the parade, and explore a variety of offerings from 40+ vendors. Live music will serenade you throughout, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.

Thanks to the support of generous sponsors, entry to KeizerFEST is absolutely free. So mark your calendars and head over to Keizer Rapids Park for an unforgettable celebration that promises joy, laughter, and cherished memories for all who attend.

The kick-off party starts August 10th at 4 PM!

Date: August 10-13, 2023
Time: Varies
Location: Keizer Rapids Park
Cost: FREE

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What are you waiting for? With a variety of fun events lined up in Salem, Oregon, this weekend offers an invitation to step out, embrace the vibrant summer atmosphere, and make the most of these exciting opportunities with friends and family.

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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