Check out these local events happening in and around Salem this weekend.
Oregon State Fair
The Oregon State Fair returns with 11 days of attractions, competitions, goods, and entertainment at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. This beloved end-of-summer tradition features thrilling carnival rides, live concerts from performers like All-American Rejects, Wynonna Judd, and The Beach Boys, local artisan showcases, farm animals and 4-H, and classic fair food.
Date: August 22 – September 1, 2025
Time: Opens at 10 AM daily (carnival rides open at 11 AM). Closes at 10 PM or 11 PM depending on the day.
Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: Ticket prices vary. Parking is $5. (View ticket information)
Capital City Retro Fest
Are you ready for Capital City Retro Fest? This high-energy, three-night concert experience at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater brings tribute performances to iconic bands like Fleetwood Mac, Journey, AC/DC, Nirvana, and much, much more. Guests of all ages can enjoy food carts, and a bar with adult beverages is available for those 21+. Cap off the summer with great music and incredible community.
Date: August 22 – 24, 2025
Time: Friday & Saturday – Gates open at 6:00 PM | Sunday – Gates open at 4:00 PM
Location: Gerry Frank Amphitheater // 200 Water St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: Single day admission $25 | 3-day festival pass $60 | Children 12 & under FREE (View ticket information)
Legends Night with Mike Cameron
It’s Legends Night at Roto-Rooter Park! Baseball fans, you won’t want to miss this special evening featuring former Mariners All-Star Mike Cameron. Known for his power and speed, Cameron made MLB history with four home runs in a single game and is the only player to hit two home runs in a game for eight different teams. Attendees can meet the baseball icon, get a free autograph, and take a photo during this unforgettable night at the ballpark.
Date: August 22, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Roto-Rooter Park // 6700 Field Of Dreams Way NE, Keizer, OR 97303
Cost: Ticket prices vary (view ticket information)
Puppy Palooza
Puppy Palooza (hosted by 4 All Muttkind) is coming to Nature’s Pet Market Salem! Stop by to meet adoptable pups, learn how to get involved as a foster or volunteer, and pick up blue bags for can and bottle donations. While you’re there, browse Nature’s Pet Market’s expansive selection of healthy pet food, treats, and accessories. You just might meet your future furry friend!
Date: August 23, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Nature’s Pet Market Salem // 4555 Liberty Rd S Ste 130, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE to attend; items for purchase
Dogs and Drinks with Ratchet Brewery
Join Little Critters Rescue at Ratchet Brewery for Dogs and Drinks, an afternoon of cold pints and cuteness! During the event, $1 from every pint sold will help support the rescue’s mission to find forever homes for adoptable dogs.
The event will also feature raffles, prizes, donation bags, and opportunities to learn about fostering, volunteering, or adopting. Come enjoy great beer and help make tails wag for a good cause!
Date: August 23, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Ratchet Brewery // 320 Broadway St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE to attend; drinks for purchase
Keizer Summer Sounds: Johnny Wheels & the Swamp Donkeys
The Keizer Summer Concert Series continues with a night of gritty blues and soulful vocals from Johnny Wheels & the Swamp Donkeys. This free, all-ages show at the Keizer Rotary Amphitheater is open to the community, Bring lawn chairs or blankets, enjoy tasty bites from an on-site food truck, and shop official band merch!
Date: August 23, 2025
Time: Doors at 5:00 PM | Music at 6:00 PM
Location: Keizer Rotary Amphitheater at Keizer Rapids Park // 1900 Chemawa Rd N, Keizer, OR 97303
Cost: FREE to attend; items for purchase
Stand-Up Comedian Mike Glazer with Emma Jonas & Tony Meyer
Stand-up comedian Mike Glazer is getting ready to take the stage at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre on August 23rd. Known for his appearances on HBO, the Food Network, and viral internet clips, Glazer brings wild storytelling, quick wit, and a joyful air to every show. He’ll be joined by local comedians Emma Jonas and Tony Meyer.
Date: August 23, 2025
Time: Doors at 7:00 PM | Show at 8:00 PM
Location: Grand Ballroom – Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre // 187 High St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $23.50 (View ticket information)
RiverCity’s 10th Anniversary Celebration + End of Summer Show
RiverCity Rock Star Academy is throwing a full-day outdoor celebration to mark 10 years of music and memories. This all-ages event will feature live performances from student bands throughout the afternoon, plus food and drink carts (including Santiam Brewing for 21+), outdoor games, raffles, studio tours, and more. The celebration also includes a special tribute to co-founder Mark Green and closes with an open jam session. Bring your instrument and join the jam!
Date: August 24, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: RiverCity Rock Star Academy // 2769 19th St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE
That’s it for this week! Go enjoy your weekend, Salem. 💙
