‘Tis the season to be jolly in Salem, Oregon! This special time of year brings an extra sparkle to Salem, with a variety of events that capture the magic of the season. Join us as we unwrap a list of local events and activities happening this weekend.
Magic at the Mill
Join the Willamette Heritage Center for “Magic at the Mill,” a festive event illuminating the winter evenings with thousands of lights. This annual celebration, running from December 19th to 23rd between 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM, brings together the community to enjoy the holiday spirit and learn about Mid-Willamette Valley history.
Each night is capped at 1,000 guests, so don’t wait to buy tickets for this magical event!
Date: December 19 – 23, 2023
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Willamette Heritage Center // 1313 Mill St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: Varies (view ticket information)
Elsinore Holiday Films: White Christmas (1954)
This holiday season, the Elsinore Theatre invites you to come in and enjoy a classic film – “White Christmas” from 1954. Enhance your movie experience by visiting Santa’s workshop for a selfie with Santa, included with your ticket. Santa will be available an hour before the show starts. Join the Elsinore for a blend of holiday cheer, classic cinema, and a memorable encounter with Santa!
Date: December 23, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Elsinore Theatre // 170 High St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: $10 (view ticket information)
Christmas Party at the Yard
Celebrate the holiday season with a live musical treat at The Yard! Come in for an evening with the Winter WonderBand, who will be performing lively renditions of beloved Christmas classics and popular holiday songs. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy great music, have a delicious meal from one of seventeen food trucks, and sing along with the band. Gather your family and friends for an evening filled with festive tunes and joyous memories!
As part of the holiday spirit, non-perishable food donations for the Marion Polk Food Share are encouraged.
Date: December 23, 2023
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: The Yard Food Park // 4106 State St, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE
Heroes Christmas Party
Get ready for a festive and fun-filled evening at Heroes Tap House’s Christmas Party! Test your knowledge with exciting trivia, and pull out your most outrageous holiday sweater for their Ugly Sweater Contest. Plus, bring a wrapped gift worth $10 to participate in a White Elephant gift exchange. This party is the perfect way to dive into the holiday spirit with laughter, friendly competition, and festive cheer!
Date: December 23, 2023
Time: 6:30 PM – Close
Location: Heroes Tap House Bar and Grill // 4435 Liberty Rd S, Salem, OR
Cost: Bring a $10 white elephant gift!
FREE Shows at Westside Station
Westside Station is hosting Lip Bomb for two FREE nights of electrifying music! Get ready to rock out to your favorite hits from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and today. But that’s not all! They’ve got kazoo songs lined up, and they’re giving away stickers, magnets, and buttons/pins for free (while supplies last), promising an evening full of fun and laughter. Whether you’re a new fan or a returning friend, they promise a night of great music and an unforgettable experience!
Date: December 23, 2023
Time: 6:30 PM – Close
Location: Westside Station Restaurant & Lounge // 610 Edgewater St NW, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE
2023 Christmas Cheer Pack Out
This Christmas Eve, lend a hand for a heartwarming cause with Dallas Christmas Cheer, who is hosting their annual Christmas Cheer Pack Out event. Volunteers will play a crucial role in sorting, packing, and delivering food to families in need in the Dallas community. Last year, they reached over 500 families, and this year they aim to do even more. Come spread cheer and help make a difference this festive season!
Date: December 24, 2023
Time: 6:00 AM
Location: Polk County Fairgrounds // 520 S Pacific Hwy W, Rickreall, OR
Cost: FREE
Free Rides Christmas Eve
Salem’s Riverfront Carousel is offering a special gift to the community this Christmas Eve. From 11 AM to 3 PM, everyone is invited to enjoy free carousel rides! Visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation to support the Marion Polk Food Share. This gesture of giving back adds to the spirit of the season, making the carousel rides not only a joyful experience but also a meaningful contribution to those in need.
Date: December 24, 2023
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Salem’s Riverfront Carousel // 101 Front St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE
Salem Tuba Holiday
The Elsinore Theatre and Salem Symphonic Winds proudly present the Salem Tuba Holiday, an annual celebration of music and holiday spirit. This event showcases musicians playing conical bore instruments, including baritone horns, euphoniums, and tubas. Participants of all ages from across the Northwest come together to perform a delightful set of Christmas carols and holiday songs. The audience is encouraged to join in the festive cheer as lyrics will be projected, transforming the crowd into a community holiday choir. Tickets are available for $10 in advance or $15 at the door, promising a festive and musical experience for everyone.
Date: December 24, 2023
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Elsinore Theatre // 170 High St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: $10 advance, $15 day of show (view ticket information)
Whether you’re volunteering, joining a chorus of carols, or simply enjoying a merry ride on the carousel, these events are a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Salem community. Wishing everyone a joyful, peaceful, and memorable holiday season in the heart of the Willamette Valley!
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