Another weekend is nearly upon us in Salem, Oregon, which means there’s another great line-up of local events. Here are just a few to add to your calendar!
Holiday Sparkles at Powerland
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Powerland Heritage Park’s Holiday Sparkles drive-thru event! For three weekends, cruise through a winter wonderland filled with enchanting lights and festive displays. Santa Claus will be there for photos, and there’s a complimentary hot cocoa bar to keep you warm. Look out for the mischievous Grinch! It’s a fantastic family-friendly way to celebrate the holidays and spread some joy in the community, so invite your loved ones and share the festive cheer!
Date: December 8-10, 15-17, 22-23, 2023
Time: 5 PM – 8 PM
Location: Powerland Heritage Park // 3995 Brooklake Rd NE, Brooks, OR
Cost: FREE (donations appreciated)
Salem Holiday Market 2023
Everyone is invited to the Salem Holiday Market at the Oregon State Fairgrounds (Columbia Hall and Jackman Long buildings) on December 8th, 9th, and 10th. With over 250 talented handmade and handcrafted vendors, it’s a winter wonderland of unique finds! Entry and parking are free.
Date: December 8-10, 2023
Time: Friday 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM | Sunday 10 AM – 4 PM
Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE
Holiday Lights Display
Gather your loved ones and come down to Riverfront Park for an enchanting holiday celebration. Warm up with hot cocoa and cookies from Roth’s, take a moment to write a letter to Santa Claus, and for an extra touch of magic, enjoy a horse and carriage ride through the park. Be sure to stick around for the tree lighting at 7 PM!
Date: December 8-31, 2023
Time: 5:30 PM – 7 PM
Location: Riverfront Park // 147 Front St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE
Noche de Baile – Merengue
Join Xicha Brewing North for a group Merengue lesson at 6 pm on December 8th, followed by a lively social dance. Bring your dancing shoes and be ready to move!
Date: December 8, 2023
Time: 6 PM – 10 PM
Location: Xicha Brewing North // 2195 Hyacinth St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE
Crafting at the Library: Make Holiday Cards
The Keizer Community Library invites the community to a casual drop-in crafting event where you can get creative and make your own handmade holiday cards. They’ll provide all the necessary supplies, including craft scissors, scrapbook paper, stickers, glitter, markers, pencils, and more. This crafting session is open to all ages.
Date: December 9, 2023
Time: 1 PM
Location: Keizer Community Library // 980 Chemawa Rd NE, Keizer, OR
Cost: FREE
Paula Byrne Sings!
Christo’s Pizzeria is delighted to welcome back the exceptional Paula Byrne. She effortlessly transitions between songs that are rich and melodious to those with highly infectious rhythms. Paula’s performance includes a delightful blend of humor, revival of lesser-known tunes, and inventive interpretations of classic favorites, ensuring that the audience is thoroughly captivated and entertained. Buy your tickets before they sell out!
Date: December 9, 2023
Time: 7 PM
Location: Christo’s Pizzeria & Lounge // 1108 Broadway St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: $18 (view ticket information)
Live Music – Kassi Valazza
Live music is back at The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters! Prepare to be captivated by the remarkable Kassi Valazza, featuring Tobias Berblinger and Lewi Longmire. Doors open at 6:30 PM with the show beginning at 8 PM. Advance tickets are available or pay at the door. This event is open to individuals aged 21+, and a full bar will be available.
Date: December 9, 2023
Time: 8 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
Location: The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters // 471 Court St NE, Salem, OR
Cost: $10 (view ticket information)
Toy Swap
Join the City of Keizer for a sustainable and budget-friendly way to gift toys this holiday season! On Sunday, December 10th, at Keizer City Hall, you’re invited to participate in a FREE toy swap event. “Shop” gently used toys for free and discover wonderful toys, games, and gadgets for the kids on your holiday list.
Date: December 10, 2023
Time: 10 AM – 12 PM
Location: Keizer City Hall // 930 Chemawa Rd. NE Keizer, OR
Cost: FREE
Christmas Pop Up Shop / Christmas Market
Get ready for an exciting Christmas Pop-Up event brought to you by Las Cuatas Lokas! Enjoy delicious offerings like aguas frescas, tacos, pupusas, and various baked goods while you explore a selection of boutiques, jewelry, accessories, handbags, crafts, and more. There will even be a special celebrity guest to take photos with—the Grinch!
Date: December 10, 2023
Time: 12 PM – 6 PM
Location: Las Cuatas Lokas // 3180 Lancaster Dr NE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE to attend
As the holiday season unfolds in Salem, the city is bustling with events to embrace the festive spirit. Whether you’re seeking twinkling light displays, heartwarming community events, joyful music, or tasty treats, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Gather with friends and family, create cherished memories, and make the most of these wonderful upcoming events in the Salem area.
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