Looking for things to do in Salem this weekend? Here are just a few great events that are going on!
Holiday Village and Magic of Lights
The Holiday Village at the Oregon State Fairgrounds is still going strong through its closing weekend, so don’t miss your chance to enjoy live music, classic carnival rides, and delicious food and drinks. Take photos with Santa on weekends and enjoy the miniature horse petting station. Carnival rides are $5 each or 5 for $20. Admission is free, with parking available for $5 or free with a tour of FOX 12’s Magic of Lights.
Date: December 19 – 22, 2024
Time: Thurs & Friday 5 PM – 10 PM | Saturday & Sunday 11 AM – 10 PM
Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE admission (parking $5 or free with Magic of Lights tour)
All Ages Paint Night at iWingz
Join We Make Art for a fun-filled Paint Night at iWingz, where all ages are welcome to create and enjoy (though this particular painting is recommended for ages 13+). This two-hour, step-by-step class requires no prior experience. Materials are provided, and food and beverages are available for purchase.
Date: December 20, 2024
Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
Location: iWingz // 2445 25th St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: $35 (view ticket information)
Angkorian Might – Opening Reception
Experience Salem Multicultural Institute and World Beat’s opening reception of their newest exhibit, Angkorian Might. This immersive exhibit explores the rich culture and heritage of Cambodia and will be on display through February 6, 2025. The World Beat Gallery provides a space for local cultural communities to share their stories and traditions, with items exhibited directly from members of the community.
Date: December 20, 2024
Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
Location: Salem Multicultural Institute and World Beat // 300 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Terry Robb & Ty Curtis with Special Guest Taylor Newville, Live at The BAD Space
Don’t miss a one-night-only show with two of the Northwest’s most celebrated artists, Terry Robb and Ty Curtis, as they bring their outstanding performances to The BAD Space. Joining them as a special guest is the exceptional Taylor Newville.
Date: December 20, 2024
Time: 7 PM – 10 PM
Location: The BAD Space // 2572 19th St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: $20 (view ticket information)
A LOVE ELECTRIC! LIVE @ The Gov Cup
Enjoy an evening of electrifying music with A Love Electric and Portland’s own Galen Clark at The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters. This Mexico City power trio celebrates its Live in Genoa release, blending surf rock psychedelia, heartfelt songwriting, and captivating grooves. 21+ event.
Date: December 20, 2024
Time: 8 PM (Doors at 7 PM)
Location: The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters // 471 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $10 (view ticket information)
Elsinore Holiday Film: Elf (2003)
Celebrate the season with a big-screen showing of the holiday classic Elf at the Elsinore Theatre. Follow Buddy (Will Ferrell) on his hilarious journey from the North Pole to New York City as he discovers his true place in the world—and helps save Christmas along the way. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of laughs and holiday cheer.
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: 2 PM
Location: Elsinore Theatre // 170 High St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $10 adults; $5 children (12 and under) (view ticket information)
Needle Felting Class: Mushroom or Jellyfish Ornament
Get crafty this holiday season with Wee Woollies Fiber Arts. In this fun, beginner-friendly class held at Ratchet Brewery, you’ll learn to needle felt your choice of a whimsical mushroom or jellyfish ornament made entirely of wool. All supplies are included, and you’ll leave with a finished ornament, felting tools, and a complimentary drink (beer, cider, wine, and nonalcoholic options are available).
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: 2 PM – 4 PM
Location: Ratchet Brewery // 2475 25th St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $55 (view registration information)
Yule Make Music Salem: Bell Parade, Karaoke & Live Music
Celebrate the Winter Solstice by enjoying (or joining!) the Yule Make Music Salem: Jingle Bell Family Parade. The parade kicks off at Ritter’s at 4 PM and ends at Noble Wave—with hot chocolate and beignets—around 5 PM. It’s free to participate!
The parade will be followed by karaoke at Kraftworks Taphouse from 7 PM – 10 PM (all ages until 8 PM) and live music at Taproot Lounge & Cafe Downtown from 7 PM to 10 PM (all ages until 9 PM). Join in the Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Cheer!
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: 4 PM – 10 PM
Location: Downtown Salem
Cost: FREE
The Longest Night of the Year: A Candlelight Vigil of Remembrance
Salem Health invites the community to gather for on the winter solstice for “The Longest Night of the Year,” a candlelight vigil honoring loved ones who have passed. This family-friendly event provides a space for reflection, remembrance, and shared hope during the holiday season.
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: 6 PM – 7 PM
Location: Salem Health // 890 Oak St SE, Bldg A, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Elsinore Holiday Films: White Christmas (1954)
Enjoy the timeless holiday classic “White Christmas” on the big screen at the Elsinore Theatre. Come early to take a photo with Santa in his workshop before the show.
Date: December 22, 2024
Time: 2 PM – 4 PM
Location: Elsinore Theatre // 170 High St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $10 adults; $5 children (12 and under) (view ticket information)
Make the most of this festive weekend in Salem with these local events that bring music, crafts, movies, and holiday cheer to our community! ❄️
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