Make your weekend memorable with these exciting holiday events in Salem! From tree lightings and craft markets to themed celebrations and family-friendly activities, the community is coming together to spread seasonal cheer.
Holman Holiday Kickoff
Kick off the holiday season at the Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem on December 6 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. This festive, pet-friendly event is free and open to the public! Enjoy photos with Santa, face painting, balloon art, live music by Sarah Saul and Drew Medak, and performances by NW School of Music. Browse an incredible variety of local vendors offering handmade gifts, unique creations, and holiday treats.
Date: December 6, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem // 195 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE to attend, items for purchase
Riverfront Holiday Lights Display Kick Off
Celebrate the start of the Riverfront Holiday Lights Display on December 6 at Riverfront Park. The festivities begin at 5:30 PM with holiday music, carriage rides, and visits with Santa. Enjoy cookies and cocoa, courtesy of Roth’s IGA Fresh Markets, as the countdown begins for the grand tree lighting at 6:00 PM. It will be a magical way to welcome the season with the Salem community.
Date: December 6, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Riverfront Park // 101 Front St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Keizer Lights Opening Night
Experience the magic of the Keizer Lights Opening Night on December 6, and enjoy this iconic holiday lights display running through December 26. Stroll or drive through the Gubser Neighborhood, starting at Lockhaven and 14th, to take in the festive sights. Donations of canned or shelf-stable food for Marion Polk Food Share are encouraged. It’s a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer and give back to the community!
Date: December 6 – 26, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Gubser Neighborhood // 14th and Lockhaven, Keizer, OR 97303
Cost: FREE (canned or shelf-stable food donations encouraged)
Handmade Holiday Market Presented by the Salem Etsy Team
Shop local this holiday season at the Handmade Holiday Market on December 7, hosted by the Salem Etsy Team. With over 175 vendors, there’s sure to be something for everyone on your list! Enjoy free admission, raffle prizes, a scavenger hunt, kids’ coloring table, and live music. Santa will make an appearance, and the first 100 attendees can participate in Swag Bag Bingo.
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE ($5 parking)
Winter Holiday Happenings
Join the Salem Art Association for Winter Holiday Happenings on December 7 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Enjoy a special shopping experience at the Bush Barn Art Center and Annex, where members receive a 25% discount on items over $10 for this day only. Visitors can also explore the Bush House Museum, beautifully decorated for the season, with live music and a chance to experience the immersive “Favorite Things II” photography series by Jason Hill. These events are both free and open to the public.
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: The Bush Barn Art Center & Annex and Bush House Museum // 600 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE
Yuletide Market
Celebrate the season at the Yuletide Market hosted by Fauning Over Flora on December 7. Discover a curated selection of holiday wreaths, handmade goods, and festive treats while enjoying live acoustic holiday tunes. And don’t miss the chance for a vintage Polaroid photo with “St. Nate” in a winter wonderland floral installation!
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Fauning Over Flora // 1221 Riverbend Rd NW Ste 100, Salem, OR 97304
Cost: FREE
Swing Time Christmas Gala
Step back in time and celebrate the season at the Swing Time Christmas Gala, hosted by the B-17 Alliance Foundation. This 1940s-themed evening will feature the joyful sounds of the NW Big Band, boutique wines from Darque Wines and Stoller Wines, live and silent auctions, and photo ops with classic cars and military vehicles. Guests are encouraged to don their best 1940s attire for this glamorous event. Proceeds support preserving the Lacey Lady’s legacy.
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: B-17 Alliance Foundation // 3278 Aviation Loop SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: $125 per person (view ticket information)
Free Holiday Craft at the Carousel
Bring the family to the Riverfront Carousel on December 8 for an afternoon of festive fun! From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, enjoy a free holiday food craft (one per person, while supplies last). Special visitors from a galaxy far, far away and popular superheroes will also be on hand for meet-and-greets and photo opportunities. No reservations needed.
Date: December 8, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Riverfront Carousel // 101 Front St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Wrap up your weekend with joy and connection at one of Salem’s festive events. Whether you’re shopping for handmade gifts, enjoying holiday lights, or supporting local causes, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this season. ❄️
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