Explore 10 exciting local events in Salem, Oregon this weekend, including live music, markets, workshops, and more!
The Oregon Quilt Festival
The 3rd Annual Oregon Quilt Festival invites quilting enthusiasts to “reach for the stars” in their creative journey. Hosted at Columbia Hall in the Oregon State Fair & Expo Center, this event showcases exquisite quilts from talented artists, engaging workshops with nationally renowned teachers, daily seminars, and the Iron Quilter team challenge. Attendees can also explore vendor booths featuring fabrics, kits, machines, and more.
Date: February 27 – March 1, 2025
Time: Thursday & Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Columbia Hall, Oregon State Fair & Expo Center // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $15 per day | $40 three-day pass | FREE for children under 12 | Parking $5 (view ticket information)
Mardi Gras Ball 2025
Get ready for a night of celebration at Noble Wave’s Mardi Gras Ball! On Friday, February 28th, Noble Wave brings the festive spirit of South Louisiana to Salem. Dance the night away to live New Orleans-style brass tunes performed by DTW Productions, join a lively Second Line walking parade, and enjoy a special cocktail menu and late-night bites. Mardi Gras beads will be provided—just bring your best funky cocktail attire in purple, green, gold, or your favorite ball outfit.
Date: February 28, 2025
Time: 9:30 PM – 1:00 AM
Location: Noble Wave // 189 Liberty St NE Ste 112, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $10 cover | 21+
Salem Saturday Market Opening Day
The Salem Saturday Market is back for the season! Kick off opening day by browsing vendors from Salem and beyond. The Marion County Master Gardeners booth will be open and available to answer questions about gardening, soil health, pests, plant diseases, and more.
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Corner of Summer St & Marion St, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Salem Polar Plunge 2025
Special Olympics Oregon invites the community to take the plunge for a great cause at the annual Salem Polar Plunge! Held at Illahe Hills Country Club, this fun-filled event includes a Polar 5K, a lively costume contest, and, of course, the icy plunge itself. All proceeds support year-round sports, wellness, and engagement programs for over 5,000 Special Olympics Oregon athletes.
Event Schedule:
- Registration: 9:30 AM
- Polar 5K: 10:00 AM
- Costume Contest: 10:45 AM
- The Plunge: 11:00 AM
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Illahe Hills Country Club // 3376 Country Club Drive South, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: View registration information
Salem Rock and Gem Show
Presented by US Bead Warehouse, the Salem Rock and Gem Show at the Holiday Inn Salem is a must-visit for gem and mineral lovers. This show features a variety of minerals, gemstones, jewelry, crystals, and more. Free admission and plenty of parking available!
Date: March 1–2, 2025
Time: Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Holiday Inn Salem // 3301 Market St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Aunt Bee’s Birthday
Celebrate the first-ever Bee’s Birthday at Aunt Bee’s House! The first 100 customers will receive a free mini cupcake, plus there will be special sales, raffles, and more fun surprises throughout the day.
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Aunt Bee’s House // 2679 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE
Ukrainian Egg Decorating Class for Kids
Hosted by the Salem Multicultural Institute and World Beat, this class gives kids ages 5–11 the chance to create traditional Ukrainian Easter eggs—pysanka—with instructor Daniela Mahoney.
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Salem Multicultural Institute and World Beat // 390 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $10 per person, includes supplies (view ticket information)
Seed and Houseplant Swap
Salem Public Library—in partnership with the OSU Extension Service, Marion County—invites the community to the Seed and Houseplant Swap. Bring seeds, cuttings, and houseplants to trade, or stop by to pick up new additions for your home. Master Gardeners will be available to offer tips and answer all your gardening questions—perfect for getting into the spirit of spring!
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Salem Public Library // 585 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Underground Market
Get ready for another exciting Underground Market at Blast Off Vintage! This event showcases some of Salem’s most talented local vendors offering handmade goods, specialty services, and more. Held in the well-lit basement of Blast Off Vintage, the market welcomes around 30 vendors—no table fees, just pure community support and creativity. Come see what your friends have made and support local talent!
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Blast Off Vintage // 860 High St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Ben Rice & The PDX Hustle / Johnny Wheels & The Swamp Donkeys
Get ready for a night of live music at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre and Event Center, featuring Johnny Wheels & The Swamp Donkeys and Ben Rice & The PDX Hustle. With horns, organ, slide guitar, and irresistible rhythm, this show promises to get you moving!
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)
Location: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre and Event Center // 187 High St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $30 General Admission | All Ages (view ticket information)
What are you adding to your calendar this weekend? Let’s welcome March with a bang!
