It’s going to be a cold one in Salem this weekend! As we brace for uncharacteristically cold weather from an incoming winter storm, our community’s warmth continues to shine through the local events that are planned. While we encourage everyone to get involved in the local happenings, your safety is the number one priority during this inclement weather. Please stay safe, stay home if necessary, and stay informed about event updates or cancellations from the event organizers.

2024 Mid-Valley Home Show

The 46th Annual Mid-Valley Home Show, renowned as the oldest, largest, and most well-attended home show in the Mid-Willamette Valley, is set to make its return January 12-14, 2024. This event is the perfect opportunity for homeowners and enthusiasts to connect with experts and explore a range of exhibits displaying the latest in home products and services. Whether your interest is in DIY projects, home remodeling, or building a new home from scratch, you’ll find knowledgeable local professionals ready to assist, along with cutting-edge products. Come to the Mid-Valley Home Show to find inspiration and resources for all your home improvement needs. Also, enjoy the convenience of free parking and admission!

Date: January 12-14, 2024
Time:  11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Oregon State Fair & Expo Center // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE

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Preschool Storytime

The Salem Public Library’s Youth Services team invites children aged 2½ to 6 (and their grown-ups) to Story Room A for a lively preschool story time every Friday! Enjoy an interactive experience filled with engaging stories, fun songs, and movement activities. This event will be ASL interpreted, ensuring everyone can join in the fun. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity for early learning and connection at the library.

Date: January 12, 2024
Time:  10:15 AM – 10:45 AM
Location: Salem Public Library // 585 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE

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Brighton Beach Memoirs Opening Weekend

Pentacle Theatre proudly begins its 70th Season with a production of “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” directed by Jo Dodge. “Brighton Beach Memoirs is part one of Neil Simon’s autobiographical trilogy — a portrait of the writer as a young teen in 1937, living with his family in a crowded, lower-middle-class Brooklyn home. Eugene Jerome, standing in for the author, is the narrator and central character. Dreaming of baseball and girls, Eugene copes with the mundane existence of his family life in Brooklyn, his formidable mother, his overworked father and his worldly older brother, Stanley. Throw into the mix his widowed Aunt Blanche and her two young (but rapidly aging) daughters and you have a recipe for hilarity, served up Simon-style” (Concord Theatrical).

Tickets are available now at PentacleTheatre.org.

Date: January 12-14, 2024
Time:  Fri – Sat 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Sun 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Pentacle Theatre // 324 52nd Ave NW, Salem, OR 97304
Cost: Ticket prices vary (view ticket information)

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Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony (Salem)

Experience a wonderful musical program dedicated to the legacy of illustrious pianist-composers, featuring Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony. This masterpiece weaves a rich blend of deep melodies and romantic elegance, sure to captivate the audience.

David Danzmayr, Conductor
Conrad Tao, Piano
Conrad Tao: Over
Haydn: Piano Concerto in D Major
Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2

Date: January 12, 2024
Time:  7:30 PM
Location: Willamette University // 300 Winter St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: Ticket prices vary (view ticket information)

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Kitchen & Bath Workshops

C&R Remodeling is excited to bring back their Kitchen & Bath Workshops, inviting guests to explore their new showroom. Attendees can immerse themselves in the latest design trends and learn about C&R’s remodeling process from start to finish. The workshops will also provide valuable information on budgeting for kitchen and bath renovations. Coffee, tea, and treats will be available.

Bath Workshop: 10:00 – 10:45 AM
Kitchen Workshop: 11:00 – 11:45 AM

Interested participants can register here: https://forms.gle/Pt7nQjFSvZXckXrL8.

Date: January 13, 2024
Time:  10:00 AM & 11:00 AM
Location: C&R Remodeling // 1160 Vista Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: Unknown

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Best Books 2023

Join three Salem Public Library librarians for an engaging presentation showcasing the top books of 2023! This lively event will feature book selections voted on by library staff, patrons, and critics. Attendees will have the opportunity to check out copies of many of these acclaimed titles. This free program welcomes everyone, with seating offered on a first-come, first-served basis. ASL interpretation will be provided.

Date: January 13, 2024
Time:  2:00 PM
Location: Salem Public Library // 585 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE

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Año Nuevo Celebración

Xicha Brewing North is set to host a vibrant Año Nuevo Celebración on January 13th, starting at 6 PM. The evening will feature DJ Cavaliere spinning a selection of Latin tropical hits. Guests can look forward to a 30-minute bachata lesson at the beginning of the night, followed by a social dance.

The highlight of the night will be Xicha’s first bachata competition at 8:30 PM! Dancers are invited to showcase their bachata moves, with the top two couples winning cash prizes – $150 for first place and $100 for second. This event promises a night of lively music, dance, and celebration.

Date: January 13, 2024
Time:  6:00 PM
Location: Xicha Brewing North // 2195 Hyacinth St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE

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These local events are just a few examples of what Salem has to offer in the month of January. Here’s to experiencing community in Salem, supporting local businesses and organizations, and having a safe, enjoyable weekend!

Elyssa at WhirLocal

About the Author

Elyssa Henry is the Content Director for WhirLocal Salem and has been with the company since 2015. Born and raised in Salem, she has a passion for supporting local businesses and fostering community connections. Elyssa loves using her skills to highlight the best of what Salem has to offer and is dedicated to creating content that reflects the heart of the community.

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