Looking for weekend plans? There’s a lot happening around Salem this weekend.
Firepit Friday
Kick off the weekend with a cozy night at RH Wines! The firepit will be crackling, the wine will be pouring, and local musician Leland Hallahan will be playing live country, rock, and crowd-favorite covers. Plus, Kruncheeze Food Truck will be serving up gourmet grilled cheese to keep you warm and well-fed.
Date: January 16, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: RH Wines // 2995 Michigan City Lane NW, Salem, OR 97304
Cost: FREE to attend; food and drink for purchase
The Problem Party: A D&D-Inspired Improv Comedy Adventure
Gather your party and head to Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre for a one-of-a-kind improv show. “The Problem Party” is a Dungeons & Dragons-style adventure performed by a cast of quick-witted improvisers and led by a mischievous Game Master. With each roll of the dice, the storyline shifts and creates a new, hilarious journey every time.
This PG-13 show is perfect for fans of fantasy, comedy, or both. Audience members are encouraged to bring their coolest sunglasses (seriously).
Date: January 16, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre // 187 High St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $15 single admission / $45 Adventuring Party Pack (+ fees) (view ticket information)
Basic Life Support (BLS) Training
Thor’s Haven Fitness and Recovery is hosting a hands-on Basic Life Support training led by licensed paramedic and certified instructor Justin Copeland of Legacy CPR, LLC. Whether you’re renewing your certification or learning BLS for the first time, this course teaches essential life-saving skills in a supportive environment.
Date: January 17, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Thor’s Haven Fitness and Recovery // 3523 Fairview Industrial Dr SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: $70 (contact host directly to register)
New Year New Friend
Little Critters Rescue is teaming up with Ratchet Brewery for another great puppy adoption event. Swing by for some puppy snuggles and maybe even meet your future best friend!
Date: January 17, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Ratchet Brewery // 2475 25th St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE to attend; food and drink for purchase.
Author Event with C.A. House at Barnes & Noble
Join local fantasy author C.A. House at Barnes & Noble in Salem for an in-person book signing and meet-and-greet. If you or someone you know loves fantasy/sci-fi, this is a great chance to connect and pick up a signed copy.
Date: January 17, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Barnes & Noble // 827 Lancaster Dr NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE to attend
Dueling Pianos: A Tribute to the 90s
The Dueling Hobbits return to Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre for a night of 90s nostalgia, high-energy piano battles, and cheeky fun. From Nirvana and Britney to TLC and Oasis, this all-ages tribute show is packed with crowd singalongs, surprise requests, and nonstop entertainment. Doors open at 7:00 PM.
Date: January 17, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre // 187 High St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $25 advance / $30 at the door (view ticket information)
Huckle Buck Highway Live at Half Penny
Get ready for a lively Saturday night at Half Penny! Huckle Buck Highway will be taking the stage with a fun mix of dance-worthy tunes.
Date: January 17, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Half Penny // 3743 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE to attend; food and drink for purchase
Salem’s Trading Card Showcase & Collectible Show
Collectors and fans of cool things: don’t miss this popular showcase of trading cards, collectibles, and more at the Scottish Rite Center in Salem. Free admission and parking make it easy to stop by and enjoy the fun.
Date: January 18, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Scottish Rite Center // 4090 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE to attend; items for purchase
Brushes & Brunch: Onboard the Willamette Queen Sternwheeler
Set sail on the Willamette Queen Sternwheeler for a relaxing afternoon of painting, brunch, and river views. Hosted by Serendipities by Dena, this two-hour cruise includes step-by-step painting instruction (no experience needed), all supplies, and a full brunch.
Guests will paint “Tranquil Lake.” Open to ages 18+.
Date: January 18, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Willamette Queen Sternwheeler // 101 Front St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $35 to paint / $65 with cruise and brunch (view ticket information)
Which events are making it onto your calendar this weekend?
