Happy May! As the city continues to bloom into the colors of spring, the community calendar is also filled with exciting activities and gatherings. Here are a few local events happening around Salem this weekend.
Marion County Master Gardener Plant Sale
Mark your calendars for the Marion County Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale! Explore an extensive selection of over 10,000 plants, including perennials, native species, vegetables, herbs, trees, shrubs, and more.
Date: May 3 – 4, 2024
Time: Friday 10 AM – 7 PM | Saturday 9 AM – 4 PM
Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds, Columbia Hall, Red Gate Entrance // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $2.50 for parking; FREE admission
Spring Book Sale – Friends of Salem Public Library
Discover great deals on books for all ages, along with CDs, DVDs, and more at the Spring Friends of Salem Public Library Book Sale. Stock up on your reading list and support the Salem Public Library in the process!
Sale Hours:
- Thursday, May 2: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday, May 3: 10 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday, May 4: 10 AM – 4:30 PM ($4 Bag Day, bags provided)
All proceeds from the sale will be used to support programs and special projects at the Salem Public Library.
Date: May 2 – 4, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: Friends of Salem Public Library Bookstore // 585 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE to attend
First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Salem
It’s time again for another First Friday Art Walk, featuring some of Salem’s favorite downtown establishments! Experience an evening of local art, pop-up events, and live music as you explore the heart of downtown Salem. You might discover a new favorite business!
Date: May 3, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Downtown Salem
Cost: FREE
Spring Food Fair & Plant Sale 2024
Don’t miss the LifeSource Spring Food Fair & Plant Sale on May 4th! Come enjoy a day filled with delicious food, fun activities, a variety of plants, and live music from The Gusto Brothers from 11 AM – 3 PM. Indulge in free samples and enter the raffle for a chance to win prizes. Plus, take advantage of a special 20% discount on all regular priced items throughout the day.
Date: May 4, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: LifeSource Natural Foods // 2649 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: FREE to attend
Sheep to Shawl
The Willamette Heritage Center is hosting their annual Sheep to Shawl Festival! This beloved family event, a tradition since 1985, is free to attend and offers a full day of woolly wonders. Immerse yourself in the magic of wool fiber processing, from shearing to shawl-making.
What to Expect:
- Live Animal Demonstrations: Meet sheep, alpacas, llamas, and even the occasional rabbit up close.
- Shearing Demonstrations: Watch as skilled shearers expertly remove wool in preparation for spinning.
- Fiber Arts: Witness the transformation of fleece into yarn by talented spinners, and see weavers and other fiber artists craft exquisite fiber creations.
- Activities and Entertainment: Enjoy a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, including children’s crafts, fiber arts demonstrations, and live performances.
- Games and Dining: Play lawn games and savor delicious food and drinks from Taproot.
- Shopping: Explore a variety of booths featuring unique handmade goods from local artisans and vendors.
Date: May 4, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Willamette Heritage Center // 1313 Mill St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
NorthWest Taco Fest
Gather the family for NorthWest Taco Fest at Riverfront Park! Experience the region’s finest tacos from over 30 taco trucks, taquerias, and restaurants. In addition to tasty tacos, you can enjoy a selection of local beers, margaritas, and ciders. There will be live music and entertainment for all ages. Don’t miss this family-friendly festival filled with fun, food, and festivities!
Date: May 4, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Riverfront Park // 200 Water St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: Varies (view ticket information)
Amazing Bubble Man at Salem’s Chemeketa College Auditorium
Louis Pearl, the Amazing Bubble Man, is a captivating performer who delights audiences of all ages with his bubbles. Catch him live at Chemeketa Community College for a mesmerizing performance that showcases his bubble mastery!
Date: May 4, 2024
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Chemeketa Community College Auditorium // 4000 Lancaster Dr NE, Salem, OR 97305
Cost: $12-17 (view ticket information)
Salem Flea Market
Visit the Southern Oregon Flea Market at the Oregon Expo Center, where you’ll find over 300 tables featuring both new and used items. There will also be cash door prize drawings every 30 minutes. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover great deals and unique finds!
Date: May 5, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Oregon State Expo Center // 2330 17th St NE Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $5 parking, $2 admission (kids under 12 get in free)
A Curiouser & Curiouser Tea Party with Alice
Salem’s Riverfront Carousel and When You Wish Events invite you to a very curious tea party with Alice! Alice will entertain and lead children through a craft activity and carousel rides. Each child will also receive a keepsake photo with Alice to remember the day.
There are two event times at 11 AM and 2 PM. Tickets are $35 per person (not including processing fees). Admission for children aged 2 years and under is free, but they must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Date: May 5, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM | 2:00 PM
Location: Salem’s Riverfront Carousel // 101 Front St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $35 per person (view ticket information)
We hope you’ve found something to spark your interest and add to your calendar this weekend! Whether you’re looking to explore local festivals, enjoy live performances, or eat good food, Salem has many opportunities to make great memories. We look forward to seeing you out there!
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