Get ready for a weekend filled with concerts, creative experiences, family outings, local shopping, and more ways to connect.
Marion County Master Gardener Plant Sale
The Marion County Master Gardener Association’s annual Plant Sale is moving to the Salem Armory Auditorium, where guests can browse a wide selection of plants for gardens, landscapes, and outdoor spaces. Knowledgeable master gardeners will also be available to answer questions and help shoppers find inspiration for the growing season. Admission and parking are both free.
Date: May 8, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Location: Salem Armory Auditorium // 2310 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE to attend; items for purchase
Be Like Blippi Tour
Families can enjoy a bright, high-energy stage adventure as Blippi and Meekah bring the all-new Be Like Blippi Tour to the Elsinore Theatre. This interactive show is packed with music, laughter, surprises, and fan favorites like “The Excavator Song,” “Monster Truck,” “Dino Dance,” and “Curious Like Me.”
A special Photo Experience add-on is also available for families who would like to meet Blippi on stage and capture a memorable photo.
Date: May 8, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Elsinore Theatre // 170 High St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $34.41 – $67.71 (view ticket information)
Polyrhythmics ft. Adryon de León at Salem’s Historic Grand Theater
Seattle-born Polyrhythmics will bring their bold blend of deep funk, brass, percussion, R&B, progressive jazz, Afrobeat, and psych-funk to Salem’s Historic Grand Theater for an all-ages night of live music. The evening also features acclaimed vocalist Adryon de León, whose soulful, theatrical sound has been heard with Orgone, Disneyland Resort, Idina Menzel, Macy Gray, George Clinton, and more.
Date: May 8, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Salem’s Historic Grand Theater // 187 High St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $28.50 (view ticket information)
STRIDE 5k Run/Walk
Runners, walkers, families, and neighbors of all ages can take part in the STRIDE 5k Run/Walk at Bush’s Pasture Park, hosted by City of Salem Recreation Services. Strollers are welcome, and dogs may join on leash. Participants can pre-register online or in person at 440 Church St SE (5th floor), with bib pickup available at the event. Come move outside with the community!
Date: May 9, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Bush’s Pasture Park // 668 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Cost: See registration details
Baby Pajama Jam
Little ones and their caregivers can head to Salem Public Library for a cozy pajama dance party made for babies and toddlers. Wear your cutest jammies, bring your best dance moves, and drop in for an afternoon of music, movement, and fun.
Date: May 9, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Location: Salem Public Library // 585 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE
Annual Timber Town Harley-Davidson Swap Meet
Timber Town Harley-Davidson is hosting its Annual Swap Meet! Buy, sell, browse, and connect with local vendors and other motorcycle enthusiasts. Vendor spaces are available for $20. All proceeds benefit the Salem Toy Run.
Date: May 9, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Timber Town Harley-Davidson // 3601 Silverton Rd NE, Salem, OR 97305
Cost: FREE to attend; $20 vendor spaces
Richard Marx
Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Richard Marx will take the stage at the Elsinore Theatre for an evening filled with decades of hits and fan favorites. Known for songs like “Right Here Waiting,” “Hazard,” and “Hold On to the Nights,” Marx has built a celebrated career with more than 45 million albums sold, one billion streams, and fourteen No. 1 singles.
Date: May 9, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Elsinore Theatre // 170 High St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: $40.67 – $107.27 (view ticket information)
Galactic Heroes Takeover Day at the Carousel
A galaxy of fun is landing at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel for Galactic Heroes Takeover Day, featuring character meet-and-greets, take-home activity pages, and guided saber training for young heroes. Upgrade your visit with a Galactic Heroes Activity Pass, which includes three rides, popcorn, a galaxy art craft, and a goody bag while supplies last.
Date: May 10, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Salem’s Riverfront Carousel // 101 Front St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Cost: FREE; $12 activity pass available (view registration information)
However you spend the weekend, these Salem events are a great way to enjoy local businesses, family activities, and community connections.
