Things to do in Salem, Oregon // Nov 17 – 19, 2023

Looking for something to do in Salem, Oregon this weekend? Here are 10 great events to add to your calendar.

Live Performance – Native Stories with Ed Edmo

Join Keizer Cultural Center in celebrating Native American Heritage Month as they welcome Ed Edmo, a member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, for a series of ancestral storytelling. Edmo will capture audiences with stories passed down through generations, including those told by his grandparents around the wood stove.

Edmo’s stories often feature the trickster Coyote, and among his most beloved stories is the creation of the Columbia River. Beyond storytelling, Edmo is a consultant for the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian, a poet, writer, recording artist, and playwright.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Edmo’s stories for yourself at Keizer Homegrown Theatre. Holders of the Oregon Trail Card are eligible for free tickets.

Date: November 17 – 19, 2023
Time:  Friday & Saturday 7 PM | Sunday 2 PM
Location: Keizer Homegrown Theatre // 980 Chemawa Rd NE, Keizer, OR
Cost: $15 (12 and under are FREE)

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Opening Weekend – The Play That Goes Wrong

Head over to Pentacle Theatre for their opening weekend of “The Play That Goes Wrong,” directed by Susan Schoaps.

“I propose putting your rational mind into sleep mode, the better to savor tickling images of order-inverting bizarreness, straight out of Dada, in which suddenly nothing is in its customary place or being used for its customary purpose. There’s a wild, redeeming poetry in such anarchy.” The Daily Beast

The play runs from November 17 – December 9, 2023.

Date: November 17 – December 9, 2023
Time:  7:30 PM
Location: Pentacle Theatre // 5299 Aspen St, Salem, OR 97304
Cost: Varies (view ticket information)

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LifeSource Pajama Sale

It’s that time of year again at LifeSource—the PAJAMA SALE is back! Roll out of bed and come in your comfiest pajamas from 6 am to 10 am to enjoy a 20% discount on all regularly priced items (excluding turkeys). In addition to savings, expect exciting giveaways, free samples, and a whole lot of fun. This event is a beloved Salem tradition thanks to the support of local stores and Natural Foods.

Date: November 18, 2023
Time:  6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: LifeSource Natural Foods // 2605 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: FREE to attend

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12th Annual McNary High School Annual Bazaar

The 12th Annual McNary High School Holiday Bazaar is happening on Saturday, November 18th. With over 100 vendors, crafters, and artisans in attendance, you’re sure to discover unique treasures. But that’s not all; there will be several raffle baskets, delicious food, live music, and more to keep you entertained. This is a free, family-friendly event.

McNary encourages you to participate in their charitable drive by bringing a suggested donation of two non-perishable food items or new, unwrapped children’s toys or games. You’ll receive a free raffle ticket for an exciting raffle basket drawing. Last year, this program brought joy to over 300 families in the area by providing family food boxes, clothing, and toys for children under 18.

Date: November 18, 2023
Time:  9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: McNary High School
Cost: FREE (suggested donation of 2 non-perishable food items or new unwrapped children’s toys or games)

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ShowBiz Salem Holiday Expo

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gifts for your loved ones or perhaps seeking specialty foods and drinks to elevate your holiday feasts, you’re in for a treat. The ShowBiz Salem Holiday Expo is where it all happens, with over 100 exhibitors showcasing their finest products and services under one roof. This event can be your one-stop shopping extravaganza, bringing together businesses and community in a celebration of local talent and expertise, live entertainment, a dazzling array of giftware and crafts, local merchant offerings, and samples galore.

Admission and parking are FREE.

Date: November 18 – 19, 2023
Time:  12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds
Cost: FREE

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Parents Night Out – Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Movie Night

Enjoy a Parents’ Night Out while your kids have a blast too! Join Salem Gymnastics Center for their November Feature film, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” The evening includes a pizza dinner, drinks, and snacks. While parents enjoy some time off, the little ones will be under supervision in their expansive 15,000 square foot gymnastics center, where they can enjoy activities like the zip line, Ninja rig, trampoline, and foam pit.

This event is open to the public and welcomes children aged 4 to 12 years old.

Date: November 18, 2023
Time:  5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Salem Gymnastics Center // 2775 19th St SE, Salem, OR
Cost: $25 per child (reserve a space)

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Thanksgiving Cookie Decorating Class at Sweetly Baked

Sweetly Baked is hosting a Thanksgiving Cookie Decorating Class! Unleash your creativity and have a great time decorating cookies with a variety of colorful frostings and toppings.

Date: November 18, 2023
Time:  5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Sweetly Baked // 680 Hawthorne Ave SE, Salem
Cost: $55 (view ticket information)

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Schwing’s Final Show of 2023

Find your favorite flannel shirt, dig out those butterfly clips, and head on over to The Yard Food Park because the 90s are making a triumphant return! Get ready for “Schwing: A Tribute to the 90s,” an electrifying performance that brings together all your beloved 90s hits. It’s time to party like it’s 1999!

Date: November 18, 2023
Time:  8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: The Yard Food Park // 4106 State St
Cost: FREE

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Christmas Tree Family Paint Class

We Make Art and Sweetly Baked are teaming up for some family fun and creative bonding at their Christmas Tree Family Paint Class. Materials and 11×14 canvases will be provided. The best part? No prior experience is necessary! Just come with your loved ones and prepare to let your creativity flow. Be sure to buy your tickets soon to reserve a space.

Date: November 19, 2023
Time:  2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Sweetly Baked // 680 Hawthorne Ave SE, Salem
Cost: $25 per person (view ticket information)

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Amazing Bubble Man at Salem’s Chemeketa College Auditorium

Prepare to be mesmerized by the Amazing Bubble Man, Louis Pearl! With over 30 years of experience, Louis has been captivating audiences worldwide with his enchanting blend of bubble artistry, magic, science, and pure fun. A beloved figure at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, he’s enjoyed an impressive 14 years of sold-out shows, making him a true master of the bubble craft.

Date: November 19, 2023
Time:  2:00 PM – 3:10 PM
Location: Chemeketa Auditorium
Cost: $12 – $17 (view ticket information)

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Wrap up your weekend in style with these fantastic events happening in Salem, Oregon and surrounding areas. Mark your calendars, get involved in local community happenings, and make this weekend memorable with friends and family.