Salem is packed with creative workshops, live music, family festivals, community fundraisers, theater, dancing, and more this weekend. Start planning your local adventures! Mushroom Growing Workshop Dig into the fascinating world of fungi during this hands-on workshop at Pringle Creek Sustainable Living Center. Participants will learn about mycelium and explore practical ways to grow mushrooms at home, with kid-friendly activities included. All ages, learning abilities, and identities are welcome. Date: August 7, 2026Time: 5:30 PM–7:30 PMLocation: Pringle Creek Sustainable Living Center // 3911 Village Center Dr SE, Salem, OR 97302Cost: FREE (view registration information) Learn More Date-Night Dinner/Cruise Paint Party Turn date night into…

Salem’s local coffee scene has something for nearly every kind of visit. You’ll find specialty roasters focused on the details of each cup, spacious coffeehouses where groups can gather, neighborhood cafes for a relaxed morning, and downtown shops that stay open well beyond the usual afternoon closing time. The best coffee shop for you might depend on more than the coffee itself. Seating, food, parking, noise, hours, location, and the overall atmosphere can shape the experience just as much as what’s in your mug. Note: Hours, menus, events, and seating arrangements can change. Check with each business directly before making a special trip or planning a large gathering. Who This Guide Is For This guide isn’t a ranked list. Each coffee shop s…

Finding stable housing can be a life-changing step for a veteran experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. But moving into a home is only the beginning. Gathering everyday necessities like soap, bedding, cookware, food, and cleaning supplies can quickly strain a limited budget. Courtney Place Veterans Housing is hoping to fill that gap through their new Essential Goods Pantry in southeast Salem. Open to veterans throughout the community, the pantry provides free household items, hygiene products, food, furniture, and other practical resources. Just as importantly, it creates a welcoming place where veterans can connect with people who understand their experiences and are ready to help. Meeting Everyday Needs with Dignity Many program…

This weekend, Salem is offering plenty of reasons to step away from the usual routine and see what’s unfolding around the city. NW MiniTruckin Nationals The first-ever Northwest MiniTruckin Nationals is rolling into the Oregon State Fairgrounds for a full weekend of custom trucks, judging, games, awards, raffles, cruising, and community fun. Vehicle registration and camping are sold out, but spectator admission will be available at the gate. Date: July 31 - August 2, 2026Time: Friday 9 AM - 8 PM | Saturday 9 AM - 8 PM or after awards | Sunday 9 AM - 2 PMLocation: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: $20 for spectators at the gate Learn More Salem Photo Expo The Shutterbug is transforming its Salem Superstore int…

Finding a restaurant that works for the whole family is not always easy. Parents are often looking for familiar choices for younger eaters, dietary flexibility, room for a group, quick counter service, or something entertaining to keep children engaged. Salem offers options for many different kinds of family outings. You can start the morning with pancakes, watch airplanes near the Salem airport, choose from several food carts, play a board game, or add a round of miniature golf to your dinner. Restaurant hours, menus, food-cart lineups, fees, and activities can change. Make sure you check directly with the restaurant before heading out. Who Should Read This? The businesses below are presented as editorial selections rather than a strict ra…

Getting around South Salem could become safer, easier, and more convenient. Cherriots has purchased property for a new South Salem Transit Center, marking an important step toward improving transportation options in one of the city’s growing areas. The future facility is planned for the northeast corner of Commercial Street SE and Wiltsey Road SE. A Huge Step for South Salem Transit South Salem does not currently have a dedicated transit facility, which can leave riders with longer walks, fewer opportunities to transfer between routes, and limited service coverage. The planned transit center is intended to create smoother connections among local bus routes, paratransit services, bicycles, and other micromobility options. For residents who d…

Salem has plenty happening this weekend, with local events that make it easy to get out, connect, and support the people and places that make the community special. Oregon Specialty Group Hoopla XXVII Oregon Specialty Group Hoopla XXVII, presented by Toyota and Dutch Bros Coffee, returns to the Oregon State Capitol for four days of basketball, community, and summer fun in Salem. The event features 1x1, 2x2, and 3x3 tournaments, along with the high-energy Gauntlet competition. Athletes, families, and fans can compete on the court or cheer from the sidelines at one of the Northwest’s largest street basketball events. Date: July 23–26, 2026Times: Chuck E. Cheese 1x1 Tourney: July 23, 4:00 PM–8:30 PMKona Ice 2x2 Tourney: July 24, 1:00 PM–8:30 P…

You don't have to leave Salem to find a memorable night of live music. The city’s music scene includes historic downtown theaters, intimate restaurant lounges, neighborhood pubs, breweries, food cart destinations, and community event spaces. Depending on the night, you might find touring performers, jazz, rock, country, blues, Latin music, local singer-songwriters, or family-friendly outdoor concerts. Because entertainment schedules can change, always check the venue’s current calendar or social media pages before heading out. Ticket requirements, cover charges, age restrictions, seating arrangements, and performance times vary by event. Who Should Read This? This guide is for: Salem residents looking for a local night out Visitors planning…

For many families in Salem, buying a home can feel increasingly out of reach. A local partnership between Habitat for Humanity of the Mid-Willamette Valley and the Salem Housing Authority hopes to change that by bringing 33 affordable homes to the market for qualified local buyers. While many affordable housing projects focus on apartments and other rental options, this initiative is centered on something different: helping more families become homeowners and put down lasting roots in the Salem community. Creating a Path to Homeownership The partnership is designed to help bridge the gap between renting and purchasing a home at market price. By acquiring properties and making them available through Habitat for Humanity’s affordable homeowne…

Salem’s weekend calendar is packed with plenty of reasons to get out and explore. Perritos Only Presents: That’s Not Me Comedy Tour Featuring Concrete Perritos Only brings comedian and entertainer Concrete to Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre for a lively night of stand-up. Known for his work across comedy, music, film, radio, and social media, Concrete has built a nationwide following with his energetic storytelling and distinctive humor. A limited post-show meet-and-greet experience is also available as an add-on. Date: July 17, 2026Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM; show begins at 8:00 PMLocation: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre // 187 High St. NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: $35–$55 (view ticket information) Learn More LifeSource Bulk Sale 2026 Stock up…

When you feel like spending a day antiquing, it can be tempting to drive north to Portland. The city may have a large vintage scene, but Salem shoppers don't have to leave town to find interesting antiques, vintage clothing, architectural salvage, collectibles, home décor, and nostalgic toys. Salem’s vintage shopping scene includes traditional antique malls, curated clothing stores, multi-vendor marketplaces, salvage shops, and specialty retailers. Several are located downtown, making it possible to visit multiple stores during one outing. Others are found along or near Commercial Street, where shoppers can focus on furniture, décor, collectibles, and larger vendor spaces. This guide is designed for Salem-area residents as well as visitors…

The sights, sounds, and flavors of summer filled the Oregon State Fairgrounds from July 9–12 as the 2026 Marion County Fair brought the community together for four days of local fun. This year’s “Made in Marion” theme celebrated the people, traditions, and agricultural roots that make Marion County special. From youth livestock exhibits and creative competitions to carnival rides, live entertainment, and plenty of fair food, the annual event offered something for visitors of all ages. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights from this beloved Salem-area summer tradition. Celebrating Local 4-H and FFA Youth Local youth were at the heart of the Marion County Fair. Members of area 4-H and FFA chapters filled the barns and pavilions with li…

Salem has a exciting weekend ahead with the Marion County Fair, local theater and live music, summer gatherings, creative meetups, and more. The Imperfect Murder Society: An Improvised Murder Mystery A secret society, fancy ballgowns, clinking champagne glasses, and one very mysterious murder set the scene at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. The Imperfect Murder Society is bringing a PG-13 improvised murder mystery to the 4th floor ballroom, where audience suggestions help shape the suspects, surprise reveals, and even the genre of the case. Clever improviser Owen Lyon-Smith leads the investigation in this one-night show, and guests are encouraged to dress as fancy—or as suspicious—as they would like. Date: July 10, 2026Time: 7:30 PM - 9:30…

There are many reasons why families might seek an indoor activity for kids. It might be raining nonstop in February, too hot for the playground in July, or maybe your kids just need somewhere to burn off some energy during summer break. No matter what time of year it is, Salem has lots of indoor places where families can play, explore, and create. This guide is designed for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and visiting families looking for reliable indoor kids activities in Salem, Oregon. Some of these spots are best for high-energy play, while others are better for toddlers, creative kids, quieter afternoons, birthday parties, or low-key family time. Before you go, always check current hours, pricing, age rules, waivers, and reservation…

There’s a new food truck in Salem, Oregon, and it’s serving up more than tacos, burritos, and bacon-wrapped hot dogs. HYB is also creating meaningful job opportunities for local youth who are working hard to build confidence, gain experience, and take positive steps toward the future. Founded by local counselor and nonprofit leader Sonny Saltalamachia, HYB uses employment as a way to support young people who have faced serious challenges, including gang violence, homelessness, and personal hardship. Through the food truck, youth are learning practical job skills while being surrounded by mentorship, encouragement, and community support. A Food Truck with a Bigger Mission The HYB food truck celebrated its grand opening on Friday, June 26, ou…

Celebrate Fourth of July weekend with local events, live entertainment, family fun, fireworks, community gatherings, and so much more happening around Salem. Wall of Honor Display Volcanoes Stadium invites the community to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country during the Wall of Honor Display. This meaningful Independence Day weekend tribute is free and open to the public, with special display hours throughout the weekend. Guests can also enjoy a weekend of baseball at Volcanoes Stadium, including post-game fireworks on Friday and Saturday and a doubleheader on Sunday. Date: July 3 - 5, 2026Time: Friday 12 PM - 8 PM | Saturday 12 PM - 8 PM | Sunday 12 PM - 6 PMLocation: Volcanoes Stadium //…

Finding the right jeweler is about more than choosing something beautiful. For many Salem shoppers, jewelry comes with a story: an engagement ring, a family heirloom, a graduation gift, a watch that needs careful repair, or a custom piece that has to feel personal from the start. Salem’s jewelry scene includes long-running family jewelers, downtown goldsmiths, repair-focused shops, and nearby Keizer options that serve the broader Salem-Keizer community. Shopping for a wedding band, resizing a ring, restoring a sentimental piece, or looking for a gift with lasting meaning? These local jewelers are worth knowing. The best choice depends on what you need, your style, your timeline, and the kind of service you are looking for. Who Should Read T…

For 50 years, Center 50+ has been helping Salem adults stay active, connected, and supported. What began as the Salem Senior Center has grown into a welcoming community hub with classes, wellness programs, social activities, volunteer opportunities, and resources for adults 50 and older. Now, as Center 50+ celebrates its 50th anniversary, the City of Salem is continuing to bring more programs directly into local neighborhoods. Through the WOW Van (also known as Wellness on Wheels), Center 50+ is helping seniors connect with activities, services, and friendly faces without always needing to travel to the main facility on Portland Road NE. Let’s take a closer look at how these mobile programs are serving Salem seniors right where they are. We…

The last weekend of June is bringing plenty of reasons to get out in Salem! 2026 Sumpter Annual Neighborhood Garage Sale The Sumpter Annual Neighborhood Garage Sale returns to the Sumpter area of SE Salem for a popular weekend of treasure hunting. Shoppers can explore around 100 participating homes within about one square mile (see boundaries below). Check the virtual map for daily details and featured items. Sale Boundaries: North: Kuebler BlvdEast: Sunnyside RdSouth: Mildred Ln (plus a few streets south)West: Liberty Rd Date: June 26–28, 2026Time: Exact times varyLocation: Sumpter Neighborhood // SE Salem, OR 97306Cost: FREE Learn More 2026 World Beat Festival The 2026 World Beat Festival brings Oregon’s largest multicultural celebration…

Looking for a place to eat in Salem where your dog can tag along? Salem has several restaurants, breweries, food carts, and patios that make outdoor dining with a pup possible. The important thing to know is that dog-friendly dining in Oregon usually means designated outdoor seating. Most restaurants require dogs to be well-behaved, leashed, under control, and kept off chairs, tables, and other furniture. Because dog policies can change with weather, staffing, events, seating layout, and health requirements, call ahead before visiting any restaurant with your dog. A quick phone call can save you from arriving when the patio is closed, full, or not available for pets that day. Quick Comparison RestaurantBest ForDog-Friendly Seating NotesGood…

Summer is here, and that means many local families are looking for fun, safe, and enriching ways to keep kids entertained while school is out. The Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion and Polk Counties is helping meet that need with summer camp opportunities for youth (K–12) across Salem and Keizer. Running from June 15 through August 28, 2026, these camps give kids and teens a place to learn, play, make friends, and enjoy a full summer of memorable experiences. A Summer Camp Option for Local Families The Boys & Girls Club summer camps are designed with local families in mind. Campers can attend by the week, making it easier for parents and caregivers to choose the schedule that works best for them. Families can register through the o…

Celebrate Juneteenth, Father’s Day weekend, and the first day of summer with local music, family fun, community gatherings, and seasonal events throughout Salem. Salem-Keizer Juneteenth The Salem-Keizer NAACP invites the community to gather at Salem Riverfront Park for its Juneteenth Celebration. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, local vendors and Black-owned businesses, a free community meal, family activities, cultural and educational experiences, and a scholarship award presentation supporting local students of color! Date: June 19, 2026Time: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PMLocation: Salem Riverfront Park // 183 Front St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: FREE Learn More Superhero Run by CASA of Marion County CASA of Marion County is bringing its Superhero R…