If you love craft beer, look no further than Salem, Oregon. Salem is home to a thriving craft beer scene that truly has a draft for everyone that walks through their doors. You'll find casual spots to unwind with friends, brewery tours and festivals, and lively community spaces. Let's explore some of the top local breweries (and one cider house) that define Salem's craft beer scene. Santiam Brewing Santiam Brewing is well-known for their British-style ales, but they also have a selection of American and European brews. This cozy British brewpub features a rotating tap list that includes IPAs, stouts, and unique seasonal offerings. Their "Bloody Hell" (a blood orange and grapefruit-infused IPA) and "Pirate Stout" (a barrel-aged rum a…

The weekend is nearly here! Check out this exciting line-up of local events in Salem, Oregon. 43rd Annual Salem Fall RV Show Oregon's multi-dealer RV show is back for four days at the Oregon State Fair & Expo Center. From October 10 to 13, explore hundreds of new and used RVs across 200,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor displays. With special "show-only" pricing and end-of-year closeouts, this is the perfect opportunity for travelers, sportsmen, and outdoor enthusiasts to find their next adventure vehicle. Admission is good for all four days! Date: October 10 - 13, 2024Time: Thu - Sat: 10 AM - 7 PM | Sun: 10 AM - 5 PMLocation: Oregon State Fair & Expo Center // 2330 17th St NE Salem, OR 97303Cost (CASH ONLY): $9.00 for…

We recently had a chance to hear the inspiring story of Azucena Alvarez, owner of Azucena’s Cleaning LLC, and how she has built a thriving business from the ground up, combining hard work, family support, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Today, her business is known for its dependable and detailed cleaning services, serving both residential and commercial clients. But the journey to success wasn't easy. Azucena’s story is one of perseverance, overcoming obstacles, and always striving for more. Photo Credit: Azucena's Cleaning Early Beginnings: Learning to Clean from a Young Age Azucena’s journey started long before she became a business owner. Born and raised in Mexico, she began developing her cleaning skills at…

As autumn breezes into Salem, Oregon, it's time to stock up on cozy fall essentials. From stylish sweaters to statement accessories, Salem’s boutiques are brimming with trendy and unique options to help you build the perfect fall wardrobe. Top Drawer Top Drawer Boutique is a Salem staple for women’s fashion. Open seven days a week, this boutique is a go-to spot for all your fall fashion needs. Their latest collection includes cozy essentials like sweaters, jeans, hats, and beanies—everything you need to stay warm and stylish this season. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Top Drawer Boutique (@topdrawersalem) Olivia's Olivia’s is a chic women’s clothing store that focuses on empo…

B2 Community Care recently hosted the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Greeters networking event at the Yard Food Park in Salem. The local business community gathered to learn about B2 Community Care’s mission and its impact on individuals with disabilities. Co-owners Baylee and Blair Goldstein, along with Regional Employment Specialist Katie Goltz, shared the story of their organization's rapid growth and the ways it provides crucial services in Salem and surrounding areas. B2 Community Care started just six years ago with a small team and big ambitions. Co-owner Baylee Goldstein, the Creative Director, explained how she and her husband Blair, who also co-owns the company, didn’t foresee how quickly their vision would grow into the t…

Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Salem? Check out these local events happening from October 4 - 6, 2024! Day of Free Dentistry Hunsaker Dental is hosting its 10th annual Day of Free Dentistry, offering free dental care to those 18 and older who are unable to receive care elsewhere. Attendees can choose from a cleaning, filling, or extraction, with the first 75 patients guaranteed to be seen. Registration starts at 7:30 AM, so early arrival is encouraged. Be sure to dress for the weather and bring snacks, water, and chairs while you wait. Date: October 4, 2024Time: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PMLocation: Hunsaker Dental // 1595 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR 97302Cost: FREE Learn More Pumpkin Patches & Harvest Fest…

Salem is known for its beautiful natural scenery and temperate climate, making it a prime location for stunning and functional landscape designs. As homeowners increasingly look to blend beauty, sustainability, and practicality, several trends have emerged that fit perfectly with the unique environment of the Willamette Valley. From eco-friendly solutions to maximizing outdoor living spaces, these landscape design trends are reshaping yards across Salem. Native Plants Native plants are gaining popularity in Salem as more homeowners recognize the ecological and practical benefits they offer. These plants, like the Oregon grape, evergreen huckleberry, and salal, are well-adapted to the region’s specific soil and climate conditions, m…

Fall is a magical time in Salem, Oregon, where the crisp air and beautiful autumn colors signal the start of harvest season. If you're ready to embrace all things fall, there's no better way to celebrate than by visiting a local harvest festival or pumpkin patch! If you're looking for family-friendly activities, the perfect pumpkin, or just a fun weekend outing, here are five local pumpkin patches you won’t want to miss. Bauman's Farm and Garden Located in Gervais, Bauman's Farm and Garden is a favorite for fall activities. Their Harvest Festival features everything from a giant pumpkin patch and hayrides to a corn maze, dark hay maze, apple cannon, and petting zoo. Don't forget to enjoy their fresh apple cider and apple cider don…

On a bright morning in September, members of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce gathered at The Rec in Keizer for their regular Greeters networking event. This time, the focus was on community strength and resilience, led by Jim Seymour, Director of the Community Business and Education Leaders Collaborative (CBEL). The presentation, filled with insightful stories, a powerful video, and heartfelt messages, highlighted CBEL’s mission to support families in the Salem-Keizer area through grassroots involvement, collaboration, and civic engagement. Jim Seymour began the presentation by explaining the heart of CBEL’s work: bringing together leaders from business, education, and the community to find solutions for the challenges families f…

Looking for something fun to do in Salem this weekend? Check out these festivals, fundraisers, and family fun—oh my! Ladies Night at the Honky Tonk Bar & Grill Join Honky Tonk Bar & Grill for another fun-filled Ladies Night on Friday, September 27th! Enjoy food and drink specials, permanent jewelry, a charm bar, rancher hat bar, and fine line tattoos from local vendors. The event is perfect for a night out with friends and family. TVs will be on and there will be Whiskey specials at the bar. Date: September 27, 2024Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PMLocation: Honky Tonk Bar & Grill // 2275 McGilchrist St SE, Salem, OR 97302Cost: FREE to attend, items for purchase Learn More Family Game Night Miller’s BBQ…

In November 2022, Heather Schiess’s life changed forever. Her son Tristin, a young man known for his immense kindness and love for others, passed away tragically, leaving behind a legacy of compassion that Heather could not let go unnoticed. From this deep loss emerged Tristin's Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to continuing Tristin’s spirit of giving through random acts of kindness across the Salem community. Honoring Tristin’s Legacy For those who knew Tristin, his kindness was legendary. Heather describes him as the type of person who "carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, especially for those closest to him." Whether he was paying for someone’s meal without a second thought or offering an uplif…

Salem, Oregon, and its surrounding areas are home to a thriving disc golf community, with several courses offering a variety of challenges for all skill levels. Let’s explore nine exciting disc golf courses in and around the Salem area that are perfect for your next round. Woodmansee Disc Golf Course Woodmansee Disc Golf Course in Salem offers a 9-hole, 18-tee pad layout, providing a challenging and scenic experience. The fairways are mostly flanked by trees, with some holes requiring precise throws through tighter wooded areas. The course features a few elevation changes, both uphill and downhill. With DISCatcher Pro targets, concrete and rubber tees, and a mixed-use setting in a public park, it's a great spot for all skill levels…

Looking for exciting things to do this weekend in Salem? From fall festivals to live music and community celebrations, here's a great lineup of events happening in the area! Polk County Fall 2024 Home Show The Polk County Fall Home Show returns for three days of home and garden inspiration. With over 50 vendors, you'll discover a wide range of products and services to help improve your living spaces. Date: September 20 - 22, 2024Time: Friday: 12 PM - 6 PM | Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM | Sunday: 10 AM - 3 PMLocation: Polk County Fairgrounds // 520 S Pacific Hwy W, Rickreall, OR 97371Cost: FREE Learn more Rodeo of Champions - 2024 NPRA Finals Don’t miss the thrilling Rodeo of Champions at the 2024 NPRA Finals! Watch as…

Attendees at the recent (CBW) Salem Chamber Business Women's luncheon had the privilege of hearing Marion County Commissioner Danelle Bethell’s powerful and insightful talk on how citizens can actively participate in Oregon’s legislative process. She highlighted that the upcoming long session of the Oregon Legislature will focus on three critical issues: transportation, education, and the re-criminalization of drugs, along with a host of other issues. While these topics are heavy, Bethell emphasized that regular citizens can make a real difference in shaping policies—if they engage effectively. So, how do you get involved in a system that can seem overwhelming at times? According to Bethell, it boils down to five essential steps…

If you're in Salem, Oregon, and craving flavorful, authentic Indian food, you're in luck! The city is home to a variety of excellent Indian restaurants, offering everything from spicy curries to aromatic biryanis. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a sit-down dining experience, here are eight Indian restaurants in Salem that you won't want to miss. India Palace India Palace on Court Street has been a staple in Salem's Indian food scene since 1992. Known for their warm service, experienced chefs, extensive menu, and flavorful cuisine, they feature both North and South Indian specialties. Popular dishes include the Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Tikka Masala, and Lamb Vindaloo. They also offer a variety of vegetarian options on thei…

Looking for fun activities in the Salem area this weekend? From annual activities like the Salem Art Fair & Festival and Mt Angel Oktoberfest to live music and outdoor adventures, check out these exciting events happening around town. 75th Annual Salem Art Fair & Festival Join the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Salem Art Fair & Festival! Enjoy nearly 200 artists, a diverse lineup of musical performances, and activities for all ages. With a rich history of bringing the best art and music to Salem, this year's festival promises something for everyone. Date: September 13 - 15, 2024Time: Friday & Saturday 9 AM - 10 PM | Sunday 9 AM - 5 PM (activities during those time windows vary)Location: Bush's Pastu…

In a world that’s increasingly turning toward renewable energy, Pure Energy Group stands as a leader in providing local solar solutions for homeowners, farmers, and businesses in Oregon. Founded by Matthew Henderson, Travis Sheffield, and Jordan Sinn, the company has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving business. With a commitment to being local, fair, and transparent, Pure Energy Group is helping Oregonians tap into the power of solar energy, one project at a time. Matthew Henderson Travis Sheffield Jordan Sinn Matthew Henderson’s journey into the solar industry began in 2009. Working for a large solar company, he gained valuable experience in selling solar systems. However, the company didn’t build its…

On Monday, the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce held the season kickoff to it's popular Forum Lunch series. Four leaders in Oregon’s education system gathered to discuss a topic that weighs heavily on the minds of many in the community: the future of education. Dr. Salam Noor (Mountain West Center For Community Excellence), Dr. Jesse Peters (President of Western Oregon University), Dr. Jessica Howard (President of Chemeketa Community College), and Superintendent Andrea Castañeda of the Salem Keizer School District shared their perspectives on how education must evolve to meet the challenges of the future. The discussion highlighted how changes in the educational landscape affect not only students but also the broader Salem Keizer communit…

If you’ve already explored some of the incredible tasting rooms featured in part one of our Salem wine-tasting guide, get ready for more! Oregon’s Willamette Valley is home to many breathtaking vineyards and top-tier wineries. In this follow-up, we'll take a look at 11 more vineyards in the Salem, Oregon area where you can experience the beauty of the region and discover even more of Oregon’s finest wines. Ankeny Vineyard Ankeny Vineyard has been crafting estate-grown wines since 1980. This family-owned vineyard specializes in estate-grown wines, with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris being their signature focuses. Ankeny Vineyard's tasting room is known for their relaxed, friendly atmosphere, beautiful farmland views, and wood-fired p…

Get ready for a night of music, community, and fun at the Mavericks Music & More event on Friday, September 13, 2024, hosted by Mavericks Independent Baseball League at the iconic Salem Keizer Volcanoes Stadium. Sponsored by Kickin' Cancer, this free event promises to be an exciting evening filled with entertainment, as a way to say thank you to the community for their support of Kickin' Cancer in 2024. Whether you're a fan of live music, sports, or simply enjoy coming together for a good cause, this is an event you won’t want to miss. The festivities will kick off at 5:30 PM and run until 9:00 PM, with a dynamic lineup of activities designed to engage all ages. Headlining the night will be local favorites, the "Fam Jam" band, wh…

The vibrant buzz of creativity is about to blanket Bush’s Pasture Park with the return of the Salem Art Fair & Festival, happening September 13-15, 2024. This 75th anniversary promises a reimagined layout ensuring easier access to a plethora of artists and vendors while maximizing the natural shade of the park for a more relaxed experience. Art enthusiasts can expect an eclectic mix of mediums from over 200 artists featuring 2D and 3D mixed media, ceramics, fiber wearables, and more. Music lovers are in for a treat with a lineup that offers something for every ear, ranging from local buskers to full-stage performances. The much anticipated Opening Night Party on September 12 at Bush’s Pasture Park offers an immersive start to…

As we welcome September, Salem has a great lineup of events to help you enjoy the last days of summer. Let’s check out what’s happening! Boot Scoot and Brew Kick off your weekend at the Boot Scoot and Brew at the Gerry Frank - Salem Rotary Amphitheater, hosted by Center 50+. Enjoy live music from the Roundhouse Band, Jerry Kilgore, and the Rock 'n' Roll Cowboys throughout the night. With raffle prizes, food trucks, refreshing beverages, and plenty of fun under shady canopies, this event is the perfect opportunity to kick back and enjoy the summer vibes. Shuttle services are available to and from Center 50+. Date: September 6, 2024Time: 4:00 PMLocation: Gerry Frank - Salem Rotary Amphitheater // 200 Water St NE, Sa…