In downtown Salem, where the past meets the present, Salem natives Alex and Andrew Hussey are scripting a new chapter in Salem's cultural narrative. As co-owners of To The Ceiling Entertainment and the event managers for Salem's Historic Grand Theatre, the Hussey brothers are key players in the expansion of live entertainment in Salem, Oregon with hopes to reshape the local scene. The seeds for To The Ceiling Entertainment were sown during Alex's eight-year tenure as Technical Director at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. When the owners of the Theatre approached him in the fall of 2023 offering him the opportunity to do a show, Alex jumped at the chance. “I did one show by myself and quickly realized I needed to handle everythi…

Acres of Hope Youth Ranch is changing lives, one young person at a time. Located just outside of West Salem, founders Emmy and Justin Arana have created a comfortable place where the mutual healing power of equine therapy and mentorship fosters growth, healing, and a renewed sense of hope among hurting youth. This unique non-profit is full of compassion and support, dedicated to addressing the complex challenges facing today's adolescents. Founded on the principles of empathy, healing, and personal growth, Acres of Hope provides a seemingly unconventional sanctuary in today's busy digital world where young lives are not only loved and understood but genuinely nurtured towards a brighter future. As founders, Emmy & J…

Another great weekend is approaching in Salem, Oregon, and with it comes a fantastic lineup of local events. From agriculture and gardening to family-friendly roller skating, Salem has something special for you. Let's take a look at just a few things the weekend has in store. 20th Annual Bauman's GardenPalooza Bauman's Farm and Garden invites everyone for GardenPalooza 2024, an exciting two-day event! With over 30 vendors on site, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a vast selection of plants and garden art, perfect for igniting a passion for gardening. In addition to the vendors, Bauman's country store, produce department, bakery, deli, coffee shop, and nursery will be open for visitors to enjoy. Free admission and p…

If you have a family or friend group with different tastes, food preferences, and dietary restrictions, you likely know how difficult it can be to agree on a restaurant. If this seems familiar, you might want to try visiting a food cart pod or food hall! These unique eateries offer a vast variety of food options for every type of palette, and many also host events for the community. Salem, Oregon has several fantastic local options that are a testament to the city's culinary diversity and community spirit. The Yard Food Park The Yard Food Park is a family-built community space that emerged from a dream to create "a quintessentially Oregon experience," featuring a rustic feel and great food. They offer a wide variety of dining option…

A new haven for board game enthusiasts has emerged at the Broadway Coffeehouse in Salem Oregon. Dubbed the "Tabletop Loft," this innovative space is redefining the local cafe culture by blending the love for ethically sourced coffee with the joy of board gaming. Manager Matt Mlinarcik shares the vision behind this unique addition and how it’s creating a buzz among locals and visitors alike. Matt Mlinarcik isn't just the manager of Broadway Coffeehouse; he's the visionary behind the Tabletop Loft. With a tenure of almost five years at Broadway and over two years in his current role, Matt has witnessed the coffeehouse evolve. Yet, it’s his passion for board games and community building that sparked the idea for the Tabletop Lo…

Unique flavors are simmering in Salem, Oregon. Catharine and Matt Kuerbis, the duo behind HYCH: Heat You Can Handle have embarked on a culinary adventure that spans continents, from the lush landscapes of Costa Rica to the local Salem community. Their journey is not just about crafting hot sauces but about creating experiences that bring people together through the universal language of food. The story of HYCH: Heat You Can Handle begins in Costa Rica, where Catharine and Matt were immersed in a world of vibrant flavors and communal meals. It was here, amidst the hustle and bustle of preparing food for music festival crews, that the idea of a sauce company took root. Matt's homemade sauces, born out of necessity and creati…

Welcome back to our weekly roundup of upcoming events in Salem, Oregon! This weekend, we're showcasing a variety of activities that are ready to captivate and entertain our community. First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Salem It's the first Friday of the month, which means it's time again for the First Friday Art Walk. This monthly event offers a vibrant evening of local art, pop-up events, live music, and more, inviting the community to explore downtown Salem from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Don't forget to get your Art Walk Passport for a chance to win the Art Walk Raffle Basket! View the list of April's participating businesses by clicking the link below. Date: April 5, 2024Time:  5:00 PM - 8:00 PMLocation: Downtown SalemCost: F…

Updated March 29, 2024 If you have a garden in Salem, Oregon, you might've already started seeds and planned every square inch of your garden beds. Salem has a great selection of local nurseries and garden centers, each ready to help you plan and cultivate your dream garden for the upcoming year. Here are a few that are open for the 2024 season. 13th Street Nursery 13th Street Nursery is ready to help you achieve your gardening dreams. Now open for the 2024 gardening season, the nursery invites gardening enthusiasts to explore their selection of soil and seeds that are fully stocked and ready for planting. Drawing on a rich history of serving the local gardening community, 13th Street Nursery prides itself on its deep-rooted pass…

If you're looking for something to do this Easter weekend, hop into the spirit with a basketful of egg-citing events right here in Salem, Oregon! Find our exciting list of local Easter Egg Hunts (and an honorable mention non-hunt Easter event) below. Easter Egg Hunt at South Salem Church of the Nazarene South Salem Church of the Nazarene is hosting their annual egg hunt for kids in preschool through 5th grade! Kids will search for eggs in age-appropriate groupings. Afterward, enjoy a barbecue, inflatables, and more! Date: March 30, 2024Time:  10:00 AMAddress: 1661 Boone Rd SE, Salem, ORCost: FREE Learn more Annual Easter Egg Hunt with Marion County Fire Join Salem's finest firefighters and EMTs in their annual …

Creating a spring break itinerary filled with excitement (and maybe some learning opportunities) in Salem, Oregon, can turn the dreaded "I'm bored!" into "That was awesome!" Here are a few ways to keep your kids entertained with a mix of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and just plain fun. Northern Lights Theatre Pub is Showing Extra Matinees Start your spring break with a movie at the Northern Lights Theatre Pub! They're showing extra matinees during spring break that are perfect for a family outing. Check their website for current movies and showtimes. It's a great way to relax and enjoy some entertainment with kids of various ages. Enchanted Forest Opens for Spring Break Enchanted Forest, a unique family-owne…

Dr. Matt Hennings DPT, OCS There's a physical therapy practice in Salem, Oregon that stands out not just for its innovative approach to wellness, but for the story of its founder, Matt Hennings, DPT, OCS. At Leading Edge Physical Therapy, Matt is redefining what it means to offer physical therapy by blending his unique journey into the field with a deep commitment to his clients' health and well-being. Matt's path to physical therapy began not in a classroom or a clinic, but at a friend's birthday party gone awry. At 13, an accident involving a golf cart and an unexpected tumble led Matt to his first encounter with physical therapy. "I had to go to therapy to regain motion and strength to be able to start playing sports again," M…

Salem, Oregon is alive this weekend with local events! Let's dive into the latest events that invite us together into community, encourage connections, and build great memories. Yard, Garden, & Home Show 2024 Mark your calendars for the 2024 Yard, Garden, & Home Show at the Oregon State Fair & Expo Center! Whether you're dreaming up your perfect spring and summer landscape, thinking about remodeling, or even interested in renting a chicken, this is your go-to destination. Thanks to event sponsors, parking and admission are free. Date: March 22-24, 2024Time:  Fri 11 AM - 5 PM | Sat 10 AM - 5 PM | Sun 10 AM - 5 PMLocation: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, ORCost: FREE Learn more St…

As summer break quickly approaches, the search for engaging and enriching experiences for our children kicks into high gear. Luckily for parents, there are many fantastic summer camps in Salem, Oregon that offer adventure, learning, and fun—tailored to a variety of ages and interests. Benefits of Camp Participation Summer camps for kids are more than just a way to pass the time—they're a gateway to new friendships, new discoveries, and new passions. They offer a supportive environment for children to challenge themselves, grow in their confidence, and learn valuable life skills. Many summer camps can also be a great opportunity to exercise both physical and mental energy during the summer months. How to Choose the Right Camp…

There are plenty of great local events to attend this weekend in Salem, Oregon! Here are just a few things to add to your calendar. She’s Speaking LIVE: A Salem Concert Celebrating Women Songwriters In celebration of Women's History Month, eight talented Oregon songwriters are uniting for a special concert. Beth Wood, LaRhonda Steele, Naomi LaViolette, Liz Chibucos, Lisa Mann, Bre Gregg, Arietta Ward, and Salem's Kristen Grainger will perform songs by women, about women, for everyone. Expect an evening filled with joy, sass, and powerful music that honors women's contributions to songwriting. Date: March 15, 2024Time:  8:00 PM Location: Salem's Historic Grand Theatre and Event Center // 187 High St NE, Salem, ORCost: $25 (…

As the sun starts breaking through the clouds and the days grow warmer, there's no better time to step outside and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The parks and trails of Salem, Oregon offer wonderful backdrops for anyone ready to explore the outdoors. Whether you're looking to ride your bike, spend some time birding, enjoy a picnic by the water, or simply take a leisurely walk in the park, these local natural areas are calling. Minto-Brown Island Park Sprawling over 1,200 acres, Minto-Brown Island Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in Salem. With more than 30 miles of trails that weave through forests, wetlands, and open areas, it's a perfect spot for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Much of the park se…

It's gearing up to be another weekend full of exciting events in Salem, Oregon! There are so many great opportunities to support local and be a part of the Salem community this month. Let's take a look at a few things on the event calendar: Sleeping Beauty, Briar Rose Enjoy Corban Theatre's opening weekend of "Sleeping Beauty, Briar Rose," directed by Jeremiah Price. Written by Max Bush, this adaptation of the classic fairy tale (inspired by Charles Perrault and the Brothers Grimm) unfolds as a prince discovers a young woman among ancient ruins, who recounts the tale of a kingdom's downfall and a curse placed on Princess Rose. Get your tickets now! Date: March 7-9 & 15-17, 2024Time:  7:30 PM (3/7 matinee @ 10:30 AM, …

When it comes to wedding planning, one of the first things you'll need to decide is where you'll be getting married. Choosing a venue can be influential for your entire celebration, from decor options to seating arrangements to catering decisions—and even your wedding date. If you're tying the knot in Salem, Oregon, there are many great local wedding venues to choose from. From picturesque vineyards to historic buildings, this guide aims to help jumpstart your planning process. Deepwood Museum & Gardens Exchange your vows within the lush gardens of Deepwood Museum & Gardens, who rents the historical estate and covered court area for events like weddings, receptions, and other celebrations. Managed by Friends of Deepwood, re…

Salem is bursting into March with a weekend full of activities that offer fun for everyone! From spring gardening workshops and live music to local theater productions, the city is alive. Let's take a look at a few events happening this weekend in Salem. 1980s Throwback Weekend at Willamette Valley Vineyards Willamette Valley Vineyards is celebrating 40 years of winemaking! Come by one of their locations and share in a special selection of wines from two of their vineyards planted in 1983: 2021 Bernau Block Pinot Noir and 2020 Elton Pinot Noir. You can also enjoy savings on their $83 Collection of 2022 Pinot Gris, 2022 Estate Chardonnay and 2022 Whole Cluster Pinot Noir. 80s costumes will get a bonus pour. Share your participa…

Calling all book lovers in Salem, Oregon! A new Barnes & Noble location might've opened recently, but did you know the Salem area has several local bookstores that would also love your support? Here are six local bookshops perfect for bookworms in Salem. The Book Bin The Book Bin is centrally located in downtown Salem and is open every day from 10 AM to 7 PM. This spot is a local favorite for its vast selection of new and used books, calendars, puzzles, and other bookish products. They offer a buying counter by appointment for those looking to sell books. Their resident cat, Rose, has lived in the store since 2013. You might find her snoozing in the store window or wandering the aisles. Stop by to peruse or make an appointmen…

Are you ready for another weekend full of local events in Salem, Oregon? Check out what's going on below and enjoy these opportunities to get involved in the community. World Beat Gallery Reception "Welcome Spring" Celebrate the unveiling of "Welcome Spring: Celebrations Around the World" at the World Beat Gallery! This new exhibit showcases how various cultures welcome the season of spring worldwide. The Gallery, located in the Salem Multicultural Institute, offers a year-round space for cultural communities to share their heritage. Date: February 23, 2024Time:  5:30 PM - 7:00 PMLocation: Salem Multicultural Institute // 390 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR Cost: FREE Learn more Trivia Night at Ankeny Vineyard Gath…

With each project, Sara Klindtworth, owner of Solid Roofing NW, is crafting more than just roofs—she's building dreams and strengthening the community in Salem, Oregon and the surrounding area, one shingle at a time. Sara's journey into the world of roofing wasn't planned; it unfolded unexpectedly in March of 2008. Pregnant with her oldest daughter and seeking employment, Sara found herself drawn into the roofing industry through her father-in-law's company. What began as a temporary gig soon evolved into a passion as Sara delved into the intricacies of the business, gradually assuming more significant responsibilities. As Sara's expertise and love for the industry grew, so did her desire to carve her own path. In 2018, she…

Updated November 25, 2024 When you get that tell-tale pizza craving, who do you call? Instead of dialing a chain, consider finding your next pie at one of Salem, Oregon's local pizzerias. From traditional family recipes to innovative creations, these Salem establishments bring homemade flavors, community spirit, and a personal touch to every slice. Here are a few of the best places to get local pizza in Salem. Christo's Pizzeria & Lounge Christo's Pizzeria & Lounge is a premier destination for artisan pizza and Italian eats in Salem. Offering a menu inspired by generations of Italian-American tradition, choose from pizzas, pastas, entrees, wine, and specialty cocktails. On Thursday and Saturday nights, the lounge transfor…