On those nights when you're hoping to enjoy dinner and a show, Salem has several great places where you can find live music. Let's explore a few options! (Note: Events featured below have already passed). Salem’s Historic Grand Built in 1900, Salem’s Historic Grand is a cornerstone of Salem's history, providing rich entertainment experiences in the heart of downtown. This historic venue hosts a variety of events, including live music and theatrical productions, in its beautifully restored Grand Theatre. Paradiso at the Grand Theatre is just next door, where you can enjoy upscale French and Latin-inspired cuisine before catching a performance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salem’s Historic Grand (@salemshistoricgrandtheatre) E…

When you step into Real Deals Salem, you’re not just entering a home decor and fashion store—you’re entering a space filled with family passion, creativity, and a deep commitment to quality. Co-owned by Dawn Sherwood and her daughters, Jenna Catino and Courtney Sherwood, this local gem offers a unique mix of carefully curated home decor and on-trend fashion. Located in Salem, OR, the store has become a go-to destination for those seeking something special for their home or wardrobe. Courtney, Dawn and Jenna, co-owners of Real Deals Salem OR * An Unexpected Opportunity Dawn Sherwood didn’t plan on becoming an owner of Real Deals Salem, but life had a way of steering her in a direction she never expected. Following the sudden passing of her h…

Manny Martinez doesn’t just teach guitar lessons, he inspires transformation. As a private guitar instructor in Salem, Oregon, and founder of the band and movement “Birth of Happiness,” Manny has built a life that resonates with passion, perseverance, and hope. Yet, behind his success lies a powerful story of overcoming addiction and rebuilding his life one step at a time. “Five and a half years ago, I didn’t even have a functional pair of shoes,” Manny shared, reflecting on his journey to sobriety. His candor and humility speak volumes about the depths he’s faced—and the heights he’s now striving to reach. The Struggle and Turning Point Manny’s battle with alcoholism wasn’t just severe; it was life-threatening. “At the height of my drinkin…

Get ready for another exciting weekend in Salem, Oregon! Enjoy festive holiday markets, community traditions, live music, captivating performances, and more. Holiday Village and Magic of Lights Kick off the holiday season at the Oregon State Fairgrounds with the brand-new Holiday Village, featuring live music, festive food and drinks, and classic carnival rides. Enjoy family-friendly activities, including photos with Santa on weekends and a miniature horse petting station! Admission is free, with parking available for $5 or free if you also tour FOX 12’s Magic of Lights. Carnival rides are $5 each or 5 for $20. Date: Starting November 22, 2024Time: Thursdays & Fridays 5 PM - 10 PM | Saturdays & Sundays 11 AM - 10 PMLocation: Oregon…

If you're craving Chinese cuisine in Salem, Oregon, there's no need to open a fortune cookie—we know you're already in luck! Let's take a look at ten of the top-rated Chinese restaurants around the city. China Gourmet Located at 1405 Broadway St NE, China Gourmet is owned by local Salem couple Bingo and Jade. Signature dishes include Chicken Mushroom Noodles, Crispy Gourmet Noodles, and Sweet and Sour Pork. Customers consistently praise their fresh ingredients, mouthwatering flavors, cozy dining room, and quick service. Visit Website Chen's Family Dish Chen's Family Dish, located at 2138 Lancaster Dr NE, is a welcoming spot for traditional Chinese cuisine. This family-owned restaurant is committed to providing hot soups, stir-fried classics…

It’s a heartbreaking reality: too many Oregon families have been shattered by the devastating effects of fentanyl poisoning. This potent synthetic opioid analgesic is responsible for an alarming rise in overdoses, taking lives at an unprecedented rate. But there’s hope—through prevention, education, and community action, we can make a difference and save lives. Fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. A dose as small as a few grains of sand can be fatal. Even worse, it’s often hidden in counterfeit pills or mixed into other substances without the user’s knowledge. This silent killer doesn’t discriminate—it affects families, friends, and communities across Oregon. Education Is Key to Prevention Th…

Enjoy a great weekend in Salem with these community events! Park After Dark Hosted by the City of Salem Recreation Services, Park After Dark invites kids aged 9-12 (and their families) to Minto-Brown Island Park for a guided 2-mile walk, embracing the sounds and sights of nature. With a bit of luck, participants will encounter the symphony of owls, crickets, frogs, and possibly spot bats. Be sure to dress for the weather—rain or shine! Date: November 15 - 16, 2024Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PMLocation: Minto-Brown Island Park // 2200 Minto Island Rd SE, Salem, OR 97302Cost: $10 per person or $20 per family (view ticket information) Learn More Winter Soirée at Ankeny Vineyard Enjoy an intimate evening at Ankeny Vineyard with exclusive seating for 6…

For residents and business owners who are looking to maintain the trees on their property, having a reliable tree care provider is essential. From trimming back overgrown branches, removing a hazardous tree, or grinding down an old stump, Salem, OR is home to many skilled tree care professionals that are ready to help with your tree needs. Let's take a look at some of the top-rated local tree care companies that offer expert services to keep your trees healthy and your property safe. Mountain View Tree Service Mountain View Tree Service, a locally-owned business with roots dating back to the 1960s, offers comprehensive tree care services in Salem and the surrounding areas. Services include tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, ro…

This weekend in Salem has a great lineup of local events, including holiday bazaars, free music performances, and other community gatherings. Let's get into the list! Sip & Shop Kick off the holiday season with GA At Home’s annual Sip & Shop Christmas grand-opening! Enjoy exclusive event-only discounts, raffle giveaways, and festive drinks and appetizers. Runaway Kitchen will also be serving up smash burgers. Date: November 8, 2024Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PMLocation: GA At Home // 5711 Gaffin Rd SE, Salem, OR 97317Cost: FREE to attend, items for purchase Learn More SamaZama Performs Experience the enchanting sounds of the SamaZama Koto/Cello Duo at the Salem Public Library. SamaZama blends the Japanese koto (played by Masumi Timson) wit…

When you're in the mood for a delicious sandwich, Salem's got you covered. From cold cuts and classic deli creations to unique twists on your favorite flavors, these sandwich spots deliver in taste, quality, and creativity. Let's explore some of the best local places to find a tasty sandwich in Salem, Oregon. Valiant the Sandwich Valiant the Sandwich on Court Street has quickly become a local favorite for their adventurous and inventive sandwiches, like the Coxstolsoy Cheesesteak and the Cubano But Like Tampa. Their menu focuses on bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and some of the most creative names on the block. Visit Website View this post on Instagram A post shared by Valiant the Sandwich (@valianteats) Cozzie’s NY Deli Cozzie’s NY Deli…

As the owner and operator of Pasta Boss, Kevin Ziebart brings a refreshing take on Italian cuisine with a unique concept that has Salem residents buzzing: a build-your-own pasta bowl experience with unlimited toppings—all for one price. Located in North Salem across the parking lot from Fred Meyer on Broadway St NE, Pasta Boss is more than just another restaurant; it’s the culmination of Kevin’s vision and hard work in creating a place where families and food lovers can come together for a quality, customizable meal. Kevin’s story begins in North Salem, where he was born and raised. With a long-standing love for feeding people and a talent for entertaining, he always dreamed of opening a restaurant. “I’ve always enjoyed cooking and feeding…

Can you believe November is upon us? Let's welcome the month by attending some of these great local events that are going on in Salem. (We also had to include some Halloween events in case you or your family are still looking for something to do). Halloween Events: Halloween Weekend Chocolate and Wine Pairing From October 31 through November 3, Left Coast Estate is offering an exclusive Halloween weekend experience with a chocolate and wine pairing. Date: October 31 - November 3, 2024Time: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PMLocation: Left Coast Estate // 4225 N Pacific Hwy #99W, Rickreall, OR 97371Cost: $25 (view reservation information) Learn More Trick-or-Treating at Deepwood! Bring your little ones to Deepwood Museum & Gardens for Halloween trick-or-…

Salem, Oregon is a city bursting with creativity and artistic expression. The local art scene includes everything from traditional galleries and art pop-ups to museums and public art installations. If you love art or are simply looking for a creative way to spend an afternoon, these local art galleries and installations are worth a visit. Salem Art Association: Bush Barn Art Center + Annex The Salem Art Association (SAA) operates the Bush Barn Art Center + Annex, a cornerstone of Salem’s art community. SAA is dedicated to fostering creativity and arts education, hosting events, classes, and art programs for all ages throughout the year. They also host the annual Salem Art Fair & Festival, the largest art festival in Oregon! Located in t…

BOO! 👻 It's Halloweekend in Salem, Oregon, which means there are tons of Halloween events happening around the city. Check out this lineup of family-friendly events, costume contests, and other local celebrations happening from October 25-27th. 🎃 Kroc Pool Pumpkin Palooza Join the Kroc Center for the return of their annual Pumpkin Palooza! Enjoy swimming in a floating pumpkin patch, hunting for eyeballs, a craft station, and a diving board competition. This event is perfect for creating positive Halloween memories with the whole family. Children 5 and under must have a supervising adult within arm's reach, while children ages 6-9 need an adult present (who can attend for free if not participating). Date: October 25, 2024Time: 5:00 PMLocatio…

In Salem, Oregon, Aunt Bee’s House is more than just a store—it's a beloved gathering place for those who enjoy the thrill of treasure hunting, finding unique vintage pieces, and supporting local entrepreneurs. Recently, the team at Aunt Bee’s hosted the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Greeters networking event at the Northern Lights Theatre Pub, showcasing the atmosphere and culture that make their store so special. Hosts and staff members Kira Hammond and Téa Cole began with a brief introduction, followed by a video presentation that featured the store’s owners, staff, and vendors, giving the audience a closer look at the people who make Aunt Bee’s House so special. How Aunt Bee's House Got Its Start The story of Aunt Bee’s House begins ne…

Just outside of West Salem, West Hills Vineyards offers a unique event space for weddings, family events, and community gatherings. At the heart of this picturesque venue is the Gulick family—Jim and Myrna Gulick, along with their daughters Jenny and Lisa—who purchased the historic property in 2020 and have carefully preserved its rich heritage while transforming it into a welcoming and versatile event space. Photo Credit: Hot Tea Media A Family with a Vision for Preservation When the Gulick family first laid eyes on the property, they knew they had found something special. With a long history dating back to the mid-1800s, the land had passed through generations, its roots deeply entwined with Salem’s early pioneers. "Our family purchased t…

Finding plant-based or vegetarian dining options can be a challenge. Luckily, in Salem, Oregon, there are several local restaurants that offer some great choices! Here's a quick glance at some of Salem's top vegan and vegetarian-friendly spots. 1. Infinity Room Infinity Room is an event space with a fully vegan kitchen in downtown Salem. Their event calendar is always full with comedy shows, live music, and more! Enjoy delicious dishes made with chickpeas, marinated tofu, Beyond Meat, and other plant-based proteins. If you're craving their food but would rather stay in, you can order for takeout Wednesday - Saturday. Visit their website View this post on Instagram A post shared by Infinity Room (@infinityroomsalem) 2. Venti’s Café Venti’s C…

This weekend in Salem is packed with fantastic local events! Check out what's happening October 18-20th. The Great Junk Hunt - Salem It's the weekend a lot of you have been waiting for—the Great Junk Hunt is back at the Oregon State Fairgrounds! Shop over 85,000 sq. ft. of vintage items, home décor, and more from some of the best vendors in the Pacific Northwest. Also enjoy live music, cocktails, and one-of-a-kind finds. Date: October 18-19, 2024Time: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Friday), 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Saturday)Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: $10-$20, $5 parking, kids 12 and under FREE (view ticket information) Learn More Spooky Yoga at CreativiTee Celebrate Halloween with a fun Spooky Yoga class at Cr…

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 and cocon…

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 adults, $8.00…

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 the age of eight by…

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 empowering women through style. They are known for their…