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…

Get ready for another fun weekend in Salem, Oregon! There are lots of local events happening, from live music and workshops to thrilling motorcycle races. It's a great chance for everyone in Salem to try something new or enjoy something they already love. Let's see what's going on! Vanessa Dawn at Infinity Room Catch Vanessa Dawn's unique comedy, a blend of relaxed wit and clever humor, as she performs in Salem. Her journey from Tulsa to stages across the country, including notable festivals and competitions, showcases her approachable comedy style. The show starts at 9:30 PM with doors opening at 9 PM. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door for this 21+ event. Enjoy Infinity Room's full kitchen and bar menu throughout th…

Salem, Oregon is getting ready for another weekend filled with exciting events, from Valentine's Day activities to Latin dance nightlife (and don't think we forgot the Super Bowl—read our guide to Salem's watch party events here). No matter what your plans are this weekend, let's make some good memories. Beethoven's Fifth Symphony (Salem) Experience the dramatic journey of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony—performed by the Oregon Symphony—on February 9th at Willamette University. Known for its narrative of triumph over adversity, this masterpiece is complemented by contemporary works from Carlos Simon and Timo Andres, who draw inspiration from Beethoven's influence. Andres' "Blind Bannister" notably reinterprets the elegance of Be…

Super Bowl LVIII is set to capture the nation's attention this Sunday (February 11), featuring a showdown between the San Francisco 49ers and the reigning Super Bowl Champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. For football fans looking to soak in all of the action surrounded by community, local brews, and delicious food, Salem, Oregon boasts a roster of vibrant local sports bars and breweries that are perfect for game day. Whether you've got a team in the mix, you're a die-hard NFL fan, or you're just excited for Usher's halftime show, here are the top local places in Salem to catch the big game. Kick off is at 3:30 PM Pacific Time! Half Court Sports Bar & Taproom Known for their lively atmosphere and 45 high-definition screens (with surr…

Are you fascinated by modern day blacksmithing and how custom knives and blades are made? We were too, so we took the opportunity to sit down with Josh Navarrete, a master bladesmith and the proud owner of NK Forge & Metalworks in Salem. He has carved a niche for himself in Salem and around the world with his exceptional skills and a heart as sharp and enduring as the blades he forges. Josh's journey to Salem began in 1999, a pivotal move that saw him trading the busy streets and life of California for the peaceful, community-driven atmosphere of Salem. "I got tired of it. And I just packed my stuff and moved up here," Josh recalls about his decision to leave California. The slower pace of life and the close-knit community in Salem …

Salem, Oregon - What does it take to engage the interest of today's youth in thinking about possible career paths when they grow up and graduate from high school? Meet Amy Caulder, the Senior Manager responsible for Career Connected Learning programs at the Willamette Education Service District (WESD). Amy Caulder, Senior Manager Career Connected Learning She and her team are on a mission to bridge the gap between education and industry, helping students unlock a world of possibilities. Amy Caulder's journey is one of purpose and dedication. Before joining WESD, she spent 17 years as a special education teacher. However, her passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom, encompassing the realm of "World of Work," transition…

We had to chance to sit down with Trevor Barre recently at Broadway Coffeehouse and learn more about him personally as well as his career in real estate. As a real estate agent with John L. Scott Real Estate, Trevor's mission transcends the mere buying and selling of homes. It's about fostering connections, understanding individual needs, and turning the daunting into the achievable. Trevor's passion shines brightest when working with first-time homebuyers. "I've had a few longtime friends of mine actually buy a house from me, and I genuinely enjoyed helping them," Trevor shares. This sentiment underscores his commitment to not just transact but to transform lives through one of the most significant milestones a person can experienc…

As the first weekend of February ushers in an early hint of spring in Salem, Oregon, the city is waking up and stretching with a fresh slate of local events to explore. With glimpses of the sun and new spring growth across town, our community is bustling with activities to shake off the winter chill. Here are just a few events going on this weekend in the Salem area! Multi-Dealer Salem Spring RV Show Get ready for the Salem Spring RV Show at the Oregon State Fairgrounds! This is your chance to explore a wide range of RVs and take advantage of exclusive deals. Be among the first 3000 to grab a $4 off admission coupon online at SalemSpringRVShow.com. Don't miss this opportunity to gear up for RV season and start planning your next …

We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Jesse Kindler, a sales consultant, office manager, and commercial specialist at Budget Blinds of the Mid-Willamette Valley. As a local business, they not only transform homes and offices with its array of window treatments, but they also weave community spirit and support into their daily business mindset. They stand out as a local enterprise where personal touch, innovation, and community support are as fundamental as their exceptional window coverings. Being married to the owner's daughter, Priscilla Glidewell, Jesse is deeply rooted in the family business. He describes his role as "doing what I can to help the family company," a sentiment that reflects his commitment and pe…

Welcome back, Salem breakfast adventurers! After the amazing response to our first breakfast guide, it's clear that our love for a good morning meal is shared by many. Salem's breakfast scene is just too vast and varied to be covered in one go. So, here's part two of our guide to the best local breakfast spots in Salem, Oregon. Get ready to explore more great places that offer the perfect start to your day! Court Street Dairy Lunch Step into the timeless charm of Court Street Dairy Lunch in downtown Salem. This local staple, known for its no-nonsense, traditional breakfasts, has been serving up classic American fare since the 1920s. The warm, friendly atmosphere and neighborly service makes it the perfect place to enjoy a comforting,…

Salem Free Clinics has been a beacon of hope in the local healthcare landscape since its inception in 2005. The mission statement found on their website states that Salem Free Clinics "exists to provide quality, compassionate healthcare at no cost to the uninsured in our community as an expression of Christ's love" (Salem Free Clinics). One might wonder, "How does Salem Free Clinics manage to keep the doors open without charging their patients?" Curious to find out more, we interviewed the clinic's Development Director, Maddie Leutwyler, whose primary role is overseeing all the fundraising efforts for the organization. Maddie presented the clinic's recipe for success as a combination of fundraising, donations, and the dedicatio…

Salem, Oregon is alive with a great lineup of local events to round out the first month of the year. Let's end January on a high note, celebrating the lively spirit of the Salem community with these can't-miss events! First Taste Oregon 2024 First Taste 2024 offers an exquisite experience with Oregon's finest wines, ciders, spirits, brews, and eats. Attendees can explore offerings from top winemakers, craft brewers, distillers, artists, and culinary experts. Whether you prefer wine, cider, craft beer, or spirits, there's something for everyone. Plus, discover unique finds from various artists and vendors. Enjoy a taste, a glass, and take home a bottle. Tickets are available now! Date: January 26 – 27, 2024Time:  Friday …

As the publishers of WhirLocal Salem, we have the privilege of bringing to light the inspiring stories of our community's people and businesses. Today, we're focusing on Dan Farrington, the Business Development Manager at BBSI in Salem, Oregon. His journey and contributions to our local business scene are not just impressive; they're a reflection of the vibrant spirit that drives our local communities. Dan's path to his current role at BBSI is as unique as it is inspiring. Born and raised in Newport, Oregon, Dan initially pursued education but soon found his calling in the business world. His journey led him to manage the growth of Rock and Rogers restaurants and later to found Sunrise Medical Consultants. Despite the challe…

We recently had a chance to sit down and interview Russ Hedge, a local marketing coach, author, and speaker, to explore the art of authentic connections. In an era where digital interactions often overshadow face-to-face engagements, we find ourselves more 'connected' than ever before. Yet, there's a growing yearning for genuine, personal connections, especially within our local community. Our conversation with Russ offered insightful perspectives on bridging this gap, fostering meaningful relationships, and revitalizing the essence of true community spirit in our digitally-driven world. Russ's philosophy is grounded in the belief that authenticity is the key to building lasting relationships. He argues that in a world incre…

As pet owners, there are many big box companies to choose from when it comes to shopping for our furry family members. But when it comes to high-quality products, unmatched customer service, and a personalized experience, local pet supply stores stand out from the crowd. In Salem, Oregon, there are several great local businesses that are ready to offer something unique for your pet's health and happiness. Salem Pet Supply Salem Pet Supply, a staple in the Salem community since 2003, is a trusted destination for pet owners seeking affordable and nutritious options for their dogs and cats. They have two convenient locations in North and South Salem, along with a Wilsonville location. With a focus on no-frills, high-value products, the…

There's a business in Salem, Oregon that's been adding color and life to homes and buildings for nearly two decades. Elvis's Painting, a Latino-owned local painting company, isn't just about brushes and ladders—it's a story of passion, community, and a commitment to excellence. As a proud member of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, The Homebuilders Association of Marion & Polk County, and the Professional Business Development Group Association, Elvis Alvarez is proud to be building his business in the Salem community. The Man Behind the Brush: Elvis Alvarez Elvis Alvarez, the heart and soul of Elvis's Painting, started his journey in 2004. With a love for meeting new people and a passion for transforming spaces, Elvis embark…

After last weekend's snowy weather kept many indoors, Salem is buzzing with excitement for this weekend's lineup of events. It's a perfect opportunity to shake off the cabin fever and enjoy what the community has to offer! "Brighton Beach Memoirs" by Pentacle Theatre Frosty weather may have forced the cancellation of opening weekend, but the show must go on! Pentacle Theatre proudly begins its 70th Season with a production of “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” directed by Jo Dodge. “Brighton Beach Memoirs is part one of Neil Simon’s autobiographical trilogy — a portrait of the writer as a young teen in 1937, living with his family in a crowded, lower-middle-class Brooklyn home. Eugene Jerome, standing in for the author, is the n…

Michelle's Ashley’s journey to becoming known as “The Cake Lady” behind Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes is a tale of resilience, talent discovery, and sweet success. Her story is proof that a fresh start can lead to delicious destinations. Starting Over In 2010, Michelle decided to begin a fresh start in Oregon following a difficult divorce. Despite knowing only two people in the area, she was drawn to the beauty of the Happy Valley area. So much so, that Michelle decided to move from Texas and make Happy Valley her new home. Shortly after her move, however, she "hardly saw those two people anymore, and ended up feeling truly alone." Michelle's journey improved when she met her future husband through online dating. Love…

Nothing warms the soul on a cold day like a steaming bowl of pho—Vietnamese noodle soup known for its rich, aromatic broth and hearty ingredients. The Salem, Oregon area is home to several fantastic spots where you can enjoy this delicious dish! Here's a basic guide to some of the best local restaurants offering heartwarming pho. Kim Huong Located on Silverton Rd NE, Kim Huong is all about authenticity. Their pho is both fragrant and flavorful, complemented by perfectly cooked rice noodles and fresh toppings. They also have a full menu of other Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kirstie Bingham …

Join Valor Mentoring's Bowling FUNdraiser! Have fun while raising money to help provide needed mentoring for youth in our community. Purchase a lane for 4 people to compete and raise money for mentoring. Comes with a pizza for your team and the chance to win some great prizes! Room for a few more teams! REGISTER TODAY! Date: Wed. January 24. 2024Time: 6 PM - 9 PMCost: $500 per team For more information and to register your team go to: valormentoring.com/knock-down-to-lift-up …

It's going to be a cold one in Salem this weekend! As we brace for uncharacteristically cold weather from an incoming winter storm, our community's warmth continues to shine through the local events that are planned. While we encourage everyone to get involved in the local happenings, your safety is the number one priority during this inclement weather. Please stay safe, stay home if necessary, and stay informed about event updates or cancellations from the event organizers. 2024 Mid-Valley Home Show The 46th Annual Mid-Valley Home Show, renowned as the oldest, largest, and most well-attended home show in the Mid-Willamette Valley, is set to make its return January 12-14, 2024. This event is the perfect opportunity for homeowner…

With its beginnings in the heart of Salem, Oregon, Mimi and Little Bean's Children's Boutique is a testament to the power of dreams and community support. Owned by Jen and her daughter, Mck, this charming boutique grew to become a beloved local establishment and is now an online store providing unique products and fostering strong relationships within the community. A Dream Realized Jen's journey to entrepreneurship is an inspiring one. Having spent nearly three decades in the affordable housing industry, she dedicated herself to her career, climbing the ranks from a compliance officer to overseeing the compliance department. But in 2020, a significant event shook her world. Her daughter, married to a Marine, gave birth to her gr…