The days are growing longer and the weather is warming up, and there are plenty of great local events going on in and around our city. Let's dive into a few of the highlights. Spring Book Sale at Keizer Community Library The Keizer Community Library invites everyone to explore a wide selection of used books at their Spring Book Sale. Each purchase will help support the library. Prices: Paperbacks: $0.50 Hardbacks: $1.00 There will also be a "Bag of Books for $5" sale starting at 2:30 PM on Saturday, May 18th. Both cash and debit/credit cards will be accepted. Date: May 17 - 18, 2024Time:  Friday 9 AM - 5 PM | Saturday 9 AM - 4 PMLocation: Keizer Civic Center // 930 Chemawa Road NE, Keizer, OR 97303Cost: FREE to attend Learn more 2024 Bloom…

When it comes to decorating your home, choosing the right furniture can transform your space. In Salem, Oregon, we have a wealth of local furniture stores that offer high-quality products that can meet every taste and budget. Here's a look at some of the best local places to shop for furniture and home furnishings in Salem. Sid's Home Furnishings Sid's Home Furnishings, established in 1948, has evolved from their modest beginnings to a remarkable five-story showroom downtown that caters to all home furnishing needs and styles. With a philosophy of offering quality furniture with friendly service, Sid's showroom is open 7 days a week, and they provide free local delivery. Sid's Home Furnishings is also proud to offer an extensive collection…

It's time again for another weekend round-up of local events in Salem! From comedy shows and punk markets to outdoor adventures and local fundraisers, there's a little bit of everything going on this weekend. Turner Night Market - Mother's Day Edition Take a short drive to Turner for the launch of their monthly night market, happening every second Friday! Enjoy a selection of locally sourced and carefully curated handmade items. Explore offerings such as western-inspired items, crafted goods, home decor, soy candles, and fresh flowers and plants. There will also be wine tasting, food trucks, and a mobile espresso and dessert bar. Date: May 10, 2024Time:  4:00 PM - 9:00 PMLocation: 5325 Denver St SE, Turner, Oregon 97392Cost: FREE Learn…

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life without venturing too far from home? Salem, Oregon—located in the heart of the Willamette Valley—is uniquely positioned within an hour or two's drive from a variety of wonderful day trip destinations. Whether you're in the mood for a hike in the mountains, a stroll through charming towns, or a taste of Oregon's famous cheeses and wines, there's something nearby to suit nearly every taste and interest. Let's explore some of the top day trips within a two hours' drive from Salem. 1. The Oregon Coast After just about an hour drive to the west, you'll find yourself at the Oregon coast and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors to the coast can enjoy public beach access, fresh seafood, and attractions l…

Happy May! As the city continues to bloom into the colors of spring, the community calendar is also filled with exciting activities and gatherings. Here are a few local events happening around Salem this weekend. Marion County Master Gardener Plant Sale Mark your calendars for the Marion County Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale! Explore an extensive selection of over 10,000 plants, including perennials, native species, vegetables, herbs, trees, shrubs, and more. Date: May 3 - 4, 2024Time:  Friday 10 AM – 7 PM | Saturday 9 AM – 4 PMLocation: Oregon State Fairgrounds, Columbia Hall, Red Gate Entrance // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: $2.50 for parking; FREE admission Learn more Spring Book Sale - Friends of Salem Public Library Discove…

The search for the perfect floral arrangement or gift can lead to the many wonderful local florists of Salem, Oregon. Each florist offers their unique perspective and designs, along with exceptional service. With graduations and occasions such as Mother's Day coming up, here's a closer look at some of the best local florists in town. Olson's Fine Flowers For nearly 100 years, Olson's Fine Flowers has been a staple in Salem, known for their classic European-style arrangements and dependable service. Whether you're looking for a traditional bouquet or something uniquely tailored, Olson's has a rich history of satisfying customers with fresh, beautifully arranged blossoms. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kenneth Haseltine (@olsons…

Welcome to this weekend's exciting lineup of community events in Salem, Oregon! Gather your friends and family, and get ready to explore the variety of local activities that promise to make your weekend enjoyable and memorable. 2024 Spring Plant Sale Kick off your spring gardening at the Mission Street Parks Conservancy's Spring Fundraiser Plant Sale, with all proceeds going towards projects in Bush Park! Explore a selection of goods from a variety of vendors, including native plants, deer-resistant perennials, vegetable starts, succulents, herbs, and more. Come by the Bush’s Pasture Park Soapbox Derby Track for this exciting event. Date: April 26 - 27, 2024Time:  Friday 10 AM - 6 PM | Saturday 9 AM - 3 PMLocation: Bush's Pasture Park Soapb…

Get ready for another fun-filled weekend in Salem, Oregon! Our city is buzzing with a variety of events that are ready to entertain and inspire. Here are a few great ways to shake up your weekend. Trivia Night at Ankeny Vineyard Ankeny Vineyard is excited to host an early return of their popular Trivia Night, due to last month's extensive waitlist. If you missed out on the March event, this is a perfect opportunity to join in on the fun! Invite your friends for a delightful evening of trivia, where you can test your knowledge while enjoying a glass of wine and savory wood-fired pizza to keep your minds sharp. Tables for this event tend to fill up quickly, and walk-ins can be difficult to accommodate—so be sure to reserve your table ASAP. Da…

We recently had the chance to catch up with Teresa Lulay at the Konditorei, which is just across the street from her State Farm Agency office located on Commercial St. in Salem. Teresa's path to becoming an insurance agent was not one she had planned. Originally from the Midwest, her life took a sudden turn when she lost her first husband, leaving her a single mother in need of a stable job. "I was a stay at home mom and had to have a job. And State Farm was the largest employer," Teresa recounts. Her journey with State Farm began in Bloomington, Illinois, but it was her move to Salem that marked the start of a lifelong commitment to serving the local community with care and expertise. Teresa's dedication to her clients sets her apart in Sa…

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 everything that comes…

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 & Justin's journey to es…

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 parking. Date…

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 options with 1…

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 Loft. “Board games…

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 creativity, quickly beca…

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: FREE Learn more…

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 passion for pla…

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 hunt for Easter eggs at the Fo…

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-owned theme park fill…

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," Matt recalls…

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 Stars of The Voice: Jacquie…

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 Consider your c…