Need plans this summer? There are plenty of things to do near Salem, Oregon!

1. Deepwood Garden Tours

Docents will lead guided tours of the historic gardens at Deepwood Museum & Gardens, in Salem, on the first Friday of every month from June to September. A $5 admission is required for attendees over the age of 16.



2. First Wednesday

Businesses throughout downtown Salem will host special events on the first Wednesday of each month from June to September, including live music, street vendors and family-friendly activities.



3. Gaiety Hollow Open Gardens

Designed by Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver, the gardens at Gaiety Hollow, in Salem, will be open for visitors on June 9, 13 and 16, July 7, 11 and 21, Aug. 8, 11 and 25 and Sept. 8 and 22. Admission is $5 for attendees over the age of 16.



4. George Rodriguez: Embellished Narratives

See the work of Seattle artist George Rodriguez at Salem’s Hallie Ford Museum of Art from June 8 to Aug. 25. He creates figurative ceramic sculptures that explore his Chicano heritage, political issues surrounding the United States and Mexico border and the shared humanity of people around the world.



5. John R. Stahl: Oregon Artist at Hallie Ford Museum of Art

The Hallie Ford Museum of Art, in Salem, is showcasing the work of John R. Stahl, including paintings, assemblages and works drawn on paper. The exhibition will run through Aug. 11.

6. Movies in the Garden

Every Thursday from July 11-Aug. 29, the Oregon Garden will host Movies in the Garden, showing films such as “Crazy Rich Asians,” “Coco” and “Angels in the Outfield.” Concessions are available for purchase. Admission is required.



7. On Your Feet Friday

Walk or run through downtown Salem at “On Your Feet Friday” on the second Friday of each month, May through September. Along the way, stop at eight checkpoints to discover local businesses and attractions.



8. Polk County Bounty Market

​The Polk County Bounty Market returns to Dallas, Oregon, on June 11, July 9, Aug. 13 and Sept. 10. The market will feature local growers, producers and artisans from Polk County.



9. Salem Movies in the Park

Watch family-friendly movies on a 24-foot screen at Riverfront Park, in downtown Salem, on July 13, 20 and 27 and Aug. 3 and 24. The showings are free to attend, but donations are accepted.



10. Salem Downtown Markets

​The Salem Saturday Market, Hospital Market, Wednesday Farmers Market and Thursday West Salem Farmers Market will be held every week this summer. The Saturday Market is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 865 Marion Street. The Hospital Market is held every Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Salem Hospital. The Wednesday Farmers Market is 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 530 Chemeketa Street. The Thursday West Salem Farmers Market is 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 1260 Edgewater Street. The markets feature local produce, flowers, food, crafts and more.



11. Sounds of Summer Sundays at Airlie Winery

Airlie Winery, in Monmouth, Oregon, will host live music on most Sunday nights from June through August. Tickets are required.



12. Summer Uncorked Concert Series

Join Eola Hills’ Legacy Estate Vineyard, in Salem, for an exciting lineup of summer evening concerts. Performances include Dirty Revival on June 8, Dance Hall Days on July 6 and The Get Ahead on Aug. 10. Tickets are required.



13. Timbers U23

Cheer on the Timbers U23, an amateur soccer team affiliated with the Portland Timbers, at McCulloch Stadium, in Salem, on select dates in June and July. The team consists of standout players from collegiate and youth programs throughout the country. Tickets are required.



14. Volcanoes Baseball

The Volcanoes, a Class A Short-Season affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, play at home on select days from June to August. The Volcanoes Stadium is located just off Interstate 5 in Keizer, Oregon.

June

15. 68th Annual Silverton Hills Strawberry Festival

Enjoy crafts, music, food and a beer garden at the Silverton Hills Strawberry Festival on June 16 at Coolidge McClaine Park in Silverton, Oregon. Admission is required.



16. Adelman Peony Gardens

Adelman Peony Gardens, in Salem, is open daily through mid-June. The garden has more than 25 acres of peonies and a two-acre display garden.



17. Berries, Brews & BBQs

Head to French Prairie Gardens, in Saint Paul, Oregon, on June 1-2, 8-9 and 15-16 for a day of strawberry picking, tractor wagon rides and live music. Admission is required.



18. Brooks Gardens

Brooks Gardens, in Brooks, Oregon, will celebrate bloom season every day until June 15. Explore three acres of iris gardens or wander into the peony fields, where more than 100 varieties of peonies bloom.



19. Capital FC Half Marathon

The Capital FC Half Marathon is June 2 in Salem. There will be live music and free beer at the finish line. Registration is required.



20. Cherry City VegFest

The first annual Cherry City VegFest is June 8 at Pringle Park & Community Hall in Salem. There will be vegan food, eco-friendly exhibitors, cooking demos and children’s activities. Admission is free.



21. Father’s Day Complimentary Tasting

Fathers can receive complimentary wine tastings on June 16 at Cubanisimo Vineyards in Salem.



22. Legacy Estate Vineyard Run

Participate in one of six race events happening at Eola Hills’ Legacy Estate on June 2. From a grueling 5K and 10K loop to a race straight to the top of the vineyard hill and a half-mile kids run, there are courses for a variety of skill sets. Before and after the events, there will be camping, yoga, food, music and wine tasting.



23. Make Music Day

Dozens of musicians, both amateur and professional, will hold free concerts across Salem on June 21 for Make Music Day. You’ll find performances throughout downtown Salem, including at the Oregon State Capitol, Riverfront Park and outside of restaurants and businesses. The event is free to attend.

24. Oregon State Parks Day

Celebrate State Parks Day with free camping, free parking and special events at local Oregon State Parks on June 1. Events will take place at Silver Falls State Park and Champoeg State Heritage Area.



25. Oregon Waterfowl Festival

The Oregon Waterfowl Festival is June 21-23 at the Polk County Fairgrounds in Rickreall, Oregon. There will be waterfowl, elk and turkey calling contests, seminars and camping. Tickets are required.



26. Petal Pedal

Choose from four cycling route options that highlight the Willamette Valley’s beautiful scenery at the Petal Pedal, in Silverton, on June 22. Registration includes breakfast, a gourmet dinner with unlimited wine and beer and admission to the Oregon Garden.



27. Pollinator Festival

Dancing Oaks Nursery and Gardens, in Monmouth, will host educational activities for kids and adults, food and music at the Pollinator Festival on June 22. There will be pollinator-friendly plants for sale and local experts available to answer questions.



28. Roll The Dice Car Show

Get a close-up look at hot rods, rat rods and custom vehicles at the Roll the Dice Car Show on June 15 at Spirit Mountain Casino in Grand Ronde, Oregon. There will also be live entertainment, food and drink and exhibitors.



29. Silverton Home Garden Tour

Explore a variety of private gardens in “Oregon’s Garden City” on June 8 in Silverton. Tickets are required.



30. Summer Block Party

Gilbert House Children’s Museum, in Salem, will offer free admission on June 24. Outside there will be activity booths and information on local summer resources to keep children engaged through the summer.



31. Taste of Woodburn

The Taste of Woodburn is June 1-2 in downtown Woodburn, Oregon. Experience local cuisine from several restaurants, enjoy live entertainment and view a classic car show.



32. Turning Earth Farms Music Fest

Camp at Turning Earth Farms, in Dallas, while enjoying the farm’s third annual music festival on June 14-16. The suggested donation for camping and music festivities is $30-$60 for the entire weekend.



33. WillaMutt Strut

The Willamette Humane Society is hosting its annual WillaMutt Strut on June 2 at Salem’s Riverfront Park. The 5k run and walk will benefit shelter cats and dogs.



34. Wine Country Cruise-In & Father’s Day Celebration

Enjoy an afternoon filled with wine tasting, classic cars and live music at Willamette Valley Vineyards, in Turner, Oregon, on June 16. Tickets are required.



35. World Beat Festival

Immerse yourself in the music, dance, food and traditions of more than 70 nations and cultures at the World Beat Festival. The festival, held in Salem’s Riverfront Park on June 28-30, will feature performances, vendors and children's activities.

July

36. 2019 USA Softball 18A Fast Pitch Western National

Cheer for your favorite team at the USA Softball 18A Fast Pitch Western National on July 24-28 at Salem’s Wallace Marine Park.



37. 70th Annual Salem Art Fair & Festival

Just blocks from downtown Salem, you’ll find more than 200 artists, live performances, craft beer and wine and art activities at the Salem Art Fair & Festival. The 70th annual festival will be held at Bush’s Pasture Park on July 19-21.



38. Canterbury Renaissance Faire

Enjoy the splendor of more simple times at the Canterbury Renaissance Faire, in Silverton, on July 20-21 and 27-28. The event will have four stages of continuous entertainment with singers, dancers, jugglers and period demonstrations, including blacksmithing, archery and sword fighting. Tickets are required.



39. Cherryfest NW

"Eat, drink and be cherry” at Cherryfest NW on July 4-7 at Salem’s Riverfront Park. This event features more than 80 microbrews and ciders, a variety of food vendors, Fourth of July fireworks and activities for the entire family. The festival will offer free admission on July 4 and July 7.



40. Civil War Re-Enactment and Living History

See the battles, tour the camps and visit with re-enactors on July 4-7 at Powerland Heritage Park in Brooks. Children under the age of 12 receive free admission.

41. Dwight Yoakam at the Elsinore Theatre

Country artist Dwight Yoakam will take the stage at Salem’s Elsinore Theatre on July 14. Tickets are required.



42. Fireworks at the Oregon Garden

Catch a stunning fireworks display at The Oregon Garden, in Silverton, on July 3. There will also be live music, children’s activities, food vendors and a barbeque dinner. Admission is free after 5 p.m.



43. Independence Days

Held annually around the Fourth of July, Independence Days is full of fun and activities for the entire family. From July 3-6, the town of Independence, Oregon, will have a carnival, live entertainment, artisans, fireworks and a parade.



44. Jefferson Mint Festival & Frog Jump

The Jefferson Mint Festival & Frog Jump returns to Jefferson, Oregon, on July 19-20.



45. “Jest a Second!”

Pentacle Theatre, in Salem, is performing “Jest a Second!” on select dates from July 26 to Aug. 17. The show is suitable for teenagers and adult audiences. Tickets are required.



46. July 4th Festival

Head to Main Street Park, in Monmouth, on July 4 for a community art show, classic car show, parade and live entertainment. A mini marathon and tennis tournament will accompany the festival.



47. Marion County Fair

This traditional county fair features a carnival, rodeo, 4H/FFA student exhibits, vendors and big-name entertainment. The fair is July 11-14 at the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem. Tickets are required.



48. Race to Save the Harvest

Participate in a 3K or 5K walk/run on July 13 at Salem’s Riverfront Park. There will also be kid-friendly activities and information around the themes of reducing hunger, eating healthy and not wasting food.



49. Saint Benedict Festival

The annual St. Benedict Festival at Mount Angel Abbey, in Mt. Angel, Oregon, will be held July 13. As the monks share their stories about Benedictine life, there will be yard games, Benedictine Brewery beers, Willamette Valley wines and a picnic lunch to enjoy. The event is for ages 21 and older.



50. Salem Stars and Stripes Run

Enjoy a beautiful 5K run through Salem’s Riverfront Park and Wallace Marine Park on July 4. There will also be a 5K Stars & Stripes Challenge, a run with three military-style challenges. Registration is required.



51. Salem Summer Brewfest (Rock The Cask Bar 2019)

Santiam Brewing is hosting Salem Summer Brewfest on July 13 with guest breweries and live music.



52. Santiam Canyon Stampede

The Santiam Canyon Stampede, in Sublimity, Oregon, returns July 19-20. Along with barrel racing, bull riding and roping, there will be children’s activities before the main event and an after party for ages 21 and older.



53. Santiam SummerFest

Attend an old-fashioned street fair in Stayton, Oregon, on July 27. There will be children’s activities, local brews and wine and an art show.



54. St. Paul Rodeo

The 84th annual St. Paul Rodeo, in St. Paul, Oregon, runs from July 2-6. There will be rodeo performances, live entertainment, fireworks and a carnival throughout the week. Tickets are required.



55. The Fireworks Over the Lake

After an exciting day of boating and hiking, don’t miss the breathtaking fireworks display over Detroit Lake on July 6. The show will begin at approximately 10 p.m. The event is free.



56. The Great Oregon Steam Up

The Great Oregon Steam-Up is July 27-28 and Aug. 3-4 at Powerland Heritage Park in Brooks. This annual event will have trolley rides, a flea market, tractor pulls and machinery demos. Tickets are required, with children ages 12 and under receiving free admission.



57. The Secret History of Underground Salem

Learn the history of Salem’s underground tunnels, Chinese opium dens and the great gunfight with local historian John Ritter on July 12 at Deepwood Museum & Gardens. Tickets are required.



58. Water Lantern Festival

The Water Lantern Festival will take place on July 27 at Salem’s Cascades Gateway City Park. Your ticket includes a floating lantern and access to the festival. The lanterns are 100% eco-friendly and will be cleaned up after the event.

August

59. Aumsville Corn Festival

The 2019 Aumsville Corn Festival is Aug. 17 at Porter-Boone Park. There will be a corn eating contest, live entertainment and a parade.



60. Aurora Colony Days

Experience Old Aurora’s famous German hospitality Aug. 9-10 with a family-friendly beer garden, food and music at Aurora Colony Days. There will be a parade, 5k run/walk, car show and market. The Old Aurora Colony Museum will also offer free admission Aug. 10.



61. Bike MS: Willamette Valley

The annual Bike MS: Willamette Valley ride is Aug. 3-4 in Monmouth. The routes range from 21 to 105 miles. Registration is required. The minimum age to ride is 12.



62. Englewood Forest Festival

The Englewood Forest Festival will highlight local artists, musicians and businesses at Englewood Park, in Salem, on Aug. 10. The event is free to attend.



63. Fiesta Mexicana

A family-friendly celebration of Hispanic culture, Woodburn’s annual Fiesta Mexicana is August 2-4. Held at Legion Park, there will be delicious food, entertainment, classic cars, a parade and soccer tournament.



64. Fish Fest

Fish Fest, Oregon’s largest Christian music festival, returns to Salem’s Riverfront Park on August 17. Tickets are required.



65. Frey’s Dahlias

Visit Frey’s Dahlias, in Turner, for bloom season starting in mid-August. The field is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.



66. Grand Ronde Contest Powwow

The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde’s Annual Contest Powwow is Aug. 16-18 at the Uyxat Powwow Grounds in Grand Ronde.



67. Great Salem Race

Make your way through Salem by solving clues and completing challenges at the Great Salem Race on Aug. 17. This family-friendly event will cover approximately three to five miles on foot and will have an after-party with food and music.



68. Great Willamette River Raft Race

Take your kayak, canoe, raft or inner tube to the Great Willamette River Raft Race on Aug. 3. Starting at Riverview Park, in Independence, participants will paddle and float 11.5 miles to Wallace Marine Park in Salem. Entry fees are required.



69. Hoopla

Hoopla, the second largest three-on-three street basketball event in the country, is Aug. 3-4 in Salem. Put together a team to compete or be a spectator at the annual dunk competition. Registration is required.



70. Homer Davenport Community Festival

The annual Homer Davenport Community Festival, named after the famous cartoonist, is Aug. 2-4 in Silverton. The festival will host a wide range of family-friendly activities, including an arts and crafts fair, tennis tournament and cartoon contest.



71. Jeff Foxworthy Live at the Elsinore Theatre

Comedian Jeff Foxworthy will take the stage at Salem’s Elsinore Theatre on Aug. 31. Tickets are required.



72. Molly Mo’s Summer Antique Faire

Find antique, vintage, repurposed and handcrafted goods at Molly Mo’s Summer Antique Faire on Aug. 9-10 at Union Hill Grange in Sublimity. Located just off Highway 214, there will also be down-home cooking, live entertainment and a beer and wine tent.



73. Multicultural Day at the Capitol

Celebrate Oregon’s diverse cultural heritage at the Oregon State Capitol on Aug. 10.



74. Oregon State Fair

The Oregon State Fair is Aug. 23–Sept. 2 in Salem. The fair will host big-name entertainment, dozens of competitions, livestock, carnival rides and so much more. Tickets are required.



75. Peach of a Century Ride

The Salem Bicycle Club’s annual Peach of a Century Bicycle Ride is Aug. 25. Starting and ending at Chemeketa Community College, in Salem, the ride has a 66-mile route, 76-mile route and 100-mile route.



76. Polk County Fair

The Polk County Fair is Aug. 8-10 in Rickreall. This classic county fair will have musicians, a rodeo, livestock and children’s activities.



77. Run for the Oaks

Left Coast Estate, in Rickreall, is hosting its third annual Run for the Oaks on Aug. 3. The 5K trail walk/run and the 10K trail run takes participants through the winery's beautiful estate vineyards and old-growth oak savannas. All proceeds will support the winery's Oak Savanna Restoration Project. Celebrate after the race with award-winning wines.



78. Silverton Fine Arts Festival

The Silverton Fine Arts Festival is Aug. 17-18 at the historic Coolidge McClaine Park in the heart of Silverton. The festival celebrates local and regional artists.



79. Warbirds over the West

Experience Salem’s annual aircraft gathering and living history event on Aug. 10-11 at McNary Field. There will be something for everyone to enjoy, including vintage and military aircraft, WWII military vehicles and museum and restoration hangar tours. Tickets are required.



80. Zimfest: Zimbabwean Music Festival

Celebrating Zimbabwean music and culture, Zimfest will take place Aug. 8-11 at Western Oregon University in Monmouth.