Here’s a look at what’s happening in Salem this March…

March 3

First Tuesday Music & Poetry Open Mic — Musicians, bands, poets…performers of all varieties are invited to sign up and share their talents. Hosted by Matador Hamilton and Danny Shaw of Giantess. 7 to 10 p.m. March 3 in Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. No admission, all ages. Sign-ups open with doors at 6:30. 

March 4

Speaker Series: Women’s History — Celebrate Women’s History Month with Kimberly Jensen, professor of History and Gender Studies, as she examines the powerful role of women in shaping democratic change — from voting activism and the fight for women’s suffrage to grassroots organizing against Ku Klux Klan-inspired legislation in the early 1920s. 6 p.m. March 4 at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE. $12. Click here for tickets.

March 5

Delgani Quartet presents It Must Be — How do composers grapple with the end of life? Beethoven’s final string quartet asks, “Must it be?” and answers with a resounding, “It must be!” In contrast, Britten’s String Quartet No. 3 (1975), composed shortly before his death, leaves more questions than answers. Haydn’s unfinished final quartet opens the program. 7 p.m. March 5 in Cone Chapel (Waller Hall) at Willamette University. Click here for tickets.

Shafty: Portland’s Tribute to Phish — Shafty channels the spirit of the jam with deep improvisation, funky grooves, and that anything-can-happen magic that keeps the vibe alive. 8 p.m. Thursday, March 5, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theater. Click here for tickets.

Heather Keizur Quartet: FAVORITES — Raised in Canada and now based in the Pacific Northwest, Heather sings in both French and English, blending her love of American jazz standards and authentic French chansons. Whether caressing a ballad or leaning into a playful swing tune, Heather is known for her passionate, deeply felt presentations that draw listeners in. At Christo’s, Heather presents Favorites — songs from Henri Salvador, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Tony Bennett — an evening of timeless melodies, romance, and classic elegance. Joining Heather and Steve are Tim Gilson on bass and Todd Strait on drums. 7 p.m. March 5 at Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE. Click here for tickets.

March 6

First Friday of the month means it’s time for the Art Walk in downtown Salem, where you can connect with artists and their work.

She’s Speaking Live returns to the stage with an unforgettable night of powerhouse performances, uplifting stories, and unstoppable musical talent. This special showcase brings together some of the Northwest’s most compelling female and gender-expansive artists—uniting their voices in celebration of creativity, community, and the transformative power of song. Featuring Crystal Lariza, Ashleigh Flynn, Jenny Conlee, Kristen Grainger, Beth Wood, Marilyn Keller, Bre Gregg, and very special guest Mary Flower, each brings their own dynamic style and perspective. These remarkable artists will be backed by the phenomenal house band The Riveters — Nancy Luca, Carmen Paradise, and Blair Coppage — delivering a rich, vibrant musical foundation that elevates every performance. Expect heartfelt originals, genre-spanning musicianship, and stories that resonate long after the final note. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering these artists for the first time, She’s Speaking Live is a celebration of voices that deserve to be heard — loud, proud, and together. Be part of a night that amplifies connection, empowerment, and the magic of live music. 7:30 p.m. March 6 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

Confluence: Willamette Valley LGBT Chorus presents Rooted & Rising — This concert centers on themes of resilience, growth, and shared humanity while celebrating both the roots that ground us and the collective strength that helps us rise through a mix of familiar favorites from musicals, movies, and traditional choral literature, thoughtfully curated to inspire hope, unity, and connection across generations and experiences. 7:30 p.m. March 6 at First United Methodist Church – MICAH Building (2nd Floor), 680 State St. Click here for tickets.

March 7

Salem Saturday Market returns for its 2026 season on March 7. Shop local produce, handmade goods, artisan crafts, and more, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday, March through October at 865 Marion St NE. Learn more here.

Salem Bike Vision is hosting a Group Ride, Saturday, March 7, at Minto-Brown Park. Meet at 11 a.m. Ride begins at 11:15 a.m. Click here for more info.

Chemeketa Concerts presents James Howard, who will bring an electrifying night of blues-rock brilliance, with virtuosic guitar, soulful vocals, and otherworldly sound. A San Francisco Bay Area native with more than 40 years on stage, James Howard delivers an electrifying live show that blends virtuoso guitar, inspirational vocals, and fearless songwriting. Drawing inspiration from legends like Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B. King, Jeff Beck, and Pat Travers, Howard fuses traditional blues with psychedelic roots rock—seasoned with touches of Latin and jazz—to create a sound that’s uniquely his own. 7 p.m. March 7 at Chemeketa Auditorium, building 6 at Chemeketa Community College. Click here for tickets.

2026 Poetry Out Loud State Contest — Poetry Out Loud is a recitation contest for high school students, organized in Oregon by the Oregon Arts Commission in collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation. Participants memorize and present poems, practicing public performance skills while exploring the complexity of poetry. The 12 Oregon high school students competing this year are: Alida Shi Lyons, Cleveland High School (Portland); Ariana Morris, Redmond High School (Redmond); Bena Rodecap, Grant High School (Portland); Drishti Singh, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego); Emma Keen, Oregon School for the Deaf (Salem); Gabriel Hall, St. Stephen’s Academy (Beaverton); Josiah Gaither, St. Stephen’s Academy (Beaverton); Kaydence Pope, South Medford High School (Medford); Molly Wheeler, South Medford High School (Medford); Patrick Igloria, Trinity Academy (Portland); Rain Obiesie, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego); and Samantha Faulkner, Trinity Academy (Portland). Oregon’s state champion will advance to the Poetry Out Loud National Finals, April 27-29 in Washington, D.C. In addition to performances by the students, the event will feature a presentation by Oregon Poet Laureate (2020-2024) Anis Mojgani. 1 to 4 p.m. March 7 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre.

Dmitri Matheny Group featuring Holly Pyle — Dmitry Matheny and his all-star band join forces with Holly Pyle for another West Coast tour. Flugelhornist Dmitri Matheny has been lauded as “one of the most emotionally expressive improvisers of his generation” (International Review of Music). An honors graduate of Berklee College of Music, Dmitri Matheny vaulted onto the jazz scene in the 1990s as the protégé of jazz legend Art Farmer. Celebrated for her “soulfully graceful, liquid-like voice” (Phoenix New Times), the classically trained Los Angeles vocalist Holly Pyle tours and performs with leading jazz and Americana groups, and appears regularly as a solo a cappella act using electronic looping to build masterful sonic creations. 7 p.m. March 7 at Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE. Click here for tickets.

Jon Heder returns to Salem for a sold-out show with Napoleon Dynamite LIVE! 20th Anniversary Celebration, 7:30 p.m. March 7 at Elsinore Theatre.

March 8

Knot Today, Fascism! An Angry Knit-in Solidarity Protest — Gather in solidarity with the DC Angry Knit-in to unite women, crafters, and allies in a joyful, creative act of political repair to say Knot Today, Fascism! This nationwide craft-based protest is turning fiber arts into feminist resistance. Hundreds of crafters, artists, and activists will converge on the National Mall and across the nation to knit, crochet, stitch, and frog the fabric of democracy — unraveling the knots of patriarchy and authoritarianism to remake something better. Oregon fiber artists and fiber-curious are invited to join: knit, crochet, stitch, weave, hook, macrame, and more! Bring your supplies, a chair, warm clothing, and your anger! 12 to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at Oregon State Capitol (State Street side). The group will be accepting donations of non-perishable food for Mutual Aid food pantries.

Roller Derby Matinee — The Cherry City Renegades take on the CDG Supernovas Big Bang from California in a family-friendly competition. 1 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for tickets.

Fetes des Femmes: A musical celebration of International Women’s Month — In its fifth annual tribute to International Women’s Day, Willamette brings together an extraordinary array of performances from around the Globe and through the decades, all in recognition of countless contributions women have made to the world of music. Join us in celebrating the timeless voices and talents that have paved the way for centuries of female musicians and artists. 2 p.m. Sunday, March 8 in Hudson Hall, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center. Click here for tickets. 

Salem Pops will play a concert featuring violinist Yvonne Hsueh. 3 p.m. Sunday, March 8 at East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave NE. Tickets: $20; $10 for students; free for children age 6 and younger. Click here for tickets.

Trey Kennedy: The Relatable Tour — Hi, this is Trey! I’m supposed to tell you all my accomplishments in this bio, but there’s NO way anyone would read that. I just hope you come to my show and bring your friends and family; this is my favorite show I’ve written yet. You can check out my most recent special, “GROW UP” on Hulu or my YouTube channel. I promise to give you a good time, and in return I just ask for your thoughts and prayers – I’m bringing my wife and 2 kids under 2 on the tour bus. See y’all there! 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 8 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.

March 9

Toast: The Best of Bread does everything possible to keep the legacy of Bread alive. With a surprising fidelity rarely heard from a live tribute band, their sound is often described as “spot on” to the original recordings. Toast will take you on a journey back in time, engaging a spectrum of emotions, from the tender moments that tug on the heartstrings to the upbeat classics that compel you to jump out of your seat and dance. 7 p.m. March 9 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.

March 10

Ballroom Blitz Trivia Night — Hosted by Ronan Baker, this 21-and-older, recurring trivia night takes place at 6 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays in Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Free, but each team member must make a $10 minimum purchase of food or beverage. 

March 11

The Black Jacket Symphony Presents: Pink Floyd’s “The Wall” — The Black Jacket Symphony recreates Pink Floyd’s iconic album The Wall live in its entirety—note for note, sound for sound—plus a full set of Pink Floyd’s greatest hits. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets. 

Young Dubliners: The Hot Toddy Tour — Known for their fiery blend of traditional Irish melodies and modern rock grit, the Young Dubs deliver a powerhouse live show packed with driving rhythms, anthemic choruses, and undeniable spirit. Opening the night are local favorites Possibly Irish, bringing their signature mix of traditional Celtic tunes, rich harmonies, and joyful stage presence that always gets the crowd clapping along. 8 p.m. March 11, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. All ages welcome. Click here for tickets.

March 12

Salem Talks Science explores the Geologic History of the Pacific Northwest with Chemeketa Community College professor Autumn Christensen. This event is free and open to all ages with a first-come, first-served policy. It fills up, so get there early to order food and save your spot. 6:30 p.m. March 12 at Venti’s Cafe. 

An Evening With Jimmy Wayne — The Salem Clinic Medical Foundation proudly presents an inspiring evening with award-winning country artist and advocate, Jimmy Wayne. Drawing from his personal journey through hardship and homelessness, he shares a powerful message of resilience, hope, and purpose. His work has brought national attention to youth in foster care, particularly those aging out of the system without support. This special community event blends storytelling and music to create an unforgettable and meaningful experience. 7 p.m. March 12 at Elsinore Theatre. Note: This is a free, ticketed event. Seating is general admission. Click here for tickets.

The Gothard Sisters — Experience an evening of enchanting music with The Gothard Sisters, a trio of multi-instrumentalists, composers, and performers blending Celtic, folk, world, and classical influences. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Greta, Willow, and Solana bring their music to life with violin, guitar, mandolin, bodhran, djembe, whistle, and soaring vocal harmonies for a mesmerizing celebration of storytelling, tradition, and artistry. 7:30 p.m. March 12, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

The Kemtone Quartet — Bandleader & saxophonist Randy Kem is joined by an all star band featuring bassist Tim Gilson, pianist Jof Lee, and drummer Mike Snyder. 7 pm. March 12 at Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE. Click here for tickets.

March 13 

Jake and the Hill People with Katrina Elizabeth — The lyrics, harmonies, and melodies of Jake Nacrelli and Simon Sharipoff are brought to life by the driving rhythm section of Tyson Oliver on the bass and Solomon Quijano on the drums. With the new addition of Woody Davidson on the pedal steel guitar, this band has all the ingredients to transform any venue into a 1970’s Honky Tonk and bring back the true meaning of country music. Opening the show is Katrina Elizabeth, blending diverse musical influences to craft a sound that’s both fresh and familiar. 7:30 p.m. March 13, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.

Soul R&B Yoga — Join Shirley Brown for a musically soulful and joyful 75 min yoga/mindful movement practice. Practice is orchestrated with rhythmic and soulful tunes to get you moving and maybe even singing. Together, we will celebrate the joy of Soul and R&B music as we flow. If you love R&B / Soul music, don’t miss these Friday nights. 6 p.m. Friday, March 13 at Resonance Yoga Collective Studio, 129 Commercial St NE. Click here for tickets.

Immerse yourself in Celtic culture at the Second Friday Céilí, featuring live music by Preston Howard-Wilde, Bob Soper & Elizabeth Nicholson, and dances called by Sam Keator. No partner or experience needed. With a couple of simple steps (forwards, backwards, and sideways), you can dance any dance. Friday, March 13 at the VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE. Doors open at 7 p.m. with a short lesson at 7:15 p.m. followed by live music and called dances at 8 p.m. Cost is $10 per person.

March 14

Dress in green and join the Ceili of the Valley Society’s St. Patrick’s Walk-About in downtown Salem on March 14. Led by Willamette Valley Pipes and Drums, we gather in front of the Riverfront Carousel at 11:30 and begin walking around the park and into the downtown at noon. The walk lasts about an hour. The walkabout ends back at the Carousel for a photo. Everyone is welcome!

Truffle Hunt & Paired Lunch — Spend the morning with Assistant Winemaker Will and his dog, Maeva, for an authentic truffle hunt through the Oregon woodlands. After the hunt, return to Bryn Mawr and settle in the Private Tasting Room for a decadent 4-course wine and food pairing, using some of the truffles found on your journey. Will has beautifully paired each dish with a selection of Bryn Mawr wines, making for an unforgettable culinary experience. 9:30 a.m. March 14 at Bryn Mawr Vineyards. This experience is limited to 10 guests. Click here for tickets. 

An Evening with Fran Lebowitz — In a cultural landscape filled with endless pundits and talking heads, Fran Lebowitz stands out as one of our most insightful social commentators. Her essays and interviews offer her acerbic views on current events and the media – as well as pet peeves, including tourists, baggage-claim areas, after-shave lotion, adults who roller skate, children who speak French, or anyone who is unduly tan. The New York Times Book Review calls Lebowitz an “important humorist in the classic tradition.” Purveyor of urban cool, Lebowitz is a cultural satirist whom many call the heir to Dorothy Parker. 7 p.m. March 14, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

F This Year Already: A Stand-up Comedy Show — Over 2026 already? So are these comedians. Come get vindicated with F This Year Already: Outrage in the Form of Comedy Warranted and Unwarranted! featuring Tina Hogstrom, Dash Thompson, Lakyn Johnson, Rick Quaresma, Joe Smalley, and host Armando Santoyo delivering A+ comedy all about why 2026 already gets a big old F. For ages 21 and older. 7 p.m. Saturday, March 14 in Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

Hyprov: Yes It’s Real Tour — Duo Colin Mochrie and Asad Mecci combine the art forms of hypnosis and improv for a one-of-a-kind comedy experience. The evening begins with Mecci welcoming 20 volunteers on stage to be hypnotized. The most receptive to hypnosis then join Mochrie to improvise the rest of the show, while hypnotized. In the hands of two experts and solely crafted from the volunteers’ and audiences’ uninhibited, unconscious minds, each show is an entirely original and completely unforgettable theatrical experience. 7:30 p.m. March 14 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets. 

March 14-15

The Breasts of Tiresias — Gender norms pop like balloons in The Breasts of Tiresias, Poulenc and Apollinaire’s bawdy surrealist romp. Frustrated with the life of a housewife, Tiresias sheds her breasts and becomes the male General Tirésias. As she leads a new life fighting distant wars on foreign battlefields, her stay-at-home husband discovers a way to make babies on his own — but not just one: 40,049 of them. This delightfully sugar-coated pill coats the sublime in the ridiculous. Directed by Hannah Penn. 7:30 p.m. March 14 and 2 p.m. March 15 in Smith Auditorium. Click here for tickets.

March 15

Heritage Talk — Brian Waldo Johnson will talk about 1863 Salem Scandal: When White Elites Defied Custom to Attend a Black Wedding. African Americans Richard Bogle and America Waldo were married in Salem on January 1, 1863—the same day the Emancipation Proclamation took effect. The wedding quickly became notorious across the West Coast due to the unprecedented attendance of prominent members of White society at a Black wedding. This presentation will explore the backgrounds of those in attendance, the circumstances that made the event so extraordinary, and the hostile reaction from much of the press, which viewed the wedding as a bold assertion of equality. This talk is capped at 30 guests, so please register to hold your spot. Registration closes 4 p.m. Friday, March 13. No walk-ups permitted. The recommended ticket price is $20. This series offers a deeper look into the rich history of the Bush House Museum. 1:30 p.m. Sunday, March 15 at Bush House Museum. Click here for tickets.

The Elsinore Theatre Silent Film Series presents The Lost World, a 1925 American silent fantasy giant monster adventure film, directed by Harry O. Hoyt and written by Marion Fairfax, adapted from Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1912 novel of the same name. The film features live organ accompaniment by Rick Parks on the Mighty Wurlitzer. 2 p.m. March 15 at Elsinore Theatre

Blessing Chimanga is an internationally celebrated Zimbabwean musician renowned for his extraordinary talent as a marimba player, singer, songwriter, and percussionist. As a cultural ambassador for Zimbabwe, he has captivated audiences across Asia, Europe, North and South America, and Africa. 5 p.m. March 15, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

March 17

St. Patty’s Day Pop-Up — To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Chef Jon is whipping up a delectable pot of lamb stew alongside his signature soda bread! Enjoy à la carte or with a suggested pairing. March 17 at Bryn Mawr Vineyards. Click here to reserve your spot.

March 18

Chemeketa Concerts presents Strings of Memory — Embark on a powerful musical journey that spans continents, cultures, and centuries. Strings of Memory weaves together the passionate voices of Mexico and the Arab world in a program that explores how composers express national identity, tradition, and deep human emotion through classical music. Featuring acclaimed performers Melissa Terrall on piano and Christina Ebersohl-Van Scyoc on viola, the evening highlights José Pablo Moncayo’s emotionally charged Viola Sonata and Dia Succari’s colorful, rhythm-driven 5 Syrian Dances. Two additional solo works, one rooted in Mexican tradition and one inspired by Arab heritage, offer an intimate, personal glimpse into the soul of each culture. Blending the familiar with the unexpected, this concert celebrates the beauty of musical dialogue across borders, inviting listeners to hear classical music through a vibrant, global leXicha Nortens. From fiery melodies to lyrical reflections, Strings of Memory promises an evening that is both moving and unforgettable. Experience the stories, rhythms, and emotions that connect us all. 7 p.m. March 18 in the Building 6 Auditorium at Chemeketa Community College. Click here for tickets.

March 19

Glitterfox — Formed by longtime creative partners Solange Igoa and Andrea Walker, Portland’s Glitterfox has built its career the analog way: a van, a map, and unforgettable shows stitched across towns like constellations. Their rise has been defined by raw connection and fearless self-expression, with music that fuses garage rock grit, new wave shimmer, southern Americana soul, and a dancefloor pulse — all tangled with heart and heat until what emerges is unmistakably, inimitably Glitterfox. Now joined by Eric Stalker and Blaine Heinonen, Glitterfox is more than a band — they’re chosen family, held together by sound and the invisible threads that music always knows how to weave. Whether launching Portland’s annual Glitterfest as a wedding reception or channeling the messy middle of life into something unforgettable, Glitterfox’s gift is their transparency, their defiance, and their freedom — sung loud. Opening for Glitterfox will be Fox And Bones, an energetic offbeat folksters with a retro-tinged, soul-stirring, modern-vintage bent. 8 p.m. Thursday, March 19 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theater. Click here for tickets.

March 20

Xicha Brewing hosts Brindar: Food + Beer Pairing, a unique dining experience featuring a carefully curated 4-course dinner inspired by Argentina, 7 p.m. March 20 at Xicha Norte, 2195 Hyacinth St NE #162. Click here for tickets.

The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra — The most popular and sought after big band in the world today for both concert and swing dance engagements. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time. The present Glenn Miller Orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring worldwide ever since. 7:30 p.m. March 20 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.

Enjoy a long, strange trip with Call Down Thunder & Caught Dead Handed performing psychedelic jam rock classics from The Grateful Dead. 8 p.m. March 20, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

Willie Waldman & Friends — Willie Waldman is a legendary trumpet player whose name you’ll find in the liner notes of great artists such as Snoop Dogg, Perry Farrell, Wu Tang, Banyan, Tupac Shakur, and more. Willie has amassed an all-star cast of musicians, including Norwood Fisher of Fishbone on bass, Tony Austin from Santana/Kamasi Washington’s band on drums, local saxophone superstar Sean McLean, and guitarist Cameron Morgan from Banyan and 19 Foot Trio for a unique night of all improvised music. 9 p.m. March 20, in Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

Pentacle Theatre presents Something Rotten — Welcome to the Renaissance! Desperate to outshine Shakespeare, playwright brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom consult a soothsayer, who predicts the next big thing in theater: musicals. The result? A hilariously misguided production called Omelette: The Musical. Packed with show-stopping numbers, mistaken identities, and a dash of Elizabethan absurdity, Something Rotten! is a side-splitting love letter to musical theater. 7:30 p.m. March 20-21, 25-28, April 1-4, 8-11,  and 2 p.m. March 22, 29, and April 4-5, at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW. Click here for tickets.

Oregon Symphony presents ​​Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony — Travel to Scotland without a plane ticket. There’s nothing like hiking across moors and encountering castle ruins to ignite the creative process—as Mendelssohn experienced it on a tour of Scotland. Holyrood Castle (where Mary Queen of Scots was crowned) inspired the mysterious mood of the Third Symphony’s opening. But the mists ultimately lift in the sunny, lively finale. Plus, Conrad Tao dazzles in Mozart’s 21st Piano Concerto, with its slow movement once described by biographer Maynard Solomon as “an entire movement of unrelieved, time-stopping beauty…for something just short of eternity.” 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 20 in Smith Auditorium at Willamette University. Click here for tickets. 

March 20-22

Yard, Garden & Home Show — This annual show boasts hundreds of new and innovative products and services for your home and garden. See the latest in outdoor living, gardening trends, design ideas, tools, as well as the latest in home improvement. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 21–22, in the Jackman Long building at Oregon State Fairgrounds, ​2330 17th St NE. Free admission

March 21

Cherry Blossom Day at the Capitol — Celebrate Spring, the blossoming cherry trees, and the impact of the Japanese culture on our state with music, family-friendly activities, and more inside the Capitol building this year at this free, public event. This year’s program includes a Kimono Fashion Show, the Bon Dance, performances by Monmouth Taiko and SamaZama Duo, a martial arts demonstration by Yoichi Kozuma, and an Ikebana demonstration by Nana Goto-Bellerud, plus a Japanese Tea Ceremony performed by Waiki Urasenke. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 21, at the Oregon State Capitol. Click here for more info.

Celtic Light Orchestra: A St. Patrick’s Day Party — This multi-media production promises to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family with rousing Irish jigs and reels, dazzling LED lights, Irish dance, soaring aerial dance, and more. 8 p.m. March 21, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

The Gordon Lee Quintet ft. John Nastos — The great Gordon Lee returns with his phenomenal quartet featuring some of Portland’s finest players; alto saxophonist John Nastos, trombonist James Powers, Xylyn Hathaway & drummer Todd Strait. A high-energy band playing all original music! 7 p.m. March 21 at Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE. Click here for tickets.

March 21-22

​​The Cherry City Classic features an invitational bike show, tattoo expo, arena cross racing, live music, vendors, car show, and more, March 21-22 at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE. Click here for more info.

March 22

Small Producer Sunday featuring Burton Bittman, the vision of winemaker Anneka Miller. After years of honing her craft under the mentorship of Oregon icon Jason Lett and in the cellars of Burgundy, Anneka returned to her family’s vineyard in Dundee to produce wines of grace, elegance, and distinct character. We invite you to taste her wines and learn her story. 12 to 5 p.m. March 22 at Bryn Mawr Vineyard. Small Producer Sunday happens once a month.

March 24

Ballroom Blitz Trivia Night — Hosted by Ronan Baker, this 21-and-older, recurring trivia night takes place at 6 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays in Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Free, but each team member must make a $10 minimum purchase of food or beverage. 

March 25

Chemeketa Concerts presents True North, an American Roots duo whose music is as intimate as it is unforgettable. With passionate harmonies, hand-built instruments, and memorable songs, Kristen Grainger and Dan Wetzel create a sound that moves straight from the stage to the heart. True North’s performances are marked by Dan’s refined musicianship and Kristen’s emotionally rich voice—an undeniable combination that has captivated audiences across the country. This is a rare opportunity to experience two master storytellers at the height of their craft—authentic, heartfelt, and deeply human. 7 p.m. March 25 at in the Building 6 Auditorium at Chemeketa Community College. Click here for tickets.

March 26

Jack Radsliff Quartet ft. Alan Jones — Jack Radsliff is on the short list of jazz guitarists in the Pacific Northwest. As a bandleader, his trio has become a fixture at clubs throughout the region. 7 p.m. March 26 at Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE. Click here for tickets.

March 27

Celebrate the release of Junkyard Princess with author Robyn Saunders Wilson, who will be in conversation with Jessica Amos, 5 p.m. March 27 at The Book Bin, 450 Court St NE.

Rene Vaca — After realizing he wanted to pursue comedy for a living, Rene Vaca dropped out of college and has not looked back since. Pursuing his dream in stand-up comedy, he won the 16th annual StandUp NBC competition. René’s influence extends beyond the stage, with a robust social media following of over 2 million and millions of views across platforms. His ability to connect with fans both online and in person reflects his universal appeal and infectious charisma. 7:30 p.m. March 27 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.

Laurie Kilmartin is stand up comedian and an Emmy-nominated, WGA award-winning comedy writer. She was a staff writer for all 11 years of CONAN on TBS, and has performed standup on CONAN, Late Late Show w/ James Corden, and Comedy Central. She was a Top 10 finalist on season 9 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing, and has been a guest on Marc Maron’s WTF 3 times. She is the author of Dead People Suck, a comedic memoir about grief, and Shitty Mom, a NY Times bestselling comedy about parenting. Her special “45 Jokes About My Dead Dad” was named among Vulture ‘s Top Ten Comedy Specials of 2016. In 2022, she was a guest in the “Comedy” episode of Hillary Clinton’s 2022 Apple TV series “Gutsy.” 8 p.m. March 27, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets. 

The Imperfect Murder Society: An Improvised Murder Mystery — There’s been a murder, but do you have what it takes to solve it? The Imperfect Murder Society is an improvised murder-mystery show that uses your suggestions to create and solve a brand-new mystery in one night. Give our performers ideas for surprise reveals, the names of characters who might be suspects in our investigation, and even the genre of murder. Clever improvisers Owen Lyon-Smith and Nicole Nodarse play lead detectives aiming to help bring the killer to justice in their own imperfect way. If you find yourself dressed to kill, then come have a ball with the Imperfect Murder Society. Note: The Imperfect Murder Society encourages guests to dress as fancy as they would like for the show. Come dressed to the nines or covered in blood. We won’t tell! 8 p.m. March 27, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

March 28

Russ Taff & Steve Taylor — Multiple Grammy and Dove Award-winners Russ Taff and Steve Taylor will appear in one electrifying night together on the Almost Farewell Tour. Taff will be both supported and backed on all dates by his longtime friend and collaborator, and his Some Band. 7:30 p.m. March 28 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.

Parabola: A Tribute to Tool — Straight out of PDX, Parabola delivers an intense tribute to Tool with precision and fire. Crushing riffs, hypnotic vocals, and spiraling energy collide for a live experience that feels every bit as powerful as the real thing. 8 p.m. March 28, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets.

Never Sunny w/Bazooka Sharkz + Friends — 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Mar 28 in Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Click here for tickets.

March 29

GOLDEN: A K-Pop Kids Party! is a family-friendly dance party featuring remixes inspired by familiar soundtracks, K-Pop songs, remixes, and iconic pop anthems from the movies. Costumes, dancing, and shining bright are encouraged. 4 to 6 p.m. March 29, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for tickets. 

March 30

Yoga + Wine — Wrap up the month with an evening wine-down featuring a 60-minute indoor practice, followed by post-class sips with fellow yogis. Suggested donation of $5-$10 per yogi for practice. The tasting room will be open from 5-8 pm on class days, serving wine by the glass, beer, cider and non-alcoholic options, along with truffles from Truffle Shuffle. 6 p.m. March 30 at Chemeketa Cellars, 215 Doaks Ferry Road NW. Click here for tickets.

Weekly Recurring…

Mondays

Weekly Drop-In Improv Comedy Class — Whether you’re a casual fan or seasoned performer, this class welcomes improvisers of all experience levels. Ages 15+ recommended. 7:30 p.m. Mondays, in Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. $5 at the door. 

Wednesdays

Bricked Up Comedy: A Weekly Comedy Open Mic — Take in a night of laughs at this weekly open mic. All ages allowed until 10, but material will not necessarily be clean. Want to test out new material? Sign up to participate. Sets are 5 minutes. Details here. 8 p.m. Wednesdays in the Brick Room at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. No cover, but a two item minimum for audience members and comics.

Thursdays

Salem Poetry Project presents a different featured reader each week, followed by the Infamous Open Mic, 7 p.m. Thursdays at the Bush Barn Art Center. 

Saturdays

Salem Saturday Market returns for its 2026 season on March 7. Shop local produce, handmade goods, artisan crafts and more, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday, March through October at 865 Marion St NE. Learn more here.

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Author: Carlee Wright

Carlee Wright is a community instigator with a grand love for Salem and notably fashionable shoes (Hello, John Fluevog!) who turns waste into wearable art in her "spare" time.