Press Play Salem
Things to do in August

Things to do in August 2019

Here’s a look at what’s happening in August in Salem, Oregon.
Events are free and all-ages unless otherwise listed.

A scene from Jest A Second!

Through August 17

Embracing the long tradition of madcap character-in-drag farces, Pentacle Theatre’s presents a summer comedy. Jest a Second! is a rollicking farce by James Sherman and directed by Valerie Steele. Sarah and Bob, expecting their first child, are hosting a birthday party for Sarah’s mother. Sarah’s brother, Joel, arrives early to tell Sarah some news he’s put off telling anybody: He’s gay and has picked this evening to come out to his family. Realizing that no one is quite ready for Joel’s big reveal, Bob decides some deception is in order. The complications pile up in hilarious layers and build to a heartwarming conclusion. Suitability: This comedy is suitable for teenage and older audiences who can handle its adult themes.
When: Through Aug. 17
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW
Cost: $24 to $29
Tickets: Advance tickets are available at Pentacle’s ticket office at 145 Liberty St. NE or by calling 503-485-4300 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, or online anytime at pentacletheatre.org. Tickets are also available at the theater box office 45 minutes before each performance.
Info: 503-485-4300, pentacletheatre.org 

August 1

Cheap Date Night! August Edition is a clashing of the pairings: Piedmont (Italy) wines with Piedmont (Appalachia) food. The event includes a vegetarian 3-course meal featuring one starter, two mains dishes, one dessert, plus a bottle of wine. Call for reservations. The event will sell out.
When: 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1
Where: Epilogue Kitchen and Cocktails, 130 High St. SE
Cost: $60
Info: 503-581-1880

Night of 1,000 Stars: Teen Talent Showcase. Area middle and high school-aged youth offer an excellent night of entertainment in this annual talent showcase.
When: 6:30 p.m. Aug. 1
Where: Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library

Hey Dead Heads! Celebrate the 9th Annual Grateful Dead Meet-Up at the Movies featuring the previously unreleased complete June 17, 1991 concert from Giants Stadium. Mixed by Jeffrey Norman in surround sound with video from the multi-camera live edit, this will be the first time the Bruce Hornsby and Vince Welnick line-up has ever appeared on the big screen. The screening will also feature a reveal of the Grateful Dead’s 2019 boxed set, featuring the Dead’s legacy manager, archivist and producer David Lemieux.
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1
Where: Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway St NE
Cost: $12 advance; $15 day of show
Info: salemcinema.com 

August 2

Take a Deepwood Garden Tour with a Lord & Schryver Conservancy docent. Meet at the picnic tables at the north side of the parking lot.
When: 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 2 and Sept. 6
Where: Deepwood Museum & Garden, 1116 Mission St. SE
Cost: $5 over age 16
Info: lordschryver.org

various colors of blue ties and the word shalom from the Salem Peace Mosaic
Salem Peace Mosaic. Photo by Sandi Johnson

Guitar virtuoso Terry Robb will perform a benefit concert for Save the Salem Peace Mosaic. The event will also include a silent auction and guest appearance by Caesar the No Drama Llama. Save the Salem Peace Mosaic is a nonprofit organization formed to find a way to preserve the “River of Peace” mosaic currently on the façade of the Salem Family YMCA.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2
Where: Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. SE
Cost: $10
Info: savethesalempeacemosaic.org/events 

August 2-3 & 9-10

Miss Smith is proud to present Elliot Lathrop in his debut solo performance about sleeping….or not sleeping! “Where’s Mr Sandman?” features an eclectic mix of songs ranging from Great American Songbook to Florence and the Machine, as well as special guests Adam Luttrell and Deb Pierce. Presented in one act, performance coach Stephanie Lynne Smith directs this dream project from the piano. Intimate venue. Buy tickets in advance to secure your seat! Ample street parking. Accessible venue.
When: 8 p.m. August 2-3, 9-10
Where: 890 Saginaw St. S
Cost: $20 online in advance at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4279250

August 3

Riverfront Family Fest is a health and safety resource event featuring a range of child-friendly activities. See a helicopter landing. Check out a fire truck. Snack on tasty treats. Get your face painted. It provides a safe and fun place for families to spend time with each other while building new relationships with other community members.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3
Where: Riverfront Park, 200 Water St. NE
Info: familybuildingblocks.org 

Capitol Pride presents Salem Pride in the Park, Salem’s annual family-friendly LGBTQ festival that features activities, booths, entertainment, food carts, a beer garden and more. This year recognizes the 50th anniversary of Stonewall and includes a special performance by Poison Waters.
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3
Where: Amphitheatre at Riverfront Park, 200 Water St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: facebook.com/capitol.pride

Explore Earth … and Beyond: Activities for All Ages. Drop in to explore the universe around us, with free crafts, activities, and hands-on science. Floor 2 and Peace Plaza. Special presentations: 1-2 p.m.—A Tour and Guide to Salem’s Night Skies presented by Dr. Jed Rembold, Assistant Professor of Physics at Willamette University; 2-3 p.m. Night Photography Techniques presented by The Shutterbug.
When: 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 3
Where: Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library. Parking will be free for the day.

Salem Orchestra Music Academy Concert features student and professional musicians performing side by side.
When: 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3
Where: Salem First Church of the Nazarene, 1550 Market St. NE
Cost: $5
Info: salemorchestra.org 

Cash at the Grand is an interactive Johnny Cash tribute with “The Only Cash Band.”
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand, 187 High St. NE
Cost: $20 to $30
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com/event/4202654

August 3 and 24

Salem Movies in the Park continues Aug. 3 is “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” teenager Miles Morales who becomes the Spider-Man of his dimension and crosses paths with counterparts from other dimensions; and Aug. 24 is “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” a sci-fi adventure story about Han Solo, his future co-pilot Chewbacca and an encounter with Lando Calrissian years before joining the Rebellion. Feel free to pack a picnic, but leave the glass containers and alcohol at home.
When: Saturday evenings, Aug. 3 and 24. Movies begin at dusk.
Where: Riverfront Park, 200 Water St. NE
Cost: Free. Donations are accepted.
Info: salemmoviesinthepark.com

August 3 & 4

Hoopla 3×3 street basketball event features more than 1,000 teams, 4,000 participants, 1,000 volunteers and thousands of spectators.
When: Aug. 3 and 4
Where: Oregon State Capitol, Downtown Salem
Cost: Free to watch
Info: oregonhoopla.com 

Sk8Kings US National Championships – Slalom Skateboard Racing returns to Salem for the third year and this time it’s US Nationals. The event features two days of events with some of the world’s top racing talent competing for regional titles, cash and prizes. The park offers a perfect setting for spectators and a dedicated race track for head-to-head hybrid slalom, technical tight, fast giant slalom and a bonus speed trap event. Register to compete at http://bit.ly/USNationals2019.
When: Aug. 3 and 4
Where: Derby Hill at Bush’s Pasture Park, 890 Mission St SE
Cost: Free to watch.
Info: ncdsa.com 

The Great Oregon Steam-Up is a celebration of living history where you can see trains, trolleys, tractors and more from 14 heritage museums.
When: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 3 and 4
Where: Powerland Heritage Park, 3995 Brooklake Road NE
Cost: $15 day, $25 weekend. $10 day, $20 weekend age 13-18. Free for age 12 and younger.
Info: 503-393-2424, antiquepowerland.com  

August 4

Spend your Sunday afternoon by the river with Music on the Willamette features The Whiskey Darlings, Americana/folk trio. In addition to listening to live tunes, you can also play games, like Bocce ball and horseshoes. The venue features a covered patio with tables and chairs, but bringing your own lawn chairs is also a good idea as space can fill up. A full tasting menu is available from 12 to 1 p.m. on Sundays. Attendees can purchase wine by the glass or bottle, as well as soft drinks, beer and food. And if you want to make it an overnighter, camping is available, too.
When: Vineyard open 12 to 5 p.m. with music 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 4
Where: Arcane Cellars, 22350 Magness Road NW.
Cost: $5, free for club members.
Info: 503-868-7076, www.arcanecellars.com   

Salem Philharmonia Orchestra and Corvallis-based Willamette Valley Symphony musicians will join together with guest conductor Héctor Agüero to present a summer concert set of symphonic dances. The program includes a variety of dance-inspired music, from classical to conga.
When: 3 p.m. August 4
Where: Chemeketa Community College Auditorium, Bldg. 6, 6 E Campus Loop
Cost: $15 (Students 18+/Srs 65+); $18 (18-64); Free for age 17 and younger
Info: www.salemphil.org

August 6, 13, 20 & 27

Summer Art Tent for Kids. Join artist Nancy Kurz for this weekly art experience organized by the SAA Community Arts Education program, which aims to encourage participation in the arts for families. Each week is a new project. Aug. 6: Sculpey Clay; Aug. 13: Watercolor; Aug. 20: Charcoal or Pastels; Aug. 27: Let’s Paint Critters. Activities are best suited for children under 8, and parents/guardians must stay with their children for the duration of their visit.
When: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesdays in August
Where: Bush’s Pasture Park, 600 Mission St. SE
Info: salemart.org 

August 7

First Wednesday takes over downtown with an alley fair, live music, games, beer, food, local vendors and more.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7
Where: Downtown Salem
Info: facebook.com/salemsfirstwednesday 

Elsinore Theatre photo by Carlee Wright
Elsinore Theatre

August 7, 14, 21 and 28

Tour the Elsinore to get a behind-the-scenes peek of the theatre including an in-depth history of the theatre and the Mighty Wurlitzer – the largest theatre organ in the Pacific Northwest. Please RSVP by calling 503-375-3574.
When: 1 p.m. Wednesdays during August
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $5 at the door
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com 

Theatre 33 "The Harder Courage"
Theatre 33’s “The Harder Courage” in rehearsal

August 7-11

Theatre 33 wraps its “3 x 33” summer series with “The Harder Courage,” a new play by Leslie Slape. Based on true events in southwest Washington in 1891-92, the play tells the touching story of a friendship between a sheriff and a condemned prisoner, while exploring themes of family, vigilante justice, capital punishment, war, PTSD, overcoming our fears and the healing power of story.
When: 7 p.m. Aug. 7-10, and 2 p.m. Aug. 10-11
Where: M. Lee Pelton Theatre at Willamette University.
Cost: $10 suggested donation
Info: theatre33.org 

August 8

Studios at the Mill artist collective is hosting Open Studios where you can explore art created by Elizabeth Bauman, Dayna Collins, Mona Cook, Carol Green, Jim Hockenhull, Bonnie Hull, Leonard Kelly, Susan Napack, Ross Sutherland, James O’Shea and Jane Taliaferro. Featured artists Natalie Laswell and Mona Cook will share the gallery for “They Might Be Artists.” Learn more in Press Play Salem issue 8.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. August 8
Where: Willamette Heritage Center at 1313 Mill St. SE (second floor)
Info: facebook.com/artistsatthemissionmill

August 8, 11, 25

Explore nature with a Gaiety Hollow Garden Tours guided by a trained docent. Learn about the unique design principles of Lord and Schryver and experience the garden as they intended.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 8 and 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 11 and 25
Where: Lord & Schryver Conservancy, 545 Mission St. SE
Cost: $5 over age 16
Info: lordschryver.org

August 9

 

Ceili of the Valley Society brings a little bit o’ Ireland to Salem at its Second Friday Ceili, an Irish social dance featuring live Celtic music. No experience or partner needed and if you’re not a dancer, you can always just go for the tunes.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9  (recurring on the second Friday of every month)
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE
Cost: $10. $5 student. $30 family.
Info: ceiliofthevalley.org

 

Salem Main Street Association presents On Your Feet Friday!, a community series encouraging people to get active and have fun while exploring downtown Salem in a scavenger hunt-like walk/run followed by alley after-party featuring live music. There are different checkpoints each month for this recurring event.
When: 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9 (recurring the second Friday of month through September)
Where: Electric Alley, between Court St., Chemeketa St., Liberty St. and Commercial St.
Info: facebook.com/downtownsalemoregon

August 10

Second Saturday Storytime features Dog Days of Summer Storytime with Reader Jo. Kids can bring along their well-behaved doggy friends for stories such as The Detective Dog by Julia Donaldson. Illustrated by Sara Ogilvie; Wake Up, Color Pup by Taia Morley and The Great Gracie Chase: Stop That Dog! by Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Mark Teague.
When: 10:30 a.m. Aug. 10
Where: The Book Bin, 450 Court St. NE

Willamette Valley Genealogical Society WVGS hosts talks on the second Saturday of each month. August topic: Oregon Covered Bridges presented by Bill Leach. This event is free and open to the public.
When: 12 p.m. Aug. 10
Where: Anderson Room A at Salem Public Library

Celebrate Deepwood’s 125th Birthday! Enjoy the beauty of the grounds with games, children’s crafts, refreshments and acclaimed folk singer/puppeteer Red Yarn. There are two ticket times for this event in order to accommodate more people. Red Yarn will perform at 2 and 5 p.m. Advanced registration is required as attendance is limited.
When: 1 to 3 and 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10
Where: Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 1116 Mission St. SE
Info: 503-363-1825, historicdeepwoodestate.org

Our Shared Heritage: Multicultural Day at the Capitol. The Capitol celebrates the many diverse cultures that make up the rich heritage of Oregonians. Festivities include booths, music, dancing and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10
Where: Oregon State Capitol, 900 Court St. NE
Info: 503-986-1388, oregoncapitolfoundation.org  

Englewood Forest Festival is a free family-friendly celebration featuring art vendors, environmental education and activities galore, plus a diverse selection of music, dance and food. It’s held in Salem’s first park, which is a heavily wooded 7-acre site with more than 200 Douglas Fir and Oregon White Oak trees, a splash pool and playground.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10
Where: Englewood Park, 1260 19th St. NE
Info: englewoodforestfestival.org 

Get a view of valley and vine (and even a sunset, too) with the Summer Uncorked Concert Series featuring the retro-soul tunes of The Get Ahead. Bring your lawn chair or blanket to make the most of the festival-style seating. Food and drink will be available for purchase; no outside food and beverages are permitted.
When: 3 to 8 p.m. Aug. 10
Where: Legacy Estate Vineyard, 1600 Oak Grove Road NW
Cost: $25
Age: All ages
Info: 503-623-2405, eolahillswinery.com 

Family Art Day. Make art. Stop in at any time during the four-hour event. Guardians are asked to remain with their children for the duration of their visit.
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free. Donations accepted.
Info: salemart.org

August 10 & 11

Experience a slice of history at Warbirds Over the West, an annual fundraiser organized by the B-17 Alliance Foundation that aims to support the restoration of the “Lacey Lady,” a WWII B-17G Flying Fortress bomber aircraft under renovation at the Salem Airport. This family-friendly event features vintage aircraft and military vehicles, a swap meet, WWII living history encampment, museum and hangar tours, plus Lacey Lady meet-and-greet with autograph and photo opportunity.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11
Where: McNary Field, 2990 25th St. SE
Cost: $10-$15. $50 family of four. Free for age 5 and younger.
Info: facebook.com/WarbirdsOverTheWest

August 11

Caesar’s 5th Birthday Bash. Salem’s favorite no-drama-llama Caesar is celebrating his birthday with a party for all that includes stickers, comics, face painting, balloon animals, music and more…and as always, hugs and pics with Caesar are free! Want to give him a gift? He’s asking for donations of school supplies.
When: 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11
Where: Willamette Town Center, 831 Lancaster Dr NE
Info: facebook.com/events/2396846477201771

Catch Americana folk-rock band The Avett Brothers with special guest Lake Street Dive.
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11
Where: L. B. Day Amphitheatre
Cost: $35 to $85. $5 more on day of show
Info: theavettbrothers.com

August 13

Tuesday Gallery Talk — George Rodriguez: Embellished Narratives presented by Jonathan Bucci. The tour will commence in the Maribeth Collins Lobby.
When: 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13
Where: Hallie Ford Museum of Art, 700 State St.
Cost: $6, $4 for seniors and $3 for students 18 and older. Age 17 and younger are free. Free for all on Tuesdays.
Info: willamette.edu/arts/hfma, 503-370-6855 

five people holding instruments crouched down in front of large crowd of people with their hands in the air
Brazilian Celtic band Banda Taverna

August 14

Brazilian Celtic band Banda Taverna is stopping in Salem on its first US and Canada tour.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 14
Where: Sisters Irish Bistro, 189 Liberty St. NE
Info: facebook.com/bandataverna 

August 16

Pairings! A Celebration of Oregon showcases some of the notable flavors of our great state through the creations of Oregon’s premier chefs, winemakers, distillers, and brewmasters. The evening wraps with a performance by 11-piece show band 5 Guys Named Moe.
When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, August 16
Where: Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE
Cost: $50
Info & tickets: oregonstatefairfoundation.org

Author Talk: Caroline Kurtz with a Road Called Down on Both Sides: Growing up in Ethiopia and America. Coming of age in 1950s Ethiopia, American Caroline Kurtz returns as an adult with spouse and family, searching for “home.”
When: 7 p.m. Aug. 16
Where: The Book Bin, 450 Court St. NE

The Winery Comedy Tour. Nationally recognized comedians travel the country tasting local wine and making new fans in this comedy circuit. This comedy tour takes top comedians who you’ve seen on TV and sends them out on the road to perform at wineries throughout the country.
When: 8 p.m. Aug. 16
Where: Cubanisimo Vineyards, 1754 Best Road NW
Cost: $20. Limited tickets.
Info: cubanisimovineyards.com

August 17

The Great Salem Race is the ultimate downtown Salem Scavenger Hunt. It’s a family-friendly opportunity to experience Salem while solving clues and completing challenges. The race includes approximately 3 to 5 miles traveled by foot and wraps up with a party to celebrate. Age of child participants is up to parental discretion.
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St. SE
Cost: $80
Info & registration: greatsalemrace.com

Back in Salem for a 10th year, Christian music festival Fish Fest NW features performances by Matt Maher, Zach Williams, Mac Powell & The Family Reunion, We are Messengers, Mark Lee and more.
When: 2 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 17
Where: Riverfront Park, 101 Front St. NE
Cost: $29 or $15 for ages 6-12 general admission (bring a blanket or chair). Reserved seating $65 to $125.
Info & tickets: fishfestportland.com

August 18

Spend your Sunday afternoon by the river with Music on the Willamette features Paula Byrne Quartet. In addition to listening to live tunes, you can also play games, like Bocce ball and horseshoes. The venue features a covered patio with tables and chairs, but bringing your own lawn chairs is also a good idea as space can fill up. A full tasting menu is available from 12 to 1 p.m. on Sundays. Attendees can purchase wine by the glass or bottle, as well as soft drinks, beer and food. And if you want to make it an overnighter, camping is available, too.
When: Vineyard open 12 to 5 p.m. with music 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 18
Where: Arcane Cellars, 22350 Magness Road NW
Cost: $5, free for club members.
Info: 503-868-7076, www.arcanecellars.com   

August 19

Take in a screening of Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now: Final Cut, about a U.S. Army Intelligence officer who is sent on a bizarre river journey deep into the jungle to assassinate Colonel Kurtz, a renegade Green Beret who uses primitive tribesmen to wage his own war. Restored from the original negative, this film masterpiece is a surreal, hallucinatory tragedy about the horror of the Vietnam War.
When: 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19
Where: Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway St NE
Cost: $10 advance; $12 day of show
Info: salemcinema.com

August 20

Where’s Mister Sandman? Catch Elliot Lathrop in his debut solo performance about sleeping….or not sleeping! Where’s Mr Sandman? features an eclectic mix of songs ranging from Great American Songbook to Florence and the Machine, as well as special guests Adam Luttrell and Deb Pierce. Presented in one act, performance coach Stephanie Lynne Smith directs this dream project from the piano. Intimate venue. Buy tickets in advance to secure your seat. Ample street parking. Accessible venue.
When: 8 p.m. August 2-3, 9-10
Where: 890 Saginaw St. S

August 22-25

Enlightened Theatrics 2019 Youth Summer Camp presents Honk Jr! Keeping with their season theme of “A Celebration of Self-Acceptance,” join Ugly on a journey of self-discovery as he outwits a hungry cat and meets a whole flock of unique creatures, eventually realizing that maybe “different” is not such a bad thing to be.
When: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 22-24 and 2:30 p.m. Aug. 25
Where: Salem’s Historic Grant Theatre
Cost: TBA
Info: enlightenedtheatrics.org

August 23 & 24

Brooks Truck Show featuring Peterbilt. Explore Powerland Heritage Park and a variety of visiting trucks. Be there 9 p.m. Friday for the Night Glow truck light-up.
When: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, August 23 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, August 24
Where: Pacific NW Truck Museum, 3995 Brooklake Road NE
Cost: $ 10, children 12 and younger free
Info: pacificnwtruckmuseum.org 

August 23-September 2

From pig racing to a fire finale, the Oregon State Fair boasts something for all. This year’s concert line up includes: 

  • Friday, August 23: Dustin Lynch, country
  • Saturday, August 24: 3 Doors Down, rock
  • Monday, August 26: An Evening With REO Speedwagon, classic rock
  • Tuesday, August 27: Steve Miller Band / Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives, classic rock and classic country
  • Wednesday, August 28: Brett Young, country pop
  • Thursday, August 29: Newsboys United with special guest Adam Agee, Christian rock
  • Friday, August 30: The Commodores, Motown and R&B
  • Saturday, August 31: The Beach Boys, classic surf
  • Monday, Sept 2: Legends of Country Rock Firefall + Pure Prairie League + Poco

When: Friday, August 23 through Monday, September 2. See website for hours.
Where: Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE
Cost: Admission is $1-$6 in advance; $1-$8 at the gate. Carnival ride wristband: $37.50 in advance; $50 at the fair. $5 cash for parking.
Info: 503-947-3247, oregonstatefair.org 

August 24

Friends of Salem Public Library Fiction and Mystery Book Sale. More than 2,000 fiction and mystery books will be available in this one-day sale. Hardcovers are $1.50, paperbacks just 75 cents. Tables are refilled throughout the day. When: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Anderson Rooms A&B at Salem Public Library

Spend An Evening with Peter Hollens, Oregon-based a cappella singer, featuring his talented wife and Broadway singer Evynne Hollens. The Hollens’ will be performing songs from their Billboard top-charting albums and a variety of music ranging from Folk to Top ’40s, to Broadway and beyond.
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost:$18 to $35 general admission
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Another Fair Fight — Cherry City Roller Derby’s first (informal) bout in 2009 was an exhibition during the Oregon State Fair called “A Fair Fight.” A decade later, they are bringing together skaters from all teams for “Another Fair Fight.” Read more about the league in Press Play Salem issue 8
When: 4 p.m. Aug. 24
Where: The Mad House, 1335 Madison St. NE
Cost: $5
Tickets: Sold online and at Santiam Brewing, Keizer Mart, *Hit This! Derby Gear and *Kay’s World of Wigs. (*Cash only)
Info: cherrycityrollerderby.com

August 27

Tuesday Gallery Talks with Artist Carol Hausser — Tours will commence in the Maribeth Collins Lobby.
When: 12:30 p.m. Aug. 27 and Sept. 10
Where: Hallie Ford Museum of Art, 700 State St.
Cost: $6, $4 for seniors and $3 for students 18 and older. Age 17 and younger are free. Free for all on Tuesdays.
Info: willamette.edu/arts/hfma, 503-370-6855

August 30

Last Friday Poetry Group presents Terra Incognita: Oregon Poets Write for Ecological, Social, Political and Economic Justice. Featured Readers will include David Rutiezer, Dale Champlin, Vicky Falcon Vasquez, Jim Merrill, Rosalyn Kliot, Veronica Esagui, Marilyn Johnston, Lois Rosen, C. Steven Blue, and Diane Corson. Time permitting an open mic will follow this event so bring your poetry to read.
When: 7 p.m. Aug. 30
Where: The Book Bin, 450 Court St.NE

August 31

Carousel Cruise, hosted by Willamette Valley Street Rods, features vehicles of all makes, models and years, as well as numerous activities to make a day of the event.
When: Gate opens at 7 a.m. Aug. 31
Where: Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, 101 Front St. NE
Cost: Free. Show your car for $15 if paid by Aug. 20; $20 at the gate.
Info: wvsr.org 

Black and white photo of four men standing against a wall
Bottleneck Blues Band

Blues on the Willamette kicks off 3 days of music with Bottleneck Blues Band (Sunday features King Louie with LaRhonda Steele and on Monday hear Ty Curtis). In addition to listening to live tunes, you can also play games, like Bocce ball and horseshoes. The venue features a covered patio with tables and chairs, but bringing your own lawn chairs is also a good idea as space can fill up. A full tasting menu is available from 12 to 1 p.m. on Sundays. Attendees can purchase wine by the glass or bottle, as well as soft drinks, beer and food. And if you want to make it an overnighter, camping is available, too.
When: Vineyard open 12 to 5 p.m. with music 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 31 (Sept 1 and 2)
Where: Arcane Cellars, 22350 Magness Road NW
Cost: $5, free for club members.
Info: 503-868-7076, arcanecellars.com

Head and shoulders of comedian Jeff Foxworthy on blue background
Jeff Foxworthy

Jeff Foxworthy is one of the most respected and successful comedians in the country. He is the largest selling comedy-recording artist in history, a multiple Grammy Award-nominee, best selling author of more than 26 books and in 2014, was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31
Where: Elsinore Theatre
Cost: $59 to $125
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

And don’t forget these continuing events and activities…

Every Tuesday

Salem’s local Celtic cultural group, the Ceili of the Valley Society, continues to host dance classes every Tuesday…and the first one is free. It’s a great form of exercise, that’s fun, too! Not sure you can do it? If you can count to three and seven, and know your right from your left (most of the time), you’ll fit right in. When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE. Cost: $5. First one free. Infoceiliofthevalley.org

Every Thursday

Each week, the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the “Infamous Open Mic” – 3 poems or five minutes whichever is shortest.
When: 7 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Ike Box, 229 Cottage St. NE
Infofacebook.com/SalemPoetryProject

Every Friday

Check out Late Nites at the Farm for food and beer fresh from the Minto Island Growers Farm food cart plus live all vinyl DJ July 12 and 26.
When
: 5 t0 9 p.m. Fridays
Where: Minto Island Growers, 3394 Brown Island Rd S
Info: mintogrowers.com, 503-931-6840

Every Saturday

Salem Saturday Market continues every Saturday through October 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot at 865 Marion St NE. Info: 503-585-8264, www.salemsaturdaymarket.com

Art Exhibits

At Hallie Ford Museum of Art

John R. Stahl: Oregon Artist — John was a multi-talented artist, educator and environmental activist who graduated from the Museum Art School in Portland and who lived and worked near Tillamook on the Oregon Coast. Organized by professor emeritus and senior faculty curator Roger Hull, the exhibition will feature a range of Stahl’s artwork from the past 45 years, including paintings, assemblages, and works on paper drawn from the Hallie Ford Museum of Art’s permanent collection and several private collections.
When: Through August 11
Where: Hallie Ford Museum of Art, 700 State St.
Cost: $6, $4 for seniors and $3 for students 18 and older. Age 17 and younger are free. Free for all on Tuesdays.
Info: willamette.edu/arts/hfma, 503-370-6855

George Rodriguez: Embellished Narratives — Seattle artist George Rodriguez (American, born 1982) creates figurative ceramic sculptures that explore his Chicano heritage, political issues surrounding the US and Mexico border, and the shared humanity of people around the world.
When: Through August 25
Where
: Hallie Ford Museum of Art, 700 State St.
Cost: $6, $4 for seniors and $3 for students 18 and older. Age 17 and younger are free. Free for all on Tuesdays.
Info: willamette.edu/arts/hfma, 503-370-6855

Custom Made Imperatives: Watercolors by Carol Hausser — Carol Hausser is an immensely talented Salem watercolor painter and retired art instructor at Chemeketa Community College. Raised in Bozeman, Montana and educated at the University of Washington in Seattle, Hausser chose watercolor painting early on in her career and has since become a master of the medium. Organized by director John Olbrantz, the exhibition features a range of Hausser’s abstract watercolors from the past 35 years.
When: August 14 Through December 1
Where: Hallie Ford Museum of Art, 700 State St.
Cost: $6, $4 for seniors and $3 for students 18 and older. Age 17 and younger are free. Free for all on Tuesdays.
Info: willamette.edu/arts/hfma, 503-370-6855

At Salem Art Association

Salem Salem “100” — This non-juried art exhibition features both emerging and established artists in Salem and neighboring communities within a 75-mile radius of Salem. Coinciding with the Salem Art Association’s Centennial Year and the annual Salem Art Fair & Festival, Salem Salon is a high-exposure exhibition celebrating the talents of over 100 artists!

Tim Knight “Door Behind the Wall” — Tim Knight has been creating art and music since he was a child growing up in Salem. Using various mediums and materials he creates one of a kind work pulling inspiration from artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Claude Monet and Andy Warhol. His subject matter comes from life, love and loss as he paints what he sees and feels. “The pop culture of the 60’s was my favorite time as a teenager. I liked seeing the work of Peter Max and Andy Warhol everywhere.” 

Nancy Eng “Just Nature” — Nancy Eng is an award-winning artist and business owner living in Oregon. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Art from Oregon State University. Her work has been included in private and corporate collections, and publications. “My paintings start from photos, sketches and memories. Change is an influential aspect of my painting. Each piece alters from its original colors, composition and emotions, flowing through change and resulting in multiple layers to its final creation. Bit by bit, layer by layer, my paintings take on their own personal expressions.” 

Selections from the SAA Permanent Collection: Four Decades of Art Fair Posters by Salem Artists — 2019 marks the 70th anniversary of the Salem Art Fair & Festival and the 40th anniversary of the beloved Art Fair poster. Over the past four decades, artists working in Salem, and around Oregon, have shared their work on these high-quality, limited edition posters, signed by the artist. Enjoy a selection of Art Fair posters, by a variety of Salem artists, along with a large painting of the Pied Piper which may have been created for an early Art Fair.

When: Through August 24
Where
: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.
Info: 503-581‑2228 or visit salemart.org

At The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters

Seth Allen is intrigued with the powerful conflict between bold primary colors and a white canvas. As the layers grow, the colors mix for more variety and smaller, more focused brushstrokes. Faces have always interested him and are a consistent theme in his painting. He thanks you for supporting art in downtown Salem.
When: Through August 31
Where: The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters, 471 Court St. NE
Info: sethallen.org 

At Willamette Heritage Center

CSI: Salem is a historical look at fighting crime in the capital city. Explore how methods for solving crime has changed over time.
Where: Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. SE. Center open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday
Cost: $8. $7 senior, $5 student and $4 for ages 6 to 17.
Info: 503-585-7012,
willametteheritage.org

At Oregon School of Massage

Photography by Joel Zak. Joel was born and raised in Oregon. While on a family outing when he was 12, Joel was awed by the evening light that gave golden contours to a vast wheat field.  “I marveled how it accentuated the individual grains … changing a common field into something that expressed more than what it was.” Since then, Joel has played with that light to create images that express another way of seeing.
When: Through September
Where: Oregon School of Massage, 2111 Front St., Bldg. 3. The school is open 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays.
Info: 503-585-8912

At Elsinore Framing & Fine Art Gallery

How We Grow Our Food — Second annual invitational exhibit is a celebration of art and agriculture artwork with a mission. Opening Reception: 5 to 8 p.m. August 7
When: August 7 through 30
Where: Elsinore Framing & Fine Art Gallery,444 Ferry St. SE
Info: 503-581-4642, elsinoregallery.com

At Roy John Designer Goldsmith

New Paintings by Eric Wuest. A founding member of Artists in Action, Eric helped start programs such as Paint the Town that continue today. In 2013, he created the KMUZ radio show Talking About Art, spotlighting art and artists of the mid-Willamette Valley. The program continues today with host and photographic artist Joel Zak and production manager Phil Krug at 100.7FM and at kmuz.org. Opening Reception: 5 to 7 p.m. August 7
When: August 7 through September 30
Where
: Roy John Designer Goldsmith, 315 Court St. NE
When: Aug. 7 through Sept. 30

At World Beat Gallery

India: Beyond Bollywood! —  India is a nation of many cultures, languages and religions. The gallery shares a glimpse into the history and diverse traditions of the world’s second-most populous country. Salem Multicultural Institute’s World Beat Gallery exhibits are curated by community members to help reflect and share their culture.
When: Through September 18
Where: World Beat Gallery, 390 Liberty St. SE
Info: salemmulticultural.org

 

The Instigator
Author: The Instigator

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