Here’s what’s happening this August in Salem —

August 1

Yoga on the Rooftop — Take in views of the Capitol and downtown during a 60-minute, all-levels yoga class led by Kristen Aubert. The class will move into the YMCA’s Capitol Room if rooftop weather is not suitable. 10 to 11 a.m. Aug 1 at Salem Family YMCA. Cost: Suggested donation $5 to $10. Register here.

Summer Block Party — Chemeketa Street closes to traffic for an afternoon of downtown fun where you can browse local vendors, grab something to eat, and enjoy a DJ, chalk art, a bounce house, foam parties, princess appearances, fire juggling, and other family activities. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, on Chemeketa Street outside Salem Center. Free.

On High Fest brings a day of reggae, hip-hop and genre-blending live music to Salem’s riverfront. Slightly Stoopid headlines a lineup that also includes Big Boi, The Elovaters, DENM and Chali 2na with Chris Karns, along with vendors and food. The festival is open to all ages and happens rain or shine. 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at Riverfront Park, 200 Water St. NE. Click here for tickets.

Sol Seed: Unofficial “On High” Afterparty — Oregon reggae-fusion group Sol Seed blends reggae with rock, soul, hip-hop and world-music influences. The late-night set continues the On High celebration with an all-ages performance built around connection and high-energy grooves. 10 p.m. Aug 1 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Cost: $10; free with an On High wristband until 11 p.m. Get tickets.

August 2

Brothers Collection Annual Car Show — Explore automotive history and craftsmanship during the Brothers Collection’s annual car show. Aug 2 at Brothers Collection Museum. Get your tickets here.

Minty & T Too Memorial Car Show — See classics, modern muscle, four-wheel-drive vehicles, semis and more at the fourth show in this summer series. The event also includes music, raffle prizes, food, beverage and retail vendors. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug 2 at 4070 27th Ct SE.

Yoga + Coffee — Ease into Sunday with a 60-minute, all-levels flow led by Mikki on the lawn at Prismatic Coffee Company. Participants can enjoy coffee and time together before or after practice. 12 to 1 p.m. Aug 2 at Prismatic Coffee Company. Suggested donation $5–$10. Register here.

Wine & Watercolor — Paint with Magenta sets up easels among the vines for a guided watercolor session paired with a glass of Cubanisimo wine—no experience required. 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, August 2 at Cubanisimo Vineyards. Click here for tickets.

August 2 and 3

The Road to Everywhere at Salem Cinema The new indie film starring Robert Mirabal gets a two-day run at Salem Cinema. Screening 12:30 p.m. Aug 2 and 6:30 p.m. Aug 3. Click here for tickets.

August 3

Cheer on the Marion Berries as they face the Walla Walla Sweets in a summer baseball matchup. Arrive early for the Berry Fun Zone, ballpark food and the family-friendly atmosphere surrounding the game. 6:35 p.m. Aug 3 at Chemeketa Baseball Field. Cost: Tickets start at $10. Get tickets.

August 4

Yappy Yoga — Practice outdoors alongside two-legged and four-legged yogis during a benefit class for Oregon Humane Society. Stay after class for food and beverages, prizes, dog photos, grooming and other activities. 6 to 7 p.m. Aug 4 at Capitol Subaru. Suggested donation $5–$15; donations benefit Oregon Humane Society. Register here.

Celebrate Oregon-grown flavor as the Marion Berries host Homegrown Night presented by the Oregon Blackberry and Raspberry Commission. The evening combines baseball with the Berry Fun Zone and the team’s family-friendly ballpark experience. 6:35 p.m. Aug 4 at Chemeketa Baseball Field. Cost: Tickets start at $10. Click here for tickets.

First Tuesday Music & Poetry Open Mic — Musicians, poets, bands and performers of all kinds are invited to take the stage during this monthly open mic. Hosted by Matador Hamilton and Danny Shaw of Giantess, the evening welcomes experienced artists and first-time performers. 7 to 10 p.m. Aug 4 at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Cost: Free. Learn more here.

August 4 to 16

Theatre 33 Summer Festival — See six original plays at a pivotal stage in their development during Theatre 33’s annual Summer Festival. The rotating repertory includes professionally produced workshop performances of Lights in the Sky, Be Witch and PULL, along with staged readings of Crumbs/Migas, Majnun and Prodigies. Audience feedback gives playwrights valuable insight as they continue shaping their work for future productions. Various times and Salem locations, Aug 4 to 16. Get Tickets.

Learn more in our Press Play feature story here.

August 5

Gaiety Hollow Open Gardens — Visit the restored home, garden and studio of pioneering landscape architects Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver. Open Gardens offers a closer look at their work and lasting influence on Northwest garden design. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug 5 at Gaiety Hollow. Free; donations encouraged. Learn more here.

The Marion Berries close this home stand with a night celebrating the fans who support the team. The game includes the Berry Fun Zone, ballpark concessions and a family-friendly evening at the field. 6:35 p.m. Aug 5 at Chemeketa Baseball Field. Tickets start at $10. Register here.

August 6

Trivia Night — Test your knowledge during Stomp’s monthly trivia night hosted by John Croft. Teams may include up to six people, and the winning group receives a $50 Stomp gift card. 6 to 8 p.m. Aug 6 at Stomp by Croft Vineyards. Reserve your spot here.

Daring Greatly Band — This San Diego band brings together rock, country and a hint of blues. 6 to 8 p.m. Aug 6 at The Yard Food Park.

August 7

Go downtown for the First Friday Art Walk and explore creativity while supporting local businesses, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, August 7. Click here for the Art Walk Map to see which businesses and artists are participating.

Willamette Valley Laughs presents Friday Night Laughs starring Jaren George (@jaren.george) who loves to spoil his audiences from coast to coast, and featuring Erica Figueroa (@figueroacomedy) who has nothing but positive projections when she gets in front of a crowd. Both have been singled out among the funniest comedians in Portland as chosen by their peers in Willamette Week’s annual poll. 7 p.m. Aug 7 at Cellar 54, basement of The Forge. 21+ Over / Bar + Food available during show. Get tickets.

Movies in the Park — Bring a blanket or chair for a free outdoor screening of “How to Train Your Dragon” (2025, PG. 2 hours, 5 mins) “As an ancient threat endangers both Vikings and dragons alike on the isle of Berk, the friendship between Hiccup, an inventive Viking, and Toothless, a Night Fury dragon, becomes the key to both species forging a new future together.” Click here for trailer. Movie begins at approx 8:30 p.m. Aug 7 at Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater.

Growing Your Own Mushrooms Workshop — As part of the Sustainable Living Center’s Connecting & Caring for Earth and Community Summer Workshop Series. Learn how to grow your own edible and medicinal mushrooms at home. Leave with the tools needed to grow them yourself. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, August 7, at Painters Hall, 3911 Village Center Dr SE. Register here.

Dueling Pianos: Elton vs. Billy — The Dueling Hobbits put Elton John and Billy Joel head-to-head in an evening of piano-driven hits. Singalongs, audience requests and playful banter keep the all-ages show moving. 8 p.m. Aug 7 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Get tickets.

August 8

Englewood Forest Festival — Celebrate art, nature and community with 50 local artists, multicultural music and dance on two stages, food vendors and hands-on activities. The shaded park also offers playgrounds, a splash pad and a native pollinator garden. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug 8 at Englewood Park. Cost: Free. Learn more here.

Gaiety Hollow Open Gardens: Lord and Schryver Exhibit — Explore an exhibit in the museum home that looks more closely at the lives and work of Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver. Visitors may also spend time in the restored garden and studio during the special Saturday opening. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug 8 at Gaiety Hollow. Cost: Free; donations encouraged. Learn more here.

Riverfront Family Fest — Gather for a free day designed around family activities and community fun. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug 8 at Riverfront Park.

No Rules: 10 Thoughts for Writing Poetry — Poet Marc Janssen leads a workshop designed to help writers sharpen and focus their poetry. Marc has published more than 350 poems and coordinates the Salem Poetry Project. 1 pm Saturday, Aug 8 at Chemeketa Cellars, 215 Doaks Ferry Rd NW. RSVP: marc.r.c.janssen@gmail.com Note: Proceeds support the 2027 Salem Poetry Festival.

Run for Hope and Health — Run in support of Salem Free Clinics and its work providing medical care to uninsured and underserved community members. 9 a.m. Aug 8 at Minto-Brown Island Park, 2200 Minto Island Rd SW SE. Register Here.

Live Music: Joanne Broh Band featuring Gerry Meziere — smooth mix of blues, soul, jazz and roots rock in the orchard. 5 to 8 p.m. Aug 8 at Stomp by Croft Vineyards.

Conjure: Salem Night Market — The Historic Grand transforms into a nighttime market filled with ritual goods, dark art, jewelry, oddities and unusual curiosities. Live music, performers, a lounge and bar build an immersive atmosphere throughout the evening. 6 p.m. Aug 8 at Salem’s Historic Grand. Get Info.

Farm to Fork Dinner — Dine at a long table in the apple orchard during a four-course dinner prepared by Trellis of Dundee. Each course includes a wine or nonalcoholic pairing, with the meal prepared using a wood-fired brick oven. 6 p.m. Aug 8 at E.Z. Orchards. Cost: $120. Get tickets

Amerakin Overdose with Proven and Pitch Black Mass — Portland industrial and nu-metal band Amerakin Overdose headlines a heavy-music bill with Proven and Pitch Black Mass. The all-ages ballroom show combines crushing riffs, electronic textures and theatrical performance. 7 p.m. Aug 8 at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Get Tickets.

MarchFourth with Mr. Vale’s Math Class — MarchFourth combines horns, percussion, funk, rock, jazz, dancers, acrobatics and circus-inspired spectacle. Mr. Vale’s Math Class opens with horn-driven funk and playful, percussion-heavy grooves. 8 p.m. Aug 8 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Get Tickets.

Pachanga — Rhythmic Latin dance-friendly music, 8 p.m. Aug 8 at Xicha Brewing Norte.

Summer Sip & Shop — Browse local goods while spending a summer day at the vineyard, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug 8 at Kuenzi Family Vineyard.

August 8-9

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is a 70-minute compilation of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions and sourced animations, music videos, and classic internet powerhouses. It’s paws-itively hiss-terical, and a portion of ticket proceeds goes directly to local cats in need at Friends of Felines. See it Aug 8-9 at Salem Cinema. Get Tickets.

August 9

National Theatre Live: The Playboy of the Western World — Pegeen Flaherty’s life changes when a young man enters her pub claiming to have killed his father. The acclaimed stage production is presented on screen through National Theatre Live. 12:30 p.m. Aug 9 at Salem Cinema. Get tickets.

James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash — James Garner and his band recreate the live sound and presence of Johnny Cash with striking accuracy. The show features favorites including “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Ring of Fire,” “I Walk the Line” and “A Boy Named Sue.” 5 p.m. Aug 9 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Get tickets.

August 10

Philosophy Talks at Venti’s: Nihilism — This series invites the community to examine a different idea through guided conversation. The August discussion explores nihilism with Richard and welcomes participants of all ages. 6:30 p.m. Aug 10 at Venti’s Cafe. Free.

Yoga + Wine — Practice a 60-minute, all-levels outdoor flow in an orchard beside the Willamette River. After class, participants may stay for wine, food and time with the community. 6 to 8 p.m. Aug 10 Stomp by Croft Vineyards, 5475 River Road S. Suggested donation $5–$10; food and wine sold separately. Click here to register.

August 11

Music at the Mill features Water Street Project, a six-piece band featuring four acoustic guitars, creating a lush and vibrant sound. Bring a chair or blanket and settle in for an outdoor summer concert 6 to 8 p.m. Aug 11 at Willamette Heritage Center. Get tickets.

August 12

Reggae Vibes with Tony — reggae music, 6 to 8 p.m. Aug 12 at The Yard Food Park.

August 13

Bryn Mawr Winemaker Dinner — A four-course meal thoughtfully paired with complementary wines, enhancing the flavors and creating a truly unforgettable dining experience, 6 p.m. Aug 13 at The Cozy Taberna. Ages 21+. Get Tickets.

August 14

Second Friday Ceili — No partner? No experience? No problem. Learn the basics during a beginner-friendly lesson before live Celtic music gets everyone out on the dance floor. Whether you’re there for the dancing or the community, it’s one of Salem’s most welcoming monthly traditions. This month features live music by Bronnie Griffin, Bob Soper, and Elizabeth Nicholson and dances called by Maldon Meehan. 7 p.m., Aug 14, VFW Hall, 630 Hood St. NE. ceiliofthevalley.org

Curtis Salgado — Award-winning vocalist Curtis Salgado brings blues, rhythm and blues, funk, soul and gospel to the Grand. The performance includes music from his 2026 live album and draws on a career spanning more than five decades. 7:30 p.m. Aug 14 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Get tickets.

The Most Grand Improv Show — Audience suggestions inspire a fast-moving night of scenes, characters and unexpected comedy. The show is performed in the spirit of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” and may include mature material. 8 p.m. Aug 14 at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Get Tickets.

Willamette Valley Laughs presents Friday Night Laughs starring Greg Beachler (@gregbeachler) who commands the stage in Seattle and beyond, and featuring Thor Askdal (@thoraksdal) brings sharp wit after finding at odds, even with the law. 7 p.m. Friday, August 14 at Cellar 54, basement of The Forge. 21+ Over / Bar + Food Available during show. Get tickets

Opening August 14

Pentacle Theatre presents Catch Me If You Can — Based on the hit film and the incredible true story, Catch Me If You Can is the high-flying musical comedy about chasing your dreams and not getting caught. Nominated for four Tony awards, including Best Musical, this delightfully entertaining show was created by a Tony Award-winning “dream team,” with a book by Terrence McNally (The Full Monty, Ragtime) and a swinging score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray). Directed by Wendy Boyack. August 14 to September 5 at Pentacle Theatre. Get tickets.

Click here to read our Press Play Salem feature story.

August 14 to 16

Capital City Retro Fest — Celebrate pop culture and nostalgia during an all-ages welcome three-day concert. The 2026 line-up includes tributes to Def Leppard, Fleetwood Mac, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters, Duran Duran, Tom Petty, U2, Alanis Morissette, the Doobie Brothers and Hall & Oates. There is also a food cart pod and a central bar serving adult beverages to 21 & over attendees. Aug 14 to 16 at the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater at Riverfront Park. Get tickets.

August 15

Hot Import Nights — Custom vehicles, live DJs, vendors and festival-style production take over the Oregon State Fairgrounds. Interactive attractions include a two-step competition, audio competition and car limbo. 3 to 9 p.m. Aug 15 at Oregon State Fairgrounds. Get tickets, parking $10 per vehicle.

Capitol Cruise In — Hot rods, classics, lowriders, motorcycles and modern cars gather for an informal community cruise-in. The free event also includes live music and food trucks, with no vehicle registration required. 5 p.m. Aug 15 at 865 Marion St NE.

Tsunami Luau — Three Oregon Coast breweries take over the taps for an all-day luau featuring beers from Pelican Brewing, Buoy Beer Co. and Fort George Brewery. Grab a Hawaiian-style plate lunch, play games and enter raffles for prizes, including a paddleboard giveaway. All day Aug 15 at Tsumani Taphouse.

Run Club — Take in an evening of movement, music, and good vibes. First, a free 3-mile community run through downtown at 7 p.m., then a ticketed rooftop after party featuring music by @ohisthatkaniel & @officialdjinferno at 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug 15 at Cascadia Pizza Co. Tickets and more info here.

Wine & Watercolor — Paint Mt. Jefferson rising above a lavender field during a relaxed watercolor workshop led by artist Elisa Mack. Step-by-step instruction and all art supplies are included, making the class accessible to beginners and experienced painters. Wine and food are available for separate purchase. 1 to 3 p.m. Aug 15 at Chemeketa Cellars, 215 Doaks Ferry Rd NW. Get Tickets.

Cheyenne West Band performs an evening of live country music, 7 to 10 p.m. Aug 15 at The Yard Food Park.

August 16

Wine & Watercolor — Create a watercolor painting of Cannon Beach’s iconic Haystack Rock during a guided workshop led by artist Elisa Mack. Beginners and experienced painters are welcome; all supplies, step-by-step instruction and one glass of wine are included. 2 to 4 pm, Aug 16 at RH Estate Wines at Redhawk Vineyard, 2995 Michigan City Ln NW. Register here.

August 18

Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening — Jason Bonham always finds himself at home behind the drum kit. From this spot, he has anchored the tempo for a myriad of the most legendary artists of all-time. It’s the place where he initially realized his destiny as a kid. It’s a tried-and-true safe harbor for the expression of his purest emotions. It’s a direct conduit to his late father and Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham. 7:30 p.m. Aug 18 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.

August 19

Unpacking Our Past: Creative Writing Workshop — Award-winning writer Marilyn Johnston leads a 90-minute workshop inspired by Kept: What We Ask of the Past. Using artwork, prompts and creative techniques, participants will explore family, memory, inheritance and the objects we carry with us. Writers of all experience levels and genres are welcome; bring a favorite journal and pens. 6 to 7:30 pm, Aug 19 at Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St SE. $20. Register here.

August 20

Summer Yoga in the Park — Practice a 60-minute Vinyasa flow outdoors with Lorissa Addabbo of Common People Yoga and The Hot Loft. The donation-based class welcomes all experience levels; bring water and a mat or blanket. 6 to 7 p.m. Aug 20 at Lawn behind Bush Barn Art Center & Annex. Donation-based. Register here.

Jack Daniel’s Spirit Night — Explore a selection of Jack Daniel’s spirits during a guided tasting flight, followed by a fine-dining buffet dinner. 6 to 9 p.m., Aug 20 at The Cozy Taberna, 249 Liberty St NE #140. Get Tickets.

August 21

Cheesesteak Friday — Chef Jon serves Pennsylvania-inspired cheesesteaks along with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Guests can order wine, play lawn games and enjoy the vineyard during the early-evening gathering. 5 to 8 p.m. Aug 21 at Bryn Mawr Vineyards. Reservations required. Make yours here.

Movies in the Park — Grab a blanket and picnic for a free, outdoor screening of Zootopia 2 (2025, PG. 1 hour, 48 mins) “Brave rabbit cop Judy Hopps and her friend, the fox Nick Wilde, team up again to crack a new case, the most perilous and intricate of their careers.” Movie begins at dusk Aug 21 at the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater at Riverfront Park.

Lexi Tucker is a country artist and songwriter from Silverton, OR, currently living in Nashville, 6 to 8 p.m. Aug 21 at Kuenzi Family Vineyard. Get tickets.

National Park Radio with Rich McCloud — Ozark Mountains indie-folk duo National Park Radio performs harmony-rich songs with the energy of a full band. Rich McCloud opens with a blend of rap, soul, hip-hop, blues-rock, folk and spoken word. 7:30 p.m. Aug 21 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Get tickets.

Soul of Wit presents Hot Heat Comedy Competition: Best of the Northwest Semifinals — Comedians compete for a place in the Best of the Northwest championship round and a cash prize. 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Aug 21 at The Yard Food Park. Cost: $15 at the door.

Willamette Valley Laughs presents Friday Night Laughs with headliner Jeremiah Hughes (@jeremiahhughescomedy), host of the MUSH Podcast and well traveled comedian, and featuring Shadd Foster (@shaddfosterjoke), a master of the roast and festival at Stay Fresh Fest. 7 p.m. Friday, Aug 21 at at Cellar 54, basement of The Forge. 21+ Over / Bar + Food Available during show. Get tickets

August 22

Summer Camp for Grownups — Unplug for a day of rest, creativity, movement and play. Choose from activities including poetry writing, yoga and meditation, friendship bracelets, rock painting, art projects and outdoor play, or skip the schedule and spend the day relaxing. 9 am to 5 pm Saturday, Aug 22 at GeerCrest Farm, 12390 Sunnyview Rd NE. Get Ticket

Property Research Class — Learn how to uncover the history of a home or other property in Marion County and the greater Salem area. WHC staff will introduce deed searches, historic photo research, and useful resources from the museum’s collections. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Aug 22 at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE. Register here.

Community Connection and Celebration — The Final Part of the Sustainable Living Center’s Connecting & Caring for Earth and Community Summer Workshop Series. Come together to celebrate summer, all that we’ve learned, and the community we’ve created! Bring any food you’d like to share, any of your summer harvest, or any helpful resources to support one another. 12 to 2 p.m. Saturday, August 22, at Painters Hall, 3911 Village Center Dr SE. Register here.

Roots & Rhythm: Common People Yoga 5-Year Anniversary — Celebrate five years of Common People Yoga with a day of movement, live music, mentorship and community. The schedule includes classes with Zohra Campbell and Bonnie Weeks, a Vinyasa class with MC Yogi and a closing rooftop performance. 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug 22 at Common People Yoga and Cascadia Pizza rooftop. Cost: Ticketed by session. Register here.

Gaiety Hollow Open Gardens with Artists in Action — Watch artists and writers create work inspired by Gaiety Hollow during a Paint/Write the Town gathering. The gardens remain open after the featured artist program for additional exploration. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug 22 at Gaiety Hollow.

Open Studios at the Mill — Meet artists and explore creative work during an evening of open studios, 5 to 8 p.m. Aug 22 at Willamette Heritage Center. Learn more here.

Gilbert House for Grown-Ups: Night at the Museum, Y2K Edition — Gilbert House becomes an adults-only playground for a Y2K-inspired evening of nostalgic projects and hands-on fun. Admission includes a photo booth, food and three drink tickets. 7 to 10 p.m. Aug 22 at A.C. Gilbert House. Click here for tickets.

Read our Press Play feature by Lindy Rybloom here.

Eric Oren featuring Tony Meyer — Second City graduate Eric Oren tests a new hour of fast-paced stories, chaotic observations and crowd work before a planned recording. Tony Meyer opens the all-ages comedy show. 8 p.m. Aug 22 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.

Soul of Wit presents Hot Heat Comedy Competition: Best of the Northwest Championship — Finalists return to compete for the Best of the Northwest title and a cash prize. 8:30 p.m. Aug 22 at The Yard Food Park. Cost: $15 at the door.

August 25

Music at the Mill features PDX Preachers for a night of blues. Bring a chair or blanket and settle in for an outdoor summer concert on the historic grounds. 6 to 8 p.m. Aug 25 at Willamette Heritage Center. Get Tickets.

August 27

A Toast to Tomatoes — Celebrate the bounty of the Willamette Valley and support the Sustainable Living Center’s (SLC) programs by sampling organic heirloom tomatoes grown in the PCC Urban Farm’s historic glasshouses and curated wine provided by Bar Noira – Salem’s chic and exclusive downtown wine bar. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, August 27, at Painters Hall, 3911 Village Center Drive SE. Get tickets.

Iterum Summer Series Winemaker Dinner — The Cozy Taberna and Iterum Wines present a four-course dinner with complementary wine pairings selected to bring out the flavors of each dish. Ages 21 and older. 6 to 8:30 pm, Aug 27 at Orchard House, 5917 Orchard Heights Rd NW. Get Tickets.

Opening August 28

The Oregon State Fair returns with concerts, carnival rides, livestock, exhibits, food and competitions. Daily schedules and admission options vary throughout the fair’s eleven-day run. Aug 28 through Sep 7 at Oregon State Fairgrounds. Get tickets.

August 28

The Trouble with Angels — Take in an evening of mischief and music with Jane Lynch and Kate Flannery. With powerhouse vocals, razor-sharp wit, and more than a few surprises, these two beloved stars serve up a cocktail of classic tunes, campy banter, and devilish charm. It’s part cabaret, part stand-up, and all sass—because when these angels get together, heaven can wait. 7:30 p.m. Aug 28 at Elsinore Theatre. Get Tickets.

Watercolor in the Gardens — Join for an evening in the gardens as Elisa Mack from Paint with Magenta teaches how to paint a lovely watercolor picture. All ages welcome, no experience necessary. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, August 28 at Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 1116 Mission St SE. Tickets are $50 each. Your ticket price includes all supplies, as well as a mat for your finished piece. Pre-registration is required. A portion of all proceeds benefit Deepwood’s preservation and programs. Register here.

Willamette Valley Laughs presents Friday Night Laughs with headliner Adam Pasi (@admpasi) known for his presence on screen, at festivals, and on stage as a favorite throughout the Northwest, and featuring Cody Chasteen (@codychasteen) the comedian Grandmother’s absolutely adore brings his inner basketball DAWG to crack you up. 7 p.m. Friday, August 28 at Cellar 54, basement of The Forge. 21+ Over / Bar + Food Available during show. Get tickets

Oregon State Fair features country artist Nate Smith, Friday, Aug 28 at the LB Day Amphitheater at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. A limited number of free seats are available with general fair admission on a first-come, first-served basis while space lasts. Purchase a reserved ticket to ensure you get a seat. Reserved tickets are available online and at the amphitheater gate right up to the start of the show. Buy Tickets

August 29

Oregon State Fair features Al Jardine of the Beach Boys + The Pet Sounds Band, Saturday, Aug 29 at the LB Day Amphitheater at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. A limited number of free seats are available with general fair admission on a first-come, first-served basis while space lasts. Purchase a reserved ticket to ensure you get a seat. Reserved tickets are available online and at the amphitheater gate right up to the start of the show. Buy Tickets

Live Music: Rewind Band — rock, pop and rhythm-and-blues favorites built for singing and dancing, 5 to 8 p.m. Aug 29 at Stomp by Croft Vineyards.

Bingo Loco turns a game into a full-scale party with throwback music, dance-offs, comedy, confetti and unusual prizes. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Aug 29 at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Get Tickets.

The Women Next Door with a Touch of Burlesque, a revue experience with electrifying energy. 9 p.m. Aug 29 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.

August 30

Yoga on the Lawn — Practice an all-levels outdoor yoga class led by Catherine of Yoga Escape. Donations are shared between Deepwood Museum & Gardens and the instructor. 10 to 11 a.m. Aug 30 at Deepwood Museum & Gardens. Donation-based. Register here.

Oregon State Fair features country pop artist Walker Hayes, Sunday, Aug 30 at the LB Day Amphitheater at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. A limited number of free seats are available with general fair admission on a first-come, first-served basis while space lasts. Purchase a reserved ticket to ensure you get a seat. Reserved tickets are available online and at the amphitheater gate right up to the start of the show. Buy Tickets

August 31

Oregon State Fair features hip-hop and country rap artist BigXThaPlug, Monday, Aug 31 at the LB Day Amphitheater at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. A limited number of free seats are available with general fair admission on a first-come, first-served basis while space lasts. Purchase a reserved ticket to ensure you get a seat. Reserved tickets are available online and at the amphitheater gate right up to the start of the show. Buy Tickets

Recurring Events

Mondays

Salem Community Markets organizes a Mini Farmers Market, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Mondays, through September at Salem Hospital Campus between buildings A & C. Open to the public.

Drop-in Improv Comedy Class — Whether you’re a casual fan or seasoned performer, hone your improv skills at this drop-in class that welcomes improvisers of all experience levels. Ages 15+ recommended. Classes are $5 each and your first class is free. Recurring 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Click here for info.

Tuesdays

Tuesdays at Bryn Mawr are about tacos and tunes. Each week, June through August, welcomes a different local musician and Ricky’s Taco Truck for an evening of wine, music, and delicious food. Taco Tuesday is free but reservations are required. 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Bryn Mawr Vineyard, 5935 Bethel Heights Rd. NW. Click here to make reservations.

Taco Tuesdays return for the summer with Chef Reyes bringing rotating taco specials to the grill each week. Grilled chicken and carne asada favorites share the menu with new creations, all served alongside house-made salsa and guacamole. 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Coria Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE. Click here to reserve.

Ceili of the Valley hosts weekly classes that invite dancers of all experience levels to join, learn, and have fun. Each dance is walked through and called, making the class approachable for beginners, families, and anyone curious about Celtic dance traditions. No partner is needed, and the atmosphere leans more welcoming and community-focused than formal. 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at VFW Hall, 630 Hood St. NE. $5, with the first class free for new dancers. Click here for more info.

Wednesdays

Gaiety Hollow hosts Open Gardens, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Wednesday through September at 545 Mission St SE. Gaiety Hollow is the home, garden, and studio of Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver. The Lord and Schryver Conservancy purchased Gaiety Hollow in 2015 and has since restored the garden to its period of significance. The property is listed on the National Historic Register. Learn more here.

Salem Community Markets organizes a Mini Farmers Market, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays through September at Chemeketa Community College’s Agriculture Building off 45th Ave. Open to the public.

Bricked Up Comedy is a weekly comedy open mic. Sign-ups open at noon the day of the open mic. To sign up, fill out the form here. All ages are allowed until 10, but material will not necessarily be clean. Sets are 5 minutes. Free, but there’s a two-item minimum for audience members and comics. 8 p.m. Wednesdays in the Brick Room at The Grand Theatre. Click here for info.

Bring a book, journal, sketch pad, board game, or puzzle, and take a break during Analog Hour, 4 to 7 p.m. every Wednesday at Noira, 285 Liberty St NE, Suite 135. $10 of select wine pours and snacks. Click here for reservations

Thursdays

Salem Community Markets organizes a Mini Farmers Market, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursdays through September at Edgewater St W between Kingwood and Gerth. Open to the public.

August Race Series — Run through Bush’s Pasture Park during a weekly August race series designed to bring the local running community together with 3K and 5K runs. Ribbon/Award night on final week. Recurring 6 p.m. Aug 6, 13, 20 and 27 at Bush’s Pasture Park. Register here.

Salem Poetry Project continues on a weekly basis. Each week will present a featured reader followed by the Infamous Open Mic: 3 poems or five minutes, whichever is first. The featured reader begins at 7:00, and the open mic will directly follow. The Salem Poetry Project meets at the Bush Barn Annex, 600 Mission St SE. For more information, contact Marc Janssen at mrcjanssen@msn.com.

The Underground Mic — Step up to perform or just go to listen. Five-minute sets. Sign-ups @ 6:30 or message IG @ventis_underground_mic. 7 p.m. Thursdays at Venti’s Beer Vault, 325 Court St NE. 21 and older. Free.

Fridays

Family Fun Fridays — Spend the day exploring hands-on activities, creative projects and family-friendly play on the historic grounds. Activities are designed for a wide range of ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug 7, 14, 21, and 28 at Willamette Heritage Center. Learn more here.

Saturdays

Salem Saturday Market — 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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Things to do in August in Salem, Oregon