A Note from the Instigator....
Hello, Friends! From moonlit movies and live music under the stars to the return of the Marion County Fair, this weekend is primed for soaking it all in.
— Carlee, The Instigator
PS: We’re working on the fall edition of Press Play Salem...and it’s going to be a good one! If you’ve got an event, artist, or story idea you think we should know about, now’s the time to share.
Movies in the Park
Salem Movies in the Park
Movies in the Park returns this weekend with Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire on July 11. Scroll down for details. Photo from Movies in the Park
📅 THURSDAY HIGHLIGHTS
Kick off the weekend early with live music, local art, and free fun all around town.
Marion County Fair Opens
Fair season is here—and opening day admission is free for everyone! (Scroll down for full fair details.)
All Abilities Workshop
Create your own flag using found and craft materials at this free hands-on session hosted by Living Studios. Visitors are welcome to drop by, meet the artists, and join the creative process. 12 to 3 p.m. Thursday, July 10 in the Maribeth Collins Lobby at the Hallie Ford Museum of Art.
Live Music: Dante Zapata
A fan favorite, Dante Zapata returns to Chemeketa Cellars with a soulful blend of blues, jazz, gospel, and country. His acoustic sets deliver heartfelt, genre-spanning “music for the soul.” 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 10 at Chemeketa Cellars, 215 Doaks Ferry Rd NW. Free. chemeketacellars.com
Trivia Night at Stomp
Hosted by John Croft of Croft Vineyards, this monthly trivia event features wine, wood-fired pizza, and a chance to win a $50 gift card. Teams of six max; RSVP required. 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 10 at Stomp by Croft Vineyards, 5475 River Rd S. RSVP: Call or text 503-364-3085.
West Salem Summer Concert Series: Salem Big Band
Bring a blanket and enjoy a free concert in the park with live jazz by Salem Big Band. Concessions available; no alcohol allowed. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10 at West Salem Park, 265 Rosemont Ave NW. facebook.com/WestSalemLionsClub
Salem Poetry Project: Brian Rohr
Poet, storyteller, and founder of The Stafford Challenge, Brian Rohr presents work that blends myth and memory, followed by the Infamous Open Mic (three poems or five minutes). 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, July 10 at the Bush Barn Annex, 600 Mission St SE.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
⭐ FEATURED PICKS
Live music, a moonlit movie, and a high-energy dance floor—your weekend starts here.
Marion County Fair
Celebrate all things Made in Marion with live music, rides, contests, fair food, and fun for the whole family. Musical headliners include:
- Friday, July 11: Lit — Defining the late-’90s SoCal power punk sound with hits like “My Own Worst Enemy” and “Miserable.”
- Saturday, July 12: Drake Milligan & Ned LeDoux — A night of country charm with Milligan’s smooth baritone and LeDoux’s legacy-steeped songwriting.
The Fair runs July 11–13 at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. Concerts are free with admission, and it’s cheaper if you buy tickets online in advance. [Click here for tickets]
Second Friday Ceili
No partner? No experience? No problem. Ceili of the Valley Society hosts this welcoming, high-spirited dance night featuring live Irish music by Bonnie Griffin and Elizabeth Nicholson, with caller Geraldine Murray guiding every step. 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, July 11 at the VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE. $5 to $30 admission.
Movies in the Park: Ghostbusters – Frozen Empire
When an ancient artifact unleashes a new evil, old and new Ghostbusters unite to stop a second ice age. Approx. 9 p.m. Friday, July 11 at Riverfront Park’s Gerry Frank Amphitheater. Free. Click here for trailer. Bring low-back chairs, snacks, and friends. (No alcohol, smoking, or vaping.)
Marion County Fair
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🍽️ FOOD & DRINK (AND MORE)
Tastings, feasts, fiestas...this weekend’s flavor is full-on summer.
Shades of Brew Grand Reopening — Celebrate the return of Shades of Brew and its new culinary partnership with The Inferno Kitchen. Enjoy live mural painting by Jonezy Artwork all weekend and live music, including Ty Curtis with Rich Lawrence on Friday night, and Dre Tucker (4–6 p.m.) followed by Schwing! (7–10 p.m.) on Saturday.
Miches y Mariscos Summer Fiesta — Celebrate National Michelada Day with three handcrafted micheladas, three marisco tastings, and DJ Reyes spinning cumbia, banda, and more. 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at Xicha Brewing North, 2195 Hyacinth St NE #162. $45. [Click here for tickets]
Peak Harvest at Bryn Mawr — Chef Jonathan Jones serves a 6-course dinner inspired by the vineyard’s seasonal wine flight. Expect bold flavors, valley bounty, and perfect pairings. 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 11 at Bryn Mawr Vineyards, 5935 Bethel Heights Rd NW. $150 per person.
Eola-Amity in the Alley — Electric Alley fills with great wine, food, and music by Silver Possum with 2 Man Bob. Wineries include Sun Break Cellars, Satyr Fire, Vincent Wine Company, Cubanisimo, Kristin Hill, and Cherry Hill Winery. 12 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 12.
Herbal Cocktail Night — Explore the power of herbs in six expertly mixed cocktails during this interactive session with herbalist Devon Young and Tsunami owner Jason. Includes tasters, recipe cards, and a souvenir glass. 5 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at Tsunami Taproom. $15.
Small Producer Sunday: Amica Luna — Meet the winemaker behind Amica Luna and sample limited-production wines in this relaxed tasting series celebrating the art of small-batch wine. 12 to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 13 at Bryn Mawr Vineyards. Free. brynmawrvineyards.com
Sunday Suppers at Epiloque — Every Sunday through the summer, Epiloque is hosting supper, community style. “No regular menu; an assortment of platters hitting the big table, from 5 p.m. until 9 or everyone is done. Think Midsummer feasts and cookouts. Roasts, sides, desserts, wine, and cocktail specials.” $25 per person not including beverage or gratuity.
This weekend at Salem Cinema...
Salem Cinema July 11
🤝 COMMUNITY
Here’s what’s happening beyond the main stage.
Critter: A Pop-Up Exhibition
Featuring work by Travis Johnson, Holden Head, and Jonathan Bucci, this weekend pop-up brings bold, unexpected art to downtown Salem. Reception: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 11. Open hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, July 12–13 at 331 State St.
2nd Annual Mid-Valley Lavender Festival
Wander the fields, sip lavender lemonade, and take in U-pick blooms, artisan vendors, food, and family-friendly fun—including a new underground slide and fenced play area. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 11 & 12; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 13 at Arrowhead Lavender Farm, 6373 Sunnyview Rd NE. $10 parking per vehicle. [Click here for more info]
Summer Market Days at West Hills Vineyards
Shop local makers, take a Barre3 class, enjoy live music, and sip your way through a relaxed afternoon in wine country. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 13 at West Hills Vineyards, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW.
2025 HART Horsepower Car Show
Showcasing vintage rides, great food, raffles, and family fun—all to benefit the HART nonprofit organization. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at West Hills Stables, 3065 Orchard Heights Rd NW.
Art Opening
Salem Art Association is hosting the opening reception for its newest exhibits, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 11 at Bush Barn Art Center & Annex, 600 Mission St. SE | 503-581‑2228, salemart.org
🎬 ON THE BIG SCREEN
Big screens, bold stories, and a few laughs at cinema’s expense—here’s what’s playing.
Lights After Dark: Funny People Making Fun of Bad Movies
Four comedians. One truly terrible film. Think Mystery Science Theater meets cult classics and sharp, unscripted wit. 10:30 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at Northern Lights Theater Pub. $15. [Get your tickets here]
Summer of Soul
While Woodstock made headlines, the Harlem Cultural Festival uplifted a generation—and went unseen for over 50 years. This award-winning documentary finally brings that powerful moment in Black history to light. Showing daily July 12–17 at Salem Cinema. [Click here for tickets]
National Theatre Live: A Streetcar Named Desire
Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby, and Ben Foster lead this acclaimed production of Tennessee Williams’ masterpiece. Filmed live during a sold-out run at London’s Young Vic Theatre. 12 p.m. Sunday, July 13 at Salem Cinema. [Click here for tickets]
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest — 50th Anniversary Screening
Revisit this iconic story of rebellion and resilience starring Jack Nicholson. A landmark film that still hits hard. 4 & 7 p.m. July 13 and 7 p.m. July 16 at Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway St NE. [Click here for tickets]
🎭 ON STAGE
Gigglefest Comedy
Soul of Wit presents a roast battle featuring Lynette Manning, Thor Askdal, Jason Webb and Borderline Leasha, 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 11 at The Yard Food Park. $15 at the door.
And the fun continues 7 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at Willamette Valley Smokehouse with comedians Erik Escobar, Lynette Manning, Jason Webb and Cameron McCormick. Suggested donation of $20.
LIGHTS UP!: A Drag Brunch
Start your Saturday with a fierce and fabulous drag brunch hosted by Salem’s own Lylac, alongside queens Henny, Sariah Monique, and Amy Ta'Kill. This high-energy, mixed-media show takes place right on the stage of the Historic Grand Theatre. Brunch includes table seating with your choice of breakfast or a $10 concessions voucher. Ages 18+ only. 12 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets: $30 table seating. [Buy tickets here]
Pentacle Theatre presents Black Comedy
A British farce with a twist—when the lights go out for the characters, the stage lights go up for us. This fast-paced one-act flips theatrical convention and keeps the laughs coming. 7:30 p.m. July 10–12, 17–19 and 2 p.m. July 12–13 at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW. [Read our Press Play feature here] | [Buy tickets here]
Streetcar Named Desire
🎶 Live Music
Take in a night of live music from the vineyard to the farm...
Eola Live! – Dancehall Days
Enjoy wine, sunset views, and a high-energy set from Dancehall Days at Legacy Estate Vineyard. Family-friendly. Friday, July 11 at 1600 Oak Grove Rd. Tickets $20 advance / $25 at the door. Kids 12 & under free. [Click here for tickets]
Sunset Concert: Roundhouse Band
Southern rock, folk, and bluegrass-style harmonies fill the hillside at Coria Estates. 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 11. $15. All ages welcome. [Click here for tickets]
Mitch Lies
Covers of The Beatles, Eagles, Jimmy Buffett and more. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 11 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S. $5. ankenyvineyard.com
Nathan Olsen & Jamila Maries
Keyboards and vocals, perfect for a summer sip and sit. 5 to 7 p.m. July 12 at West Hills Vineyards, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW.
Garry Meziere Birthday Bash w/ Joanne Broh Band
Celebrate blues-style with a band of top-tier players, special guest Orvil Ivie, and food from The Half Penny. 8 p.m. July 12 at The Half Penny Public House, 3743 Commercial St S.
Rock the Cask Bar
Cask tapping, food specials, and live rock by JFK as The Bad Space turns 13. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at 2544 19th St SE. $15 advance; $20 door.
Orchard Drive
Rock, pop, blues, and golden oldies—live and outdoors. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 12 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S. $5. ankenyvineyard.com
Summervine: Johnny Wheels & the Swamp Donkeys
Kicking off Hudak House’s summer concert series with bold blues and a party vibe. 21+. 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at Hudak House, 5737 Orchard Heights Rd NW. [Click here for tickets]
Ty Curtis Band
Soulful vocals and fiery guitar fill the lawn at Chemeketa Cellars. Wine, beer, cider, and food trucks on site. 6 to 8 p.m. July 12 at 215 Doaks Ferry Rd NW. Free. chemeketacellars.com
Greg Nestler Band
Classic rock and blues from Hendrix to Vaughan. Bring a chair and a breeze-friendly layer. 2 to 4 p.m. July 12 at Trinity Vineyards, 1031 Wahl Ln S. trinityvineyards.com
Joseph Dane
Acoustic sets with vineyard views. 2 to 5 p.m. July 12 at Cubanisimo Vineyards, 1754 Best Rd NW. cubanisimovineyards.com
Opera a la Cart
Live opera meets local lunch as Portland Opera pops up at Minto Island Growers. 12:30 p.m. Sunday, July 13 at 3394 Brown Island Rd S. [Click here for more info]
Rebecca Hardiman Quartet
Smooth jazz with seasoned Portland pros. 3 to 5 p.m. July 13 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S. ankenyvineyard.com
Karaoke Night
Tropical drinks and bold vocals meet at this high-energy karaoke party. 9 p.m. Sunday, July 13 at Tiki Lounge Lancaster, 165 Lancaster Dr SE.
🎨 ON EXHIBIT
Explore art from prints to paintings...
- At Hallie Ford Museum of Art is the opening weekend of Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts Biennial, highlighting a selection of contemporary prints created at the renowned printmaking atelier on the Umatilla Reservation.
- Salem on the Edge opens its July exhibits featuring Prince Gnarls Presents: Welcome To Heartbreak and Guest Artist Sontonya Necheal
- See four new exhibits at Salem Art Association
- Veils of Light: Between Stillness and Illusion | Robert Bibler & John Van Dreal continues at Stefani Art Gallery
- Artists in Action Gallery’s July featured artist is John Mohney
Click here for a full list of what's on exhibit this July.