Things to do in December 2019

Last month of 2019! Let’s make it a celebration…for 31 days!
Here’s what’s happening in December in Salem, Oregon!
(Don’t see your event here? Sent us an email and let us know about it!)

December 1

Tips for Tots (see further along) kicks off with the “TR Melton Memorial Race For The Rest Of Us,” a grueling 0.05 mile run. The buy-in gets you a marathon bib, custom made 0.05 sticker for the back of your car (26.2 who really cares?), donuts and beer midway through the race (gotta carb load) and the overwhelming joy of participating. Need a pinch-runner? Tips for Tots will arrange one of their “professional” volunteers to take your place in the race, but you get to keep the donuts and beer. All proceeds go directly to Tips for Tots, which benefits families through St. Francis Shelter, the Center for Hope and Safety and Family Building Blocks.
When: 3 p.m. Dec. 1
Where: f/Stop Fitzgerald’s Public House, 335 Grove St. NE
Cost: $35-$50. Sign up at racefortherestofus2019.bpt.me 

Tour The Elsinore for a behind-the-scenes peek at the theater followed by a demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer — the largest theater organ in the Pacific Northwest. RSVP by calling 503-375-3574.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $5 cash at the door
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Join sitar player J.J. Gregg for a Musical Meditation class. Musical Meditation is a practice from the South Asian Classical Music tradition. By increasing our sensitivity to pitch, we can achieve a calm mind. This sensitivity is achieved through yogic breathing and meditative focus in which we hold individual pitches for long lengths of time. The first half of class is spent working with Musical Meditation; the second half of class provides students the medium of live sitar performance as a focus for meditation. Preview the music at soundcloud.com/jjgregg
When: 5 to 6 p.m. December 1
Where: Yoga Library
Cost: $10
Info: charukeshi.roopak@gmail.com

Saintly Sundays with Saint Syndrome, the lowest bass with the smallest waist and Oregon’s only piano-playing live-singing drag queen.
When: 8 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 1
Where: Taproot Lounge & Cafe, 356 State Street
Info: 503-363-7668, facebook.com/events/2305666976365566/

December 1 and 8

Take a tour (or two) during the Holiday Open Houses at Deepwood Museum & Gardens and Bush House Museum. Each location features colorful decorations, live music and light refreshments. The Bush House Museum features Victorian-inspired holiday decorations, with period music in the parlor. Deepwood hosts Santa Claus in the solarium and self-guided tours with greeters in period clothing.
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 1 and 8
Where: Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 1116 Mission St. SE
Info: deepwoodmuseum.org & bushhousemuseum.org 

December 2

The Holiday Film Series features Scrooged (1988) starring Bill Murray, Karen Allen, John Forsythe about a selfish, cynical television executive is haunted by three spirits bearing lessons on Christmas Eve.
When: 2 and 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

December 3

​Help kick off Holidays at the Capitol with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, which begins with a musical performance just before the tree lighting.
When: 5 p.m. Dec. 3
Where: Oregon State Capitol, 900 Court St NE
Info: 503-986-1388, oregoncapitol.com

Visit Salem Art Association for Art Talk Tuesday: William Blitz will share insights into the James Kirk exhibition.
When: 10 a.m. Dec. 3
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Info: www.salemart.or

December 4 to 24

During Holidays at the Capitol, the Capitol Rotunda will fill with the sounds of the season featuring school choirs, musicians, and performers representing their communities throughout Oregon.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, Dec. 4 to 24
Where: Oregon State Capitol, 900 Court St NE
Info: 503-986-1388, oregoncapitol.com

December 4

Prisms Gallery hosts the Underground Art Bazaar and is also the starting point for the Salem Art Walk. Stop by, view, shop and pick up the map before venturing out to view the art around downtown Salem.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4
Where: Prisms Gallery, 189 Liberty St S, Suite B2

The Holiday Film Series features The Santa Clause (1994) starring Tim Allen, Judge Reinhold, Wendy Crewson about a man who inadvertently makes Santa fall off of his roof on Christmas Eve and finds himself magically recruited to take his place.
When: 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Go downtown on First Wednesday for shopping, art, live music, local vendors, games, beer, food and more.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4
Where: Downtown Salem
Info: facebook.com/salemfirstwednesday

Take in the Star Trees Lighting & Holiday Concert at Willamette University. The ceremonial lighting of the historic Star Trees takes place at 6:30 p.m., followed by the Family Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. in Smith Auditorium featuring the University Wind Ensemble, University Chamber Orchestra and Jazz Collective who will perform an array of seasonal music to usher in the holidays.
When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4
Where: Willamette University, 900 State St.
Info: 503-370-6255

December 5-7

25th annual Tips For Tots fundraiser returns. Since bartender Rob Melton started this annual tradition, more than $110,000 has been raised to help bring happy holidays to families in need in the Willamette Valley. This year, Rob’s goal is to raise $10,000. Rob will donate all his tips all three days. Make your reservations today by calling 503-581-5508.

But this fundraiser isn’t just limited to Rob at Table FIVE 08. A number of other local businesses are also joining in.
Blast Off! Vintage, 860 High St. NE, will be donating 100% of all sales on December 5. That’s right. Everything, all day!
Straight from New York Pizza will be donating 100% of their sales from all stores between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on December 7. WooHoo! Who doesn’t like pizza?!
When: December 5 through 7
Where: TableFive08, 508 State St.
Info: www.facebook.com/tipsfortotssalem

Through December 21

Pentacle Theater presents Dashing Through the Snow written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, Jamie Wooten and directed by Deborah Johansen. It’s four days before Christmas in the tiny town of Tinsel, Texas, at the Snowflake Inn. Trina, the harried yet upbeat innkeeper of this B&B, has more than she can handle coping with her eccentric, nuttier-than-a-fruitcake guests who include Mrs. Claus and one of Santa’s elves, a troupe of pompous B-level actors, a feuding family and a wacky wedding party. A fun-filled way to ring in the Christmas season. Watch for Press Play Salem issue 10 for a feature story about Dashing Through the Snow!
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29-30, Dec. 4-7, 11-14, 18-21 and 2 p.m. Dec. 1, 8 and 15
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW.
Tickets: Purchase in advance at Pentacle’s ticket office at 145 Liberty St. NE or by calling 503-485-4300 or online at pentacletheatre.org. Tickets also available at the theater box office 45 minutes before each show.
Info: 503-485-4300

Enlightened Theatrics is proud to present Ken Ludwig’s ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas about a mouse, an elf and a spunky girl on a wild Christmas adventure on a quest fo discover why Santa missed their house last year. Preview show with talk-back on Nov. 27. Watch for Press Play Salem issue 10 for a feature story about ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29-30, Dec. 4-7, 11-14, 18-21 and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 1,8,15, 22
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 187 High Street NE
Cost: $25 to $29; $15 student
Info: 503-585-3427, enlightenedtheatrics.org

Thursdays

Each week, the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the “Infamous Open Mic” – 3 poems or five minutes whichever is shortest. The featured reader begins at 7 p.m. and the open mic directly follows.
When: 7 p.m. Thursdays in December
Where: Ike Box, 229 Cottage St NE
Info: facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject 

December 5 and 6

Christmas in Hudson Hall. Rooted in the Lessons and Carols service originally created in Oxford, England that tells the Christmas story, this performance is a look at the historical roots of the season with seasonal readings by rhetoric Professor Jeanne Clark that will connect to carols sung by the audience, with special feature selections performed by Vox, Voce and the Willamette Chamber Choir.
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.
Where: Hudson Hall at Willamette University
Cost: $10; $8 students and children
Info: 503-370-6255, willamette.edu

December 6

24th Annual Riverfront Park Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bundle up and bring your family to celebrate the holidays with a special visit from Santa, free hot cocoa and cookies, live reindeer, holiday bell ringing, musical performances from the North Salem High School Choir, craft-making and more. The tree lighting will be led by Salem Mayor Chuck Bennett and is expected to begin at 6:30 p.m. One child in attendance will be selected to help Mayor Bennett “flip the switch” to light the tree.
When: 6 p.m. Dec. 6
Where: Riverfront Park, 200 Water St. SE

December 7

The Handmade Market features more than 170 vendor booths selling a variety of locally handcrafted and vintage holiday gifts, from jewelry to bath products, decor to original art, and much more. Swag bag giveaways to the first 100 shoppers. Raffle prizes. Scavenger hunt for the kids.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
Where: Jackman-Long Building, Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE
Info: facebook.com/SalemEtsyTeam

Catch the sporting action up close and personal at Cherry City Roller Derby’s annual Wreck the Halls bout featuring a mash-up of skaters creating two fun and creative holiday-themed teams. Food and beer will be available for purchase.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
Where: The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE
Cost: $10 advance;  $12 at the door. $5 for age 6 and younger. Tickets are sold at Santiam Brewing, Hit This! Derby Gear*, and Kay’s World of Wigs*. (*Cash only)
Info: cherrycityrollerderby.com

December 7 and 8

Stop by the greenhouse for the Deepwood Holiday Market, two-days of decorations, home decor, handicrafts, food, locally-made products, vintage items and more. Plus, from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 8 check out the annual Holiday Open House.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8
Where: Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 1116 Mission St. SE
Info: 503-363-1825, deepwoodmuseum.org

December 8

American Ballet Academy presents A Children’s Nutcracker performance featuring beautiful dancing, colorful costumes, professional scenery, and Tchaikovsky’s enchanting Christmas score.
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 7 and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 8
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $16-$24 in advance; 17-$25 at the door.
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Explore the Renaissance Christmas Faire for artisan chocolates, live music, hand-made gifts, holiday theater, plus Arcane Cellars’ award-winning wines. Listen to live recorder and flute music with Figs & Thistles, along with tunes from the Salem Madrigal Singers from 1 to 3 p.m. Watch two holiday plays, “A Christmas Story” and “Stubby Pringle’s Christmas,” performed by Theatre 33 from 3 to 5 p.m. Shop from a variety of unique, artisan craft vendors.
When: 12 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8
Where: Arcane Cellars, 22350 Magness Rd NW
Cost: $10 tasting fee; free for club members.
Info: arcanecellars.com/event/renaissance-christmas-faire/

December 9

The Holiday Film Series features Elf (2003) starring Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart. After discovering he is a human, a man raised as an elf at the North Pole decides to travel to New York City to locate his real father.
When: 2 and 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

December 10

Salem Reads chosen title, Piecing Me Together, will be given away—400 free books, one to each library cardholder. Don’thave a library card? Don’t worry. Just bring your picture ID and proof of address, and they’ll get you a free card. If you miss the giveaway, there will be 120 library copies in circulation. The book can also be purchased at Friends Book Store, The Book Bin, and Reader’s Guide. Watch for the fourth season of Salem Reads in February 2020.
When & Where: Tuesday, December 10
3-5 p.m. @ West Salem Branch Library
6-8 p.m. @Main Salem Public Library
Info: splfoundation.org/salem-reads-2020.html

December 11

Catch the Jay and Silent Bob Reboot Roadshow with Jason Mewes and Kevin Smith. The New Jersey stoner icons who first hit the screen 25 years ago in CLERKS are back. When Jay and Silent Bob discover that Hollywood is rebooting an old movie based on them, the clueless duo embark on another cross-country mission to stop it all over again.
When: 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: SOLD OUT!
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

December 13 to 15

Celebrating 20 years, the Salem Holiday Market is a handmade, handcrafted gift show featuring more than 250 vendors. Friday night is a special early shopping event which includes wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres.
When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 13, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 14, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 15
Where: Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE
Cost: $8 to $15 Friday, $3 Sat-Sun
Info: 503-585-8264, salemcommunitymarkets.com

Theatre 33 presents Curiously Wonderful Christmas Stories. Take in an evening of storytelling and Christmas cheer and celebrate holiday traditions from around the world, as Tom, Liz, Jenn, and Cameron rollick through curiously wonderful stories. Discover the origin of our most cherished holiday traditions and fun facts about Christmas old and new.
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 13-14, 19-20 and 2 p.m. Dec. 14-15
Where: M. Lee Pelton Playhouse at Willamette University, 900 State Street
Cost: $15; $12 senior and age 12 and younger. Get tickets at brownpapertickets.com/event/4441589

December 13

Winter Céilí and Silent Auction Fundraiser. Dance your way into the holidays at the Ceili of the Valley Society’s Second Friday Ceili Mor, an Irish social dance featuring live Celtic music with Outbound Traveler Band. No experience or partner needed (a free lesson is included with admission), and if you’re not a dancer, you can always just go for the tunes. There will be a silent auction, the organization’s only fundraiser of the year.
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 13
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St. NE
Cost: $10; $5 student; $30 family
Info: ceiliofthevalley.org

Confluence Willamette Valley LGBT Chorus presents Winter Lights, a concert filled with old and new seasonal music conducted by Raymond Elliott, Founding Artistic Director. The concert will include Handel’s “Let Their Celestial Concerts All Unite,” with words by John Milton; John Rutter’s “Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind,” with text from Shakespeare; “African Star Carol,’ by Michael Barrett, and other songs featuring light and winter themes. Influence, Confluence’s small ensemble, will also perform.
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13
Where: First Congregational United Church of Christ, 700 Marion St. NE
Cost: $15; $12 senior and student; $3 more at the door. Note: No one is turned away due to lack of funds.
Info: facebook.com/Confluence-LGBT-Chorus-227908093923823

December 14

Celebrate your holiday season with a marvelous journey to Eugene Ballet’s The Nutcracker. There’s joyful magic at every performance as hundreds of aspiring young dancers join the Company on stage, while the Sugar Plum Fairy transports all to the Snow Kingdom and the Land of the Sweets. You’ll cheer and boo at the battle with the not-so-scary Mouse King and his Pirate Henchmice, as Clara and The Nutcracker win the day.
When: 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $27 to $47 adult; $17 to $37 age 17 and younger. $22 to $42 group 10+
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Stand-up comedian Beth Stelling is also a writer and actress. Named “Best Stand-Up Comedian in Chicago” by the Chicago reader in 2010, Beth made her late-night debut on Conan and returned in 2017. She’s appeared on Comedy Central’s @midnight, Chelsea Lately and The Pete Holmes Show, performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live and has a Comedy Central special.
When: 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
Where: Capitol City Theater, 210 Liberty St. SE #150
Cost: $20 online; $25 at the door.
Age: 18 and older
Info: 971-599-1871; capitolcitytheater.com

December 14 & 15

Willamette Master Chorus presents Carols for the Season, a concert of popular holiday tunes. The Sprague High School Concert Choir will join for a solo set of carols, then combine to present “Fantasia on Christmas Carols” by Ralph Vaughan Williams. Other highlights include four new carols arranged for the WMC by Chris Jones, David Schmidt, Johnathan Campbell and Dan Davison; The Handbell Choir from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church; and Nicolai Strömmer, Baritone Soloist.
When: 3 p.m. Dec. 14 and 15
Where: Hudson Hall at Willamette University, 900 State St.
Cost: $20 to $30
Info: 503-580-0406, willamettemasterchorus.org

December 15

Oregon Senateaires present Sing We Noel holiday show, a benefit for Canyonview Camp features the SenateAires Chorus, Gold Note Quartet, Silva And Gold Quartet, Harmony Road Quartet, Local Boyz Quartet and Oregon Spirit Chorus.
When: 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15
Where: Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St SE
Cost: $15; $10 age 12 to 17; Family $50.
Info: senateaires.org/concert 

Festival Chorale Oregon presents Sing We Now of Christmas, an afternoon of traditional carols performed by the Festival Carolers dressed in Victorian costume. Raise your holiday spirit with an audience sing-along and a special opportunity for children to gather on stage for the telling of a classic holiday story. Gather before the festivities for photos with Saint Nicholas, and receive a small holiday treat bag after the program.
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $10. Free for age 12 and younger.
Info: 503-375-3574, www.elsinoretheatre.com

Celebrate pop culture at Crossroads Comic Con with comic books, toys, artists and more. Early bird entry at 9 a.m.
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 15
Where: Holiday Inn Hotel Salem, 3301 Market St. NE
Cost: $5. $8 early bird. Free for children 10 and younger
Info: crossroadscomcicon@gmail.com

December 16

KMUZ 8th Birthday Bash. Celebrating eight years of community radio with music, drinks and lots of cake (while it lasts)
When: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16
Where: Painters Hall at Pringle Creek Community, 3911 Village Center Drive
Info: kmuz.org 

December 17

The Salem Progressive Film Series features Eating Animals, in which filmmaker Christopher Quinn examines the environmental, economic and public health consequences of factory farming. There will be a discussion with featured speaker following the film.
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 17
Where: Grand Theatre, 191 High St. NE
Cost: $5
Info: salemprogressivefilms.net

December 19-29

Back by Popular Demand! A Christmas Story – The Musical features all the iconic scenes from the movie are here, joined by a delightfully versatile score that ranges from gentle ballads to show-stopping full-ensemble numbers. This musical will bring an exciting new dimension to those who have seen the movie and will stand on its own for those who haven’t.
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19, 20, 21, 27, 28 and 2 p.m. Dec. 21, 22, 28, 29
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $29 to $59
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

December 19-23

Magic at The Mill is a winter celebration featuring five nights of family-friendly festivities including thousands of twinkling lights, children’s activities, heritage tours, live music, demonstrations, vendors and more.
When: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 19-23
Where: Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. SE
Cost: $8; $5 for children
Info: willametteheritage.org/magic-at-the-mill

December 21

Yule Make Music. Make Music Salem, known for the glorious day of live music held throughout downtown Salem on the Summer Solstice, has been branching out the last few years to include winter, too. 

Jingle Bell – Jingle Bell – Jingle Bell Walk Family Parade. Dawn your most festive gear and head downtown. The parade will start and end near Salem Center Mall (exact location still to be determined) and will stroll through local businesses downtown sharing the merriment of the season with bells, costume contest, candy and carol singing.
When: 4 to 5 p.m.-ish Dec. 21
Where: Downtown Salem
Info: facebook.com/makemusicsalem

Ho – Ho – Ho Santa Holiday. A festive pub crawl for those 21 and older, organized by The Moxie Initiative in partnership with Make Music Salem. Dress up in your best Santa duds (whether this is a tacky Santa T, a sexy Santa suit or the full shebang) and join in for costume contest, carol singing, live music and more, 7 to 11 p.m.-ish.
Here’s the schedule:
7 p.m. Venti’s Cafe + Basement Bar, 325 Court St. NE
8 p.m. 1859 Cider Co., in the alley at 249 Liberty St. NE
9 p.m. Victory Club, in the alley at 155 Liberty St. NE
10 p.m.  Taproot Lounge & Cafe, 356 State St.
Info: facebook.com/moxieinitiative

Join or watch Salem’s kayak, canoe and dragon boat parade in the 15th Annual Illuminata Regatta. Light up your boat and paddle the Riverfront Park slough in a parade from the sternwheeler dock to the Peter Courtney pedestrian bridge. Paddlers need a decorated boat, life jacket, whistle, and Invasive Species Permit if the boat is 10 feet or longer (you can get a permit at the State Marine Board, 435 Commercial St. NE).
When: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 21
Where: Salem’s Riverfront Park
Info: Jim Craven at 503-871-5171

Jazz and blues with Australian vocal stylist DeeDee Lavell and pianist Nathan Olsen.
When: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 (repeats Jan 11 and 25)
Where: Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Drive S
Info: ankenyvineyard.com

Salem Orchestra presents “The Snowman” film and live score with other holiday favorites.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Salem First Church of the Nazarene, 1550 Market St. NE
Cost: $25; $20 senior, $10 student 18 and younger, $5 child 5 and younger. $3 more at the door.
Info: salemorchestra.org

December 22

My Brothers And I return to Salem to play their 5th annual holiday season show. Enjoy a brand new set from the band that features unreleased songs mixed in with their classics.
When: 8 p.m. Dec. 22. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Where: Venti’s Cafe, 325 Court St NE
Cost: $15. Purchase tickets here.
Age: all ages

December 24

Salem Tuba Holiday is an annual tradition musical merriment featuring players of conical bore instruments: baritone horns, euphoniums, tubas, and sousaphones. The show includes arrangements of popular Christmas carols and holiday songs performed by musicians from all over the northwest.
When: 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 24
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $10
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

December 25

Free Carousel Rides. While the rides are free, there is a suggested canned-food donation to support Marion-Polk Food Share.
When: 12 to 4 p.m. Dec. 25 and Jan. 1
Where: Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, 101 Front St. NE

December 29

The Fanciest 5K Ever is a recreational, fun, community race were everyone participating runs in formal wear from fancy dresses to tuxedos to top hats and tiaras. Money raised supports Safety Compass, a local organization that provides free, confidential advocacy for sex-trafficking survivors in the mid-Willamette Valley.
When: 9 a.m. Dec. 29
Where: 300 Glen Creek Road NW
Age: 10 and older
Cost: $35
Info: facebook.com/fanciest5kever

December 31

Ring in 2020 with New Year’s Eve Improv Comedy Night. All ages welcome at the 7:30 p.m. show; 21 and older only at the 9:30 p.m. show, which also includes a complimentary champagne toast at midnight along with a dessert and hors d’oeuvre buffet before the countdown.
When: 7:30 or 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31
Where: Capitol City Theater, 210 Liberty St. SE #150
Cost: $15 early show; $30 late show
Info: 971-599-1871; capitolcitytheater.com

Salem’s Art Scene…

Artists in Action’s Something Red

Artists in Action’s annual Something Red Art Walk, Exhibit and Sale returns to downtown Salem. This unique show features a variety of art styles and mediums from paintings in oil, acrylics and watercolor to mixed media, photography, ceramics, fiber and more, all including the color red. Open to artists throughout Oregon, this juried exhibition includes work from emerging to professional artists. 

An artist’s reception and awards presentation will take place 7 to 8 p.m. Dec. 4 at Elsinore Framing and Fine Art Gallery, 444 Ferry St. SE. 

A self-guided art tour lets you explore the creations on your own time all month long. While the bulk of the art is housed at Elsinore Gallery, from December 4 through 27, a number of other downtown businesses will also feature art. For more information, visit www.artistsinaction.org.

Hallie Ford

The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is Oregon’s third-largest art museum. It features works by Pacific Northwest and Native American artists, a diverse collection of traditional European, American and Asian art, as well as artifacts that date from antiquity. Frequently changing exhibitions include lectures, special events, tours, artist demonstrations and educational opportunities for children and adults.

The museum is located at 700 State Street. Cost to explore is $6, $4 for seniors and $3 for students 18 and older. People age 17 and younger are admitted free, and admission is free for everyone on Tuesdays. For more information, visit willamette.edu/arts/hfma, or call 503-370-6855.

NOTE: The museum will be closed Dec. 21 through Jan. 5 for Winter Break.

Through December 20
What Needs to Be Said: Hallie Ford Fellows in the Visual Arts brings together the thirteen artists who have received the Hallie Ford Fellowship in the Visual Arts between 2014 and 2016, an award given annually to artists living in Oregon, that is based on accomplishment, depth of practice, and future potential. These artists—Karl Burkheimer, Ben Buswell, Tannaz Farsi, MK Guth, Anya Kivarkis, Geraldine Ondrizek, Tom Prochaska, Wendy Red Star, Jack Ryan, Blair Saxon-Hill, Storm Tharp, Samantha Wall and Lynne Woods Turner—evidence the rich and nuanced field of visual and cultural production in this region. There is no single theme that unifies their diverse practices, but rather, seen together they illuminate the breadth of approaches that define our globalized art world.

Make Your Mark: Prints from the Rick Bartow Print Archive — Rick Bartow (Wiyot, 1946-2016) was a renowned Oregon artist who worked in a variety of media, including painting, drawing, and sculpture. He was also a prolific printmaker and over the years created etchings, lithographs, and monoprints with different printmakers. This small exhibition focuses on Bartow’s devotion to drypoint etching, which represents his most favored printmaking technique.

Bartow and his estate donated 362 prints to the collection of the Hallie Ford Museum of Art (HFMA) in 2016 and 2017. These donations comprise the bulk of Bartow’s print archive and joined the 46 prints that were already part of the collection. The HFMA’s collection represents the most comprehensive gathering of Bartow’s prints and contains 408 in total – 331 drypoint etchings, 18 lithographs, 16 etchings, and 14 monoprints.

January 7 through April 26
Checkmate! Chess Sets from Maryhill Museum of Art — Over the past 1000 years, the game of chess has spread across the world, crossing cultural and political boundaries. This exhibition looks at the wide range of chess sets made during the past 250 years by diverse cultures from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. While operating within a predetermined structure of the 32 game pieces, artists bring their own creativity and interpretation to each set, resulting in a wide variety of themes and materials. Created with wood, glass, bone, and ivory, the sets include traditional designs, as well as abstract, non-figurative sets and narrative sets depicting mythological characters or historical figures.

January 26 through March 29
John Buck: Prints and Sculpture from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation — John Buck is a nationally recognized Montana artist who has created a large and powerful body of woodblock prints and wood sculptures over the past four decades. Buck is a virtuoso draftsman who has learned to draw with different types of sharp tools, which he uses to explore both local and global issues in sophisticated works that are imbued with complex iconography and often layered with multiple meanings.

Related Events

Tuesday Gallery Talk — Join museum docents for a complimentary guided tour of the “What Needs to Be Said: Hallie Ford Fellows in the Visual Arts” exhibition. 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Dec. 17. Maribeth Collins Lobby.

Salem Art Association

Founded in 1919, the Salem Art Association aims to engage the community in the appreciation of the arts through contemporary art exhibitions and events, arts education for youth and adults, and the preservation and interpretation of our shared cultural heritage.

Events and exhibits are located in the Bush Barn Art Center at 600 Mission St. SE. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. There is no charge to visit, but donations are always accepted. For more information, call 503-581‑2228 or visit salemart.org.

Through  December 8
Latinos Unidos Siempre — This graffiti art exhibition reflects the work of Latinos Unidos Siempre (LUS) to combat local and national systemic and social issues impacting people of color and youth. This project discusses the complex history of graffiti as well as connects the social, political and cultural issues of graffiti through youth advocacy and representation in the urban arts. In The Annex at the Bush Barn Art Center

Through December 24
James Kirk: This is Absolutely, Positively the Very Last Art Show — Beloved Oregon artist James Kirk presents a collection of drawings and watercolor paintings in what he calls his “absolutely, positively very last art show.” Kirk has mentored numerous artists and educators throughout his long career as a professor at Oregon State University and Western Oregon University.

Holiday Showcase — This annual, gift-themed exhibition is a one-stop-shop for unique gifts. More than 50 artists will be selling traditional art, plus jewelry, ceramics, textiles, tree ornaments, greeting cards, and more at the Bush Barn Art Center.

January 8 through February 20
Veterans Exhibition featuring Matthew Boulay
Reception: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17

January 18 through February 23
John Oberdorf: Archeospaces presents a survey of oil paintings that subtly play with our perception of reality and alludes to a dream-like existence. Oberdorf is a graduate of Oregon State University with a degree in Art and a minor in Anthropology. His work has been exhibited in galleries throughout Arizona, California, and Oregon; is featured in numerous collections from New York to Los Angeles; and was reviewed in publications such as Art News. Reception: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17

Katie Gilmour: Something Missing / Missing Something — “Lately I have been looking at the impact on a subject when it’s been separated from its whole. ‘Something Missing / Missing Something’ is about the body and separation; about being whole, even after loss. About enjoying how something can be simultaneously strange and lovely; complete, yet still missing something. On one hand, this a very personal narrative of loss, but it also speaks to a more collective experience. There is no person unaffected by loss, yet the human psyche can recover; never seeming incomplete for long. We evolve in order to include what is missing as part of this new identity.” Reception: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17

Cynthia Herron — “As an artist, I have looked to landscape for fifty years. I have walked it, contemplated it, sketched it, painted it, photographed it, and written about it. With this series, I explore narrative and story as a participant, not just analyst. What happened in this location before I arrived? How did this object get here, or what if that object was left behind? Does an object have inherent good or bad qualities, beneficial or intrusive to the landscape? These questions remind me of the Japanese aesthetic ‘wabi-sabi,’ the beauty of the imperfect and impermanent.” Reception: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17

December 8 through January 4
TEDxSalem Artist-in-Residence: Danielle Baca — The TEDxSalem AIR program aims to connect with the community through public art. Each year, TEDxSalem provides support for an artist to create a stage installation that will help set the tone for the event, communicate the event theme, and convey an ‘idea worth spreading.’ The artist will present a TEDx talk on stage at the annual event during the year of their exhibit. It is the hope that through this program, we can connect ideas, innovation and community through art. Learn more at www.tedxsalem.com.

Willamette Heritage Center

Preserving and interpreting the history of the Mid-Willamette Valley, the Willamette Heritage Center features 14 historic structures that house permanent and changing exhibits, a research library and archive, textile learning center, and rentable event spaces over a five-acre campus, which also has retail shops, art galleries, cooperative artist studios, and offices. It is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and located at 1313 Mill St SE. Cost to explore is $8. $7 senior, $5 student and $4 for ages 6 to 17. For more information, call 503-585-7012 or go to willametteheritage.org.

Through December 23
Stitches & Stories: Discoveries from the Oregon Quilt Project. For the past 10 years volunteers with the Oregon Quilt Project have been working tirelessly to document the states quilts. This exhibit showcases some of the most interesting finds of the documentation process — both in terms of fantastic construction and heartfelt stories. See how this project has helped to translate a new chapter in our community’s history by looking at the quilts that have been left behind.

Prisms Gallery

Prisms Gallery has a mission to encourage people with disabilities to explore and challenge themselves through artistic practices and make meaningful connections within our community. As part of Partnerships in Community Living, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides services to people with intellectual/developmental disabilities throughout Oregon, is a resource to artists of all kinds in the Salem area offering free activities and events. Prisms Gallery, located at 189 Liberty St S, Suite B2, is open 1 to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Info: 503-990-8283, facebook.com/prismsgallery. Info: facebook.com/cameraobscuraimages.

Through December
Camera Obscura — An exhibit by Dee Moore Photography featuring a series on gender roles and androgyny. Reception: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4

Oregon Governor’s Office

Since 1975, the Art in the Governor’s Office Program has honored selected artists in Oregon with exhibitions in the reception area of the Governor’s Office in the State Capitol Building. The office is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. An exhibit in the Governor’s Office is considered a lifetime honor. Info: www.oregonartscommission.org

Through January 21
Those Who Step Into the Same Rivers — In this new body of work Astoria artist Darren Orange’s compositions stretch further from literal reference and deeper into abstraction. The artist continues to explore automatism, a practice of intuitive mark-making that engages both play and meditative focus. The resulting built-up paint layers present suggestive imagery that reveal the history of the painting process in line, smudge and replacement. The exhibited works were created in Orange’s studio on the Columbia River.

Gallery 444

Located within Elsinore Framing & Fine Art Gallery at 444 Ferry St. SE, Gallery 444 hosts month exhibits highlight artists from in and around Salem. Info: 503-581-4642, elsinoregallery.com

December — In partnership with Artists in Action, Something Red includes more than 90 artists exhibiting works featuring red. Reception: 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 4

January — Featured Artist Vignette show with new artists Tricia Kittredge and Geronimo Calzada anchoring the exhibit. Reception: 5 to 8 p.m. Jan 8 (unless it snows)

Art Exhibits

CCTV, in partnership with Artists in Action, hosts Aesthetic Adaptations Art Show, featuring artwork from Lorraine Dye, Robert Hawley, Nitza Hernandez, Bill Leach, Sherree Rodriguez, and Brock Wickett, through December at CCTV Salem, 575 Trade St SE

Sláinte: Celebrating Celtic Cultures — An exhibition exploring the seven Celtic cultures: Brittany, Cornwall, Galicia, Ireland, Isle of Mann, Scotland and Wales through customs, celebrations and more. Salem Multicultural Institute’s World Beat Gallery exhibits are curated by community members to help reflect and share their culture. Through Feb. 14, at World Beat Gallery, 390 Liberty St. SE. Info: salemmulticultural.org

Author: The Instigator