Here's what's happening this December in Salem, Oregon.
Through December 1
Magic at The Mill lights up the season with four evenings of festivities, from sparkling displays and children’s activities to heritage tours, music, demonstrations, and vendors, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Nov 28 through Dec 1 at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. SE. Click here for tickets.
Through Dec 13
Christmas Eve at the Douglas household is anything but peaceful. Between the holiday dinner, unexpected guests, and a pair of bumbling robbers, chaos and laughter collide in Pentacle Theatre’s season-closing production of In-Laws, Outlaws & Other People (That Should Be Shot). The show runs through December 13 and brings a spirited mix of comedy, heart, and holiday mayhem to Salem. Click here for tickets. Learn more in our Press Play feature story here.
December 2
Nina West hosts A Drag Queen Christmas, the longest-running drag tour in the country, bringing a lineup of fan-favorite queens to the stage. Look for Lexi, Shea Coulee, Jewels Sparkles, Crystal Methyd, Suzie Toot, Brooke Lynn Hytes, Bosco, and Lydia B. Kollins in a night of big performances and bigger personalities. Ages 18+ welcome. 7:30 p.m. Dec 2 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Catch a benefit screening of the cult favorite Cocaine Crabs From Outer Space, hosted by Chuck McGee, 8:30 p.m. Dec 2 at Salem Cinema. Each ticket includes an entry into a raffle packed with prizes from local businesses, and one of the film’s stars, Kat, will be on hand after donating her tips from The Best Goose earlier that evening. This event supports Tips for Tots. Click here for tickets.
December 3
Kick off Holidays at the Capitol season with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Willamette Master Chorus performance starts at 5 p.m., followed by dignitaries at 5:30 p.m. Free photos with Santa follow directly after the tree is lit. Free cookies and punch while supplies last. Dec 2 at Oregon State Capitol. Click here for more info.
Christmas Brass with the B3 Brass Trio — Usher in the merry season with a spectacular showcase of music. Sound the trumpets and feel the power of the holidays with The B3 Brass Trio, in a high-energy, family-friendly concert filled with original, classical, and popular holiday favorites. The trio includes Bryce Schmidt (Trumpet), Benjamin Garrett (Horn), and Bailey Schmidt (trombone). 7 p.m. Dec 3 in Chemeketa Auditorium, Building 6, 4000 Lancaster Dr. Click here for tickets.
O Christmas Tea is rich in wordplay, comic physicality, and cleverly crafted interactive elements. When catastrophe strikes at James and Jamesy’s Christmas tea party, flooding the world with tea, the duo conjure wildly funny solutions to stay afloat, and sweep the audience out to sea in a jolly aquatic escapade brimming with whimsy, action, and ingenuity in a celebration of friendship at Christmas. 7:30 p.m. Dec 3 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
December 3 to 23
Holidays at the Capitol is a time-honored tradition that fills the Rotunda with the sounds of school choirs from around the state. Performances take place from Monday through Saturday. Holiday décor on display during building hours. December 3 to 23 at Oregon State Capitol. Click here for the choir schedule.
December 4
Salem-Keizer NAACP hosts the Freedom Fund Dinner & Celebration under the theme “We Rise Together: Justice, Equality, Hope”. This special evening will include inspiring speakers, award recognitions, community fellowship, and a delicious dinner and entertainment. Your support helps fund scholarships, advocacy, and justice work across Salem-Keizer. 5:30 p.m. Dec 4 at 620 Collective, 3772 Portland Road NE. Click here for tickets.
Dec 5
Dress up for an evening of holiday cheer at the Gala of Trees, an annual fundraiser for Family Building Blocks featuring exquisitely decorated trees plus a silent auction, live auction, dinner, wine, and dancing. 5:30 p.m. Dec 5 at Salem Convention Center. Click here for tickets.
The Riverfront Holiday Lights Display opens with a tree lighting celebration featuring Santa visits, carriage rides, and family activities. The park glows with thousands of illuminated displays and lighted tunnels, creating a festive backdrop all season long. The tree lighting takes place at 5:45 p.m. Dec 5 at Riverfront Park, 200 Water St NE.
Confluence opens its new season with Kindle the Flame, a winter concert led by new Artistic Director Jeffrey D. Witt. Centered on light, love, and chosen family, the program invites audiences to gather close for music that sparks hope and connection. It’s a warm, welcoming performance for anyone seeking a sense of belonging in the colder months. 7:30 p.m. Dec 5, in the MICAH Building, 680 State St. Click here for tickets.
Traveling Wheelz hosts Twin Night Open Skate, 8 to 10 p.m. Dec 5 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for more info.
Did you get a ticket for comedy with Ron Funches at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre? Lucky you! It's sold out.
December 6
The Salem Etsy Team hosts the Handmade Market. Browse and shop more than 150 local vendors offering entirely handmade goods at this family-friendly market, complete with a kids’ scavenger hunt, activity table, Santa visits, and more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec 6 at 2330 17th St NE. Parking is $10.
An Artist Talk: Jo Hamilton, whose work is featured in the A.N. Bush Gallery, will talk about the intricate process of making her work. Jo first started out as a painter, but has used only crochet and yarn to create her large-scale works for the last twenty years. Crochet (the French word for hook) is a deceptively simple act of tying three-way knots using a small metal hook, that Jo was first taught by her Gran when she was growing up in Scotland. This exhibition brings together many of Jo’s male nudes for the first time, and she will be discussing why she first began making them, the highs and lows of making giant artworks using tiny knots, her longtime friend and model, Shine; and why the medium and process are still so meaningful to her after two decades. 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec 6 at Bush Barn Art Center. Free and open to the public. Click here to register.
Fifth Annual Makers Market — Sip while you shop from a lineup of local makers with everything from pottery, skincare, and art to home décor, jewelry, apparel, sugar cookies, and more, 12 to 6 p.m. Dec 6 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Road S.
Mr. and Mrs. Claus visit Cristom for a family-friendly day with festive photo opportunities, kids’ crafts, and warm hot cocoa. Adults can enjoy Cristom wines by the glass or bottle while soaking in the seasonal cheer. A cozy way to welcome the holidays for all ages. 12 to 3 p.m. Dec 6 at Cristom Vineyards. RSVP at cristomvineyards.com
Salem Art Association hosts the Winter Holiday Happenings Open House, where you can shop, enjoy music, and support the arts, 12 to 4 p.m. Dec 6, at the Bush Barn Art Center & Annex, 600 Mission St SE and Bush House Museum, 600 Mission St SE. salemart.org
Explore immersive history by traveling back in time in the Museum’s seasonally decorated and beautifully maintained home and grounds. There will also be live music from: Constant Billy - Celtic and Americana (1 to 2 p.m.); Jabberwocky Quartet - A cappella quartet (2 to 3 p.m.); and Melissa Terrall - Piano (3 to 4 p.m.) 1 to 4 p.m. Dec 6 at Bush House Museum, 600 Mission St SE. bushhousemuseum.org
Explore local art during Open Studios at The Mill, where member artists open their workspaces for a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process. Wander through the studios, meeting artists and seeing works in progress along the way. Handmade pieces and original art will be available for purchase. 1 to 4 p.m. Dec 6 at Studios at the Mill at Willamette Heritage Center. Click here for more info.
Ukrainian Winterfest brings a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community to Salem. The festival invites visitors to experience Ukrainian heritage through music, art, food, and hands-on activities that highlight both tradition and resilience. The festival is organized by DAWN, Inc. (Defend Aid Widen Nurture), a Portland-based nonprofit that provides humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Admission is free, with donations encouraged to support DAWN’s mission. 1 to 6 p.m. Dec 6 at Center 50+, 2615 Portland Road NE.
The TR Melton Memorial Race for the Rest of Us returns. This “grueling” 0.05-mile dash includes a donut-and-beer break (thanks to Santiam Brewing Co.) and supports Rob Melton’s Tips for Tots program. The race begins at 2 p.m. Dec 6 at f/stop Fitzgerald’s Public House (don’t be late!). Suggested donation is $25, and kids can run, too. A special day-of announcement is promised.
Christmas at Corban Concert — Corban University's band, orchestra and choirs will perform a selection of Christmas music along with songs attendees can sing along with the choirs at this free concert, 4 p.m. Dec 6 at Corban University-Psalm Performing Arts Center, 5000 Deer Park Dr SE.
Conjure: Frost & Veil is a southern gothic night market featuring music, magick, and more. Family-friendly until 8 p.m. Adults only after. 5 to 11 p.m. Dec 6 in the Ballroom at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre
Get festive at the Jingle Bell Relay. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome, making it a relaxed, family-friendly way to move through the season. The Riverfront Holiday Lights Display adds extra sparkle as the park lights up around you. 5:30 p.m. Dec 6 at Riverfront Park. $10 to participate. egov.cityofsalem.net/ParksRec/Activity
Lights Up! Drag Brunch brings a high-energy mixed-media drag experience hosted by Salem’s own Lylac, joined by Misha Caliente MacPherson, Angelique Deville, and Riley Burrows. Expect standout performances, big personality, and a brunch crowd ready to cheer. Bring your friends, chosen family, and your ones. This 18+ showcase is built to dazzle. 12 p.m. Dec 6 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Tickets start at $15. Click here for tickets.
Steven Curtis Chapman’s The Music of Christmas Tour happening Dec 6 at the Elsinore is Sold Out.
Traditional Irish Music at Venti's Cafe and Beer Vault, 7 to 9 p.m. Dec 6 at Venti’s Cafe and Beer Vault.
Let It Go: A Burlesque Tribute to Frozen reimagines the beloved tale through a sultry, winter-themed showcase. Performers explore themes of identity and belonging with a bold, burlesque twist that’s equal parts icy and incendiary. A steamy escape for those 21 and older who like their snowstorms with sparkle. 8 p.m. Dec 6 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets start at $30 for this 21-and-older show. Click here for tickets.
December 6 & 7
Take in the Christmas Open House at the Brunk House, West Salem’s only Century Farmstead-Museum, with a delightful tour of the 1861 house lived in by three generations of Brunks. Enjoy light refreshments while browsing our gift shop, 12 to 4 p.m. Dec 6 and 7 at Brunk Farmstead, 5705 Hwy 22 W. Admission: Adult $5, Senior (62-99) $4, Student (6-17) $2, free for members, under age 6 and over age 99. The house and grounds are maintained by volunteers and operated by donations.
December 7
Visit Deepwood for its Holiday Open House and explore the home dressed in Victorian style, complete with handmade ornaments, hosts in period attire, and a visit from Santa in the Front Parlor. Enjoy 19th-century music from Constant Billy and browse gifts like teas and teacups in the Solarium, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec 7 at Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 1116 Missions St SE. deepwoodmuseum.org
Wreath Making Workshop — Create a fresh winter wreath with guidance from floral designer Sheena Nash of Beyond the Bloom Farm & Floral. Work with evergreens, eucalyptus, holly, pinecones, and ribbons to craft a custom piece while enjoying wine available for purchase. A festive, hands-on afternoon of creativity and holiday spirit. 1 p.m. Dec 7 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE. Click here for tickets.
Wood Turned Art Benefit — Explore hand-turned bowls, platters, and more at this benefit for the Lord & Schryver Conservancy. Crafted by David Lichter using mostly local wood, including native oak and pieces sourced from Gaiety Hollow, Deepwood, and Bush’s Pasture Park, each piece carries a bit of Salem’s landscape. A rare chance to see and purchase functional art with deep local roots. 1 to 4 p.m. Dec 7 at Gaiety Hollow, 545 Mission St SE. Click here for more info.
The Elsinore Holiday Film Series presents White Christmas (1954) — A successful song-and-dance team becomes romantically involved with a sister act and teams up to save the failing Vermont inn of their former commanding general. Starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera-Ellen, and more. PLUS…pop into Santa’s workshop for a selfie with Santa himself! He will be in attendance an hour prior to the show and visits are included with your ticket. 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec 7 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Magic Melodies is an all-day celebration of community, compassion, and incredible local music to support the Marion & Polk County Food Banks. This special benefit concert brings together some of the region’s most talented performers for an unforgettable night of sound and solidarity. 3 to 11 p.m. Saturday, December 7 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Bring non-perishable food items to support our local food banks and spread the spirit of giving even further. Tickets are $19 in advance; $20 day of show. Click here for tickets.
The Elsinore Holiday Film Series presents It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) — An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed. Directed by Frank Capra. Starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore and more. (Note: Santa will not be in attendance at this show) 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec 7 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
December 8
Feast on Breakfast for Dinner in support of Tips for Tots, 6 to 8 p.m. Dec 8, at Honey&Co. Suggested donation is $30 per plate or two for $50. Every dollar of every sale will be donated to Tips for Tots.
December 9
Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts Biennial Exhibition curator Rebecca Dobkins will give a free gallery talk, 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec 9 at Hallie Ford Museum of Art.
Celebrate the season at an Ugly Sweater Holiday Yoga Party featuring a chill, non-heated class and your first drink included. Bring warm clothing donations for Salem Soup Squad; each item earns an entry to win class passes. Prizes, giveaways, and plenty of festive sweater fun round out the evening. 6 p.m. Dec 9 at The Holman Hotel. Click here to register.
Salem Cinema hosts a Reel Change benefit screening for the OSH Museum of Mental Health, featuring the Oregon-filmed classic One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher lead this gripping story of rebellion inside a tightly controlled psychiatric ward, a film that continues to spark conversation nearly 50 years later. Proceeds support the OSH Museum, which preserves the history and stories of the Oregon State Hospital through volunteer-run exhibits and community engagement. Speakers at 6 p.m., followed by movie at 6:30 Dec 9 at Salem Cinema. Click here for tickets.
December 10
Salem Reads: Book Giveaway — Pick up a free copy to keep of the Salem Reads chosen title, Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt, a heartwarming story of a unique friendship between an aging night custodian and a restless octopus who connect during their hours spent in a coastal aquarium. Choose a print book in Spanish or English. Limit: One per visitor while supply lasts. The book can also be purchased at Friends Bookstore, The Book Bin, and Reader’s Guide. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec 10, at Salem Public Library.
Looking in the Mirror: Seeing Ourselves in Art is an SAA talk examining how artists express identity through symbolism, metaphor, and cultural narrative. This session, Where Is Home – Cultural Diffusion in the Modern World, explores how blended identities, shaped by heritage, culture, and personal choice, are reflected in art. Attendees will consider the many ways artists depict the intersections of identity. 6 p.m. Dec 10 at Bush Barn Art Center. Free to attend. Space is limited. Click here to RSVP
Tippy Toe Dance Studio presents Moira & The Moth, a whimsical tale following 12-year-old Moira as she’s drawn beneath the earth by a mysterious moth, exploring friendship, loss, and the search for truth. 6 p.m. Dec 10 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
December 11-14
The World According to Snoopy brings Charles M. Schulz’s beloved Peanuts characters to life in a musical filled with humor, heart, and plenty of Snoopy charm. It’s a warm, witty take on childhood, imagination, and friendship presented by Bridgetown Conservatory of Musical Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Dec 11 and 12 and 10 and 3 p.m. Dec 13 and 14 in The Verona Studio Theatre at the Reed Opera House, 189 Liberty St NE. Click here for tickets.
December 11
The Winter Remembrance Concert offers a family-friendly space to reflect and find comfort through music and words of support. Featuring the Music Therapy Team and a Spiritual Counselor, this free community event invites attendees to remember loved ones and share a gentle moment of connection during the season. 6:30 p.m. Dec 11 at Willamette Vital Health, 1015 3rd St NW. Click here for more info.
Bryn Mawr Winemaker Dinner — Raise a glass to an evening of culinary delight with Bryn Mawr Vineyards. Enjoy six courses paired with wines that bring out every flavor note, plus the option to upgrade with a premium take-home package. Guests must be 21+. 5 p.m. Dec 11 at The Cozy Taberna. Click here for tickets.
December 12
3 Wise Women of The Blues — Take in a fun, rollicking, and meaningful holiday show with Joanne Broh, Ellen Whyte, and Myrtle Brown. This soulful trio will bring an eclectic mix of well-known and obscure holiday songs (with audience participation encouraged), a sprinkling of original blues tunes, and a few surprises along the way. 7 p.m. December 12, at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Traveling Wheelz hosts Disney Night Open Skate, 7:30 to 10 p.m. Dec 12 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for more info.
A Night at Nakatomi Plaza: A Dramatic Reading of Die Hard — Are you ready for the Christmas Season? Do you need to attend that one event that gets you in the mood? Look no further than the ultimate Christmas movie, read to you in dramatic fashion by local comedy and improv legends. This performance needs you to play the pivotal role of the hostages at Nakatomi Tower, so get your ticket and get ready to take part, as we spend an exciting evening celebrating this classic movie in the best way possible. 8 p.m. December 12 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets start at $15 for this 18-and-over show. Click here for tickets.
Get out and dance at the Second Friday Ceili. Ceili of the Valley Society welcomes musicians Dale and Nell Russ & Teresa Baker and caller Mary Lowes for this no-experience, no partner needed event. Even if you are not a dancer, you can do it. But really, the music alone is worth it! Doors open at 7 p.m. followed by a short dance lesson and live music from 8 to 11. All dances are taught before the live music begins. The motto of every dance is to have fun, so wear comfortable shoes, bring some water and try out something new. 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Dec 12 at VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE. $10; $5 student, $30 family at the door.
December 12-14
Salem Holiday Market brings together more than 200 local vendors offering all handmade goods, from gifts and décor to treats and creative crafts. Enjoy free entry, live music, kids’ activities, and door prizes throughout the weekend. A lively, local-first way to shop for the season. Dec 12 to 14 at Oregon State Fairgrounds. Click here for more info. $10 parking fee
December 12-21
With a blend of wit and warmth, Theatre 33 presents Holiday Shorts Part 2, an enchanting evening of short plays by Pacific Northwest Playwrights that provide a unique perspective on the essence of the yuletide season, Dec 12 to 21 in the M. Lee Pelton Theatre at Willamette University. Click here for tickets. Read our Press Play feature story here.
Through Dec 13
Christmas Eve at the Douglas household is anything but peaceful. Between the holiday dinner, unexpected guests, and a pair of bumbling robbers, chaos and laughter collide in Pentacle Theatre’s season-closing production of In-Laws, Outlaws & Other People (That Should Be Shot). The show runs through December 13 and brings a spirited mix of comedy, heart, and holiday mayhem to Salem. Click here for tickets. Learn more in our Press Play feature story here.
December 13
Wreck the Halls closes out Cherry City Roller Derby’s 2025 season with a doubleheader featuring junior skaters at 4:30 and adults at 7 for a full night of action and early holiday cheer. Dec 13 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for tickets.
Cória Holiday Market brings together a collection of local vendors for a day of seasonal shopping, 12 to 5:30 p.m. Dec 13 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE. Click here for more info.
Salem Cinema presents a screening of the acclaimed documentary The Librarians, followed by a Q&A with editors Tammy Jabin, Sydney Darby, and Salem Public Library’s Sonja Somerville. The film examines librarians as frontline defenders of the First Amendment amid rising book bans and political pressure, tracing how censorship efforts impact communities. A timely conversation about the freedom to read and those fighting to protect it. 5:15 p.m. Dec 13 at Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway St NE. Click here for tickets.
Holidaze on the Rocks — “Whose line” meets holiday classics in this hilarious romp through the season. You (the audience) get to choose the challenges the comedians face as they try to perform yule tide music, stories, and more. If the performers miss the mark or fail a challenge, they get a penalty and take a drink. 7:30 p.m. Dec 12 in the Ballroom at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Jenner Fox Band: A John Prine Christmas will weave together Prine’s classic hits, his holiday-themed songs, and stories, and include a chance to sing along, too, 8 p.m. Dec 13 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. 8 p.m. Dec 13 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets start at $20. Click here for tickets.
Celebrate the season at the Cristom Christmas Party, an evening filled with live music, festive bites, and warm holiday spirit. The tasting room will be aglow with twinkling lights, cozy charm, and the joyful sounds of the season. Savor a flight of Cristom favorites, indulge in holiday-inspired treats, and take in live music featuring Dan Schlesinger, all in a setting designed to make spirits bright, 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec 13 at Cristom Vineyards. Click here for tickets.
Holiday Wine & Watercolor pairs a guided wreath-painting session with the relaxed atmosphere of Chemeketa Cellars’ rural vineyard tasting room. Instructor Elisa Mack leads participants step-by-step, with all supplies provided and plenty of time to sip award-winning student-made wines. It’s a festive way to unwind, get creative, and enjoy an afternoon with friends or a date. 1 to 3 p.m. Dec 13 at Chemeketa Cellars. Click here for tickets.
December 13-14
A Very Poké Christmas Holiday Gift & Collectible Show is two days of cosplay, character meet-and-greets, vendor tables, giveaways, and hourly prizes. Kids 12 and under get in free with a paid adult, and the first 100 attendees each day receive a complimentary holiday gift. VIP passes offer early entry, bonus gifts, and access to Saturday’s trade night. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec 13 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec 14, at Holiday Inn Salem, 3301 Market St NE. Click here for tickets.
A Children’s Nutcracker returns to brighten your holiday spirit! Experience Christmas magic with dance and music, with students from Salem’s American Ballet Academy. All profits are donated to Marion Polk Food Share. 7 p.m. Dec 13 and 2:30 p.m. Dec 14 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
December 14
Salem Youth Symphony Winter Concert — Mozart Players, Amadeus Players, Philharmonia, and Youth Symphony share the stage for a wide-ranging program spanning Vivaldi to Copland. The evening features works by Strauss, Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, Saint-Saëns, and more, including a violin solo by Addison Jones in Danse macabre. 3 p.m. Dec 14 in Smith Auditorium @ Willamette University, 270 Winter St SE. Tickets are $15 adults; Free for youth 18 and younger. Click here for tickets.
Take in an event of Comfort & Joy, a Jam for the Pantry at Marion Polk Food Share starring True North Duo, and featuring Tuesday String Band. Canned and dry food donations gladly accepted. All ticket proceeds will be donated to MPFS. 4 p.m. Dec 14 at The BAD Space, 2572 19th St SE. Click here for tickets.
December 17
A Koto Christmas: East Meets West features the SamaZama Duo, koto master Masumi Timson, and cellist Joseph Harchanko. Their program blends traditional and contemporary Japanese music with tango, jazz, blues, and Western classical influences, creating a vibrant cross-cultural soundscape. Audiences can expect global holiday traditions, Chinese New Year celebrations, Celtic Yule tunes, and familiar American favorites in a warm, travel-free musical tour. 7 p.m. Dec 17 in Chemeketa Auditorium, Building 6, 4000 Lancaster Dr. Click here for tickets.
Enjoy a big-screen showing of John Hughes’ holiday classic Home Alone, the famously mischievous tale of an eight-year-old left to outwit two burglars on Christmas Eve. Arrive early to visit Santa’s workshop and grab a selfie — Santa will be on site an hour before showtime and photos are included with admission. 7 p.m. Dec 17 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
December 18
Catch a big-screen showing of Elf, the beloved holiday comedy following Buddy (Will Ferrell) as he leaves the North Pole for New York City in search of family, belonging, and a little Christmas spirit. With James Caan, Mary Steenburgen, and a city that needs saving, it’s a joyful favorite for all ages. Arrive early for selfies in Santa’s workshop—Santa and Salem’s own Buddy the Elf will both be greeting guests an hour before showtime, with photos included in your ticket. 7 p.m. Dec 18 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Spirit Night: Milagro Tequila — Raise a glass to the season with a guided tasting flight of Milagro Tequila, led by spirits pro Jason Moore. Begin with a specialty cocktail, then savor a paired dinner designed to bring out the bold character of each pour. 6 p.m. Dec 18 at The Cozy Taberna. Click here for tickets.
Traditional Irish Music, 7 to 9 p.m. Dec 18 at Venti's Cafe and Beer Vault
December 19
Enjoy Winter Warmth, an evening of live music with master pianist David Seamon in a warm, festive setting that welcomes the holiday season and the year ahead. Settle in with great company as his performance fills the space with winter ambiance. Wines and small bites will be available for purchase. 5:30 p.m. Dec 19, at Cristom Vineyards. Click here for tickets.
Traveling Wheelz hosts Holiday/Ugly Sweater Night Open Skate, 7:30 to 10 p.m. Dec 19 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for more info.
Christmas with C. S. Lewis invites audiences into Lewis’s home on Christmas Eve, where he reflects on the moment J. R. R. Tolkien challenged his belief that the Nativity was merely a myth—an exchange that sparked his journey from atheism to faith. As he shares warm, witty, and moving holiday recollections with visiting Americans, Lewis reveals how that conversation forever reshaped his understanding of Christmas. A thoughtful, intimate storytelling experience. 7:30 p.m. Dec 19 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Queen Mother: A Tribute To The Music of Queen — Stomp, clap, sing, and shout... Be a part of the show as "Queen Mother" pays tribute to Queen's music in the space where it belongs, live on stage. Hailing from Seattle, Queen Mother harnesses the Northwest’s best talent to bring these epic songs to life, including Under Pressure, We Are the Champions, Bohemian Rhapsody, and many more. With each show they make the whole room a stage, hoping to draw out your inner “Freddie.” 8 p.m. Dec 19 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets start at $25. Click here for tickets.
December 20
Join Festival Chorale Oregon for an afternoon of traditional carols during Sing We Now of Christmas. This kid-friendly event includes an audience sing-along and a special story for children, with familiar Christmas songs you remember from bygone years, 3 p.m. Dec 20 in Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library. Click here for tickets.
The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas returns. Featuring the Nate Olson Trio joined by the Abiqua Academy choir, this is a special presentation perfect for all ages, 7 p.m. Dec 20 in the Chemeketa Community College Auditorium. Click here for tickets.
Salem Orchestra’s Winter Concert pairs spirited classics with a touch of seasonal magic. Stravinsky’s Pulcinella Suite and Prokofiev’s Classical Symphony set a lively tone before Howard Blake’s score to The Snowman is performed live alongside the film. A warm, enchanting program for all ages. 7:30 p.m. Dec 20 at East Salem Community Center. Click here for tickets.
The Christmas Guitar Summit unites Ty Curtis, Ben Rice, Brandon Logan, and Jake Blair for a high-energy night backed by the horn-fueled power of The PDX Hustle. Expect reimagined holiday classics, standout originals, and plenty of jaw-dropping solos as the Willamette Valley and Portland blues scenes collide. A fiery, full-throttle way to close out the season. 8 p.m. Dec 20 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets start at $25. Click here for tickets.
December 20-21
Celebrate the magic of the holidays with the Premiere Academy of Performing Arts Nutcracker Ballet, 3 p.m. Dec 20 and 21 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Willamette Master Chorus presents a Holiday Concert with the Trail Band Sextet featuring South Salem High School Symphonic Choir, 3 p.m. Dec 20 and 21 at Hudson Concert Hall at Willamette University. Click here for tickets.
Through December 21
Holiday Village fills the fairgrounds with festive music, seasonal shopping, and tasty treats, plus visits with Santa, carnival rides, a tree maze, and more, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, 5:30 to 10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays, through December 21, at Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE. oregonstateexpo.org/magic/ Admission is free. $10 parking.
December 21
Market for the Strange presents Krampus Nacht, an alternative holiday market featuring local artists and creators. Plus, get a photo with Santa or Krampus. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. December 21 at Salem Convention Center. marketforthestrange.com $
December 23
It’s time for a Night at the North Pole with Santa featuring rides, games, and more, 5 to 7 p.m. Dec 23 at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, 101 Front St NE. salemcarousel.org $
It’s a Christmas movie! (Or maybe it isn’t) You can decide while watching a big screen viewing of Die Hard, the action-packed (holiday) classic that takes place during a Christmas Eve takeover of Nakatomi Plaza. Plus, pop into Santa’s workshop for a selfie with Santa himself! He will be in attendance the hour before the show, 7 p.m. Dec 23 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
December 24
Salem Tuba Holiday is an annual tradition of musical merriment featuring players of conical bore instruments: baritone horns, euphoniums, and tubas. The show includes arrangements of popular Christmas carols and holiday songs performed by musicians of all ages from all over the Northwest. Jeff Witt will be the featured vocalist, with John Skelton leading the tubas. Lyrics are projected to support audience members joining in as our community holiday choir. 12 p.m. Dec 24 at Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 day of show. Click here for tickets.
December 24 & 31
Salem’s Riverfront Carousel is offering free rides, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec 24 (and Dec 31) There is a suggested donation of non-perishable food items to support Marion Polk Food Share. Salemcarousel.org
December 27
Saturday Música: James Howard — Known for his award-winning eclectic blend of Blues-Rock and singer-songwriter music (inspired by Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan, BB King, Jeff Beck and Pat Travers), James Howard’s live show is a satisfying mix of virtuoso guitar, soulful vocals, originals, instrumentals, and select covers. 3 to 5 p.m. Dec 27 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE.
December 31
New Year’s Eve Slumber Party — Step into the gilded splendor for a burlesque spectacle unlike any other: a New Year's Eve Slumber Party! This isn't your childhood sleepover—it's an evening where classic burlesque meets luxury and relaxation, wrapped in satin and vintage charm. Expect a lush blend of timeless burlesque striptease, breathtaking circus arts, and side-splitting comedy, all delivered with impeccable taste and glamour. Treat yourself to gourmet snacks and browse an array of curated vendors offering vintage sleepwear, tarot readings, and luxurious treats, setting the mood for a night of indulgence. 6:30 p.m. Dec 31 in The Verona Studio, 189 Liberty St NE. Click here for tickets
Celebrate New York New Year's Eve with party favors, munchies, music, and dancing on a great wood floor. There will also be a “midnight” toast at 9 p.m. (midnight in NYC). 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 31at RJ Dance Studio, 317 Court St NE. $15/person RSVP & Paid by Dec 29. Call 503-363-3341.
Through January 3
Magic of Lights is a dazzling drive-through experience featuring more than a mile of spectacular light displays of your favorite holiday scenes and characters. Through Jan 3 at Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE. Click here for tickets.