The InstigatorThese five summer fairs and festivals are can’t miss fun for all —
July 6-9
Marion County Fair is an annual celebration of county and community bringing together live music, farm animals, foodie goodness, contests galore and more. This year’s musical headliners are tribute band Bohemian Queen on Friday and country musician Aaron Watson on Saturday. It’s a perfect adventure for the whole family.
July 6 through 9, 2023
Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE
marioncountyfair.net
July 21-23
Spend your weekend perusing the art and crafts of more than 200 local and national artists at the 74th annual Salem Art Fair & Festival. Accompanied by a nonstop lineup of live music and entertainment beginning at 10:30 a.m. daily, plus local food, beer and wine and a kids area with art activities for the whole family, it truly features something for everyone. This year’s headline entertainers are FABBA, a sensational tribute to ABBA at 8:30 p.m. Friday, roots musician Lloyd Jones at 8:30 p.m. Saturday and blues rock trio Inner Limits at 3 p.m. Sunday. Buy your ticket in advance for quickest entry. Funds raised from the art fair support Salem Art Association to support artists, exhibitions, educational activities and other community programs.
July 21 through 23, 2023
Bush’s Pasture Park, 600 Mission St SE
salemartfair.org
Bonus: Salem Art Association members receive free admission to the Salem Art Fair & Festival, so now is a good time to join or renew your membership here.
August 12
Nestled amongst the trees in seven wooded acres near downtown Salem, Englewood Forest Festival is a gathering of art, environment and community that aims to celebrate, educate and support, especially that of the Northeast neighborhood. Browse art and crafts by dozens of vendors. Get hands-on with nature workshops for all ages. Experience music, dance and performances by a variety of local entertainers. The opportunities are endless at this quaint festival that truly embraces community.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, August 12, 2023
Englewood Park, 1260 19th St NE
englewoodforestfestival.org
Fun Fact: Englewood is Salem’s oldest part and was developed by the renowned Lord & Schryver design team.
August 26
Organized by Salem Capital Pride, Salem Pride in the Park is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community with live music and performances, plus an art show, booths featuring local vendors and nonprofits, as well as an array of activities across the park meadow.
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. August 26, 2023
Gerry Frank Rotary Amphitheater at Riverfront Park
salemcapitalpride.org
August 25-September 4
Soak up the fun at the Oregon State Fair where you’ll find concerts, a carnival, crafts and competitions. This family-friendly event aims to highlight all our state has to offer through animals, attractions, arts and more. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the summer.
August 25 through September 4, 2023
Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE
oregonstatefair.org
Photo: Courtesy of Oregon State Fair
This story originally ran in Press Play Salem issue 17 (Summer 2023)
