The InstigatorJanuary 1
Explore nature during free “First Day” hikes on January 1 at Oregon State Parks. Oregon Parks & Recreation Department offers free guided hikes in 21 parks across the state on the first day of the year. In addition to the free hike, day-use fees are waived. Click here to see what parks are included (some require registration)
January 1 through 17
Entries are being accepted for the upcoming Salem Reads event “Childhood Secrets Revealed: A Community Storytelling Event” What did you do as a kid that you never told your parents? Now is the time to come clean and share with the class in this one-of-a-kind live storytelling event. Record your story and send it in by January 17 to be considered for the live event on Friday, February 9. We’re looking for stories that are funny, adventurous, shocking, scary, and more. You choose the tone. Time limit: 7 minutes. Submission information will be available on the Salem Public Library website in late December. Performers announced January 24.
January 2
Starting January 2, Salem Public Library will be modifying its library hours to operate within staffing capacity and resources. The library’s new hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Main Library and 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday and 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday for West Salem. Hours reflect time library is most busy. Learn more here.
January 4
Ed Bennett Quintet — Ed Bennett has long been considered one of the West Coast’s premiere string bass players. Since his arrival in 1990, Ed has become an acoustical force in the Portland jazz community. The fresh sounds of Bennett’s original compositions are be-bop influenced, but unique with twists in their harmonic progressions and unusual forms.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, January 4
Where: Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE
Cost: $18. Click here for tickets.
January 4 & 18
Star Empress 45 Mulan Rouge and the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Willamette Empire invite one and all to join Reign 45 for Bingo on the first and third Thursday of every month. Proceeds raised help to benefit the Reign 45 charities. The fun takes plae 7 to 9 p.m. January 4 and 18 at Southside Speakeasy.
January 5
Salem City Club presents Exploring “The American Dream” with Gen Z. Gen Z, or Generation Z: Those people born between 1997 and 2012; also known colloquially as Zoomers. Five Gen Z panelists will share in a conversational format what the American Dream means to them.
When: 1 p.m. Friday, January 5 (venue opens at 11:30 a.m.)
Where: Dye House at Willamette Heritage Center
Cost: $10. Click here to register.
Salem Auction House hosts a preview of its current sale “Signs of Americana” 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, January 5 at 2828 Cherry Ave NE. The auction closes January 7 at 6 p.m. Click here to view items online.
Good Cop/Bad Cop: A Comedy Roast Show combines a classic roast show with improv and puts the audience right in the middle. With some of the PNW’s best roast comics and improvisors on stage, you’ll get to experience the best burns in Oregon comedy. Hosted by Billy Chambers and Emma Jonas and featuring Brent Lowrey, Imani, Jane Malone and Luke Miller.
When: 9:30 p.m. Friday, January 5
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 21 and older
January 5 & 19
Electric Baguette – All Ages Improv Comedy. Enjoy Infinity Room’s signature improv style over dinner and drinks. They take your suggestions and turn them into one-of-a-kind shows never to be seen again — each its own unique experience.
When: 7 p.m. Jan 5 and 19
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: All ages welcome.
January 6
Spotlight Storytelling: Indigenous Storytelling is a special storytime highlighting the stories, music and culture of the Kalapuya people for young listeners performed by Esther Stutzman of the Kalapuya and Coos tribes, 2-3 p.m. Saturday, January 6, in Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library.
Villians in Vain with Von Doom and Terminal Dusk — metal, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, January 6, at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150. Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Age: 21 and older after 10 p.m. Click here for tickets.
Acting Workshop — Join skilled director and actress Jo Dodge in a fun, hands-on 11-week theater workshop exploring the human spirit. Students participate in improvisation and scene work in a safe, supportive and non-competitive environment. The focus is on individual self-development. This workshop is for all skill levels, from beginners to the most experienced. You must be 18 yrs. of age to attend these classes.
When: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays beginning Jan 6 through March 16
Where: Pentacle’s Downtown Rehearsal Space, 197 Liberty St SE
Click here to register.
Lexi Tucker — 5 to 7 p.m. January 6, at West Hills Vineyard, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW.
Southern Crossing — favorite hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. January 6 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr. S. $5 Cover.
January 6 & 20
Get your skate on with Traveling Wheelz and Cherry City Roller Derby two open skate events. Bring your own skates or rent them from Traveling Wheelz for $5.
When: January 6 and 20. First session 3 to 5 p.m.; Second session 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE
Cost: $10. Get tickets at travelingwheelz.com
January 7, 14 & 21
Family Clay Sunday — Create simple hand-built projects at this no-experience-needed, hands-on, family crafting event. There is a new project for each session. Jan 7 — Coil cup with stamps; Jan 14 — Coil built planters and Jan 21 — Glazing and techniques.
When: Drop in anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. on specified Sundays.
Where: Willamette Art Center, 1820 Silverton Road NE (near the north corner of 17th Street and Silverton Road at the Oregon State Fairgrounds).
Cost: $5 per person per week.
January 8
Yoga + Beer — Begin with a 60-minute, all-levels yoga class led by Kristen Aubert, and then gather in the taproom for a post-class pint with our fellow yogis. Space is limited. Advance registration recommended.
When: 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, January 8
Where: The Bad Space at Santiam Brewing, 2544 19th St SE
Cost: Suggested donation of $5 to $10. Click here to register.
Mondays
Drop-In Improv Class — Looking for a cheap, fun way to grow as a public speaker, build teamwork skills, be a more effective listener or just play pretend without any judgment? Do improv. Infinity Room offers a drop-in class with no prior experience necessary every Monday night. A rotating cast of long-time improvisers will teach you great warm-ups, games and exercises that are just as fun as being on the playground again.
When: 730 p.m. Mondays (Jan 8, 15, 22 and 29)
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St. SE Ste. #150
Cost: $5. Click here for more info.
Age: 16 and older
January 9
Noche de Loteria — Bond over Millenial Lotería while supporting Salem’s Immersion School, St Vincent De Paul.
When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. January 9
Where: Xicha Brewing North, 2195 Hyacinth NE #162
Cost: $5 buy-in to play 4 rounds. All proceeds will go to St. Vincent De Paul Immersion School.
January 9 & 23
Open Mic Night is now happening from 6 to 8 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at Old Zen Wine Bar, 1115 Edgewater St NW. Go listen to local talent and/or try out new material to a crowd (3 songs or a 10-minute set). Age 21 and older. Doors open at 3 p.m.
January 10
Yoga + Beer — Join Yoga + Beer founder, Mikki Trowbridge for an all-levels yoga practice surrounded by its beautiful architecture, murals, and you know, the infamous ghost. After class, the Elsinore will be serving up beverages of your choice (for purchase), including local beers, wines and more. Space is limited. Advance registration recommended.
When: 6 to 7 p.m. January 10
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: Suggested donation of $5 to $10. Click here to register.
January 11
Art Talk with Gary Westford — Oregon Artists Series Foundation presents a talk with Salem artist Gary Westford, who will speak about his life and his works of art in the current exhibit, Miraculous Occurrences in the Library’s Art Hall.
When: 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan 11
Where: Salem Public Library, 585 Liberty St SE
Cost: Free
Tory Ward is a Portland-based comedian who was a semi-finalist in Portland’s Funniest in 2018, performed at the All Jane Festival (’17) in Portland and is the founder of the Undertow Comedy Festival, which takes place in Lincoln City on the Oregon coast. She performs at bars and clubs all over the Pacific Northwest. Portland Latina comedian Julia Corral has been described as the friendliest caustic person you will ever meet. She currently produces The Comedy Corral, and Sorry Not Sorry (Women/NB/LGBTQ), which were both were named as showcases to watch by the Willamette Weekly.
When: 8 p.m. Thursday, January 11
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 18 and older.
Special Trio: David Friesen, John Stowell & Charlie Doggett — Three of the regions finest players join forces for a special one-night-only presentation. David Friesen and John Stowell are some of the most renowned, innovative and forward thinking players of their respective instruments, bass and guitar. This will also mark the first time David and John have shared the stage in 20+ years.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, January 11
Where: Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE
Cost: $18. Click here for tickets.
Winemaker’s Dinner — The Cozy Taberna and Iterum Wines will present a six-course meal that has been thoughtfully paired with complementary wines, enhancing the flavors and creating an unforgettable dining experience. Questions? Email Ava Grant, ava@thecozytaberna.com or text 503-375-8869
When: 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan 11
Where: The Cozy Taberna
Cost: $200. Space is limited.
Age: 21 and older.
Galentine’s Candle Making Class — Create our own lovely candles by choosing your scents, vessels and decorations.
When: 7 p.m. January 11
Where: West Hills Vineyard, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW
Cost: $60. Click here for tickets.
January 12
Get out and dance at the Second Friday Céilí, featuring live music by Channing Dodson, Bob Soper & Zac Léger and dances called by Sam Keator. No experience or partner is needed. There is a free dance lesson at 7:15 included with admission and live music from 8 to 11 p.m. If you can count to three and seven and move from place-to-place, this is for you. It’s a fun form of exercise. Bring water. Don’t like to dance? The music alone is worth every penny (and more!)
When: 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, January 12
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE
Cost: $10; $5 student, $30 family. Click here for more info.
Oregon Symphony in Salem presents Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony — In a program celebrating the legacy of great pianist-composers, Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony unfurls a tapestry of heartfelt melodies and lush romanticism that will make spirits soar. And Conrad Tao showcases his “openhearted vision” (New York Times) as composer of the opening Over and soloist in Haydn’s final piano concerto.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 12
Where: Willamette University
Cost: $37 to $52. Click here for tickets.
Reconnect: Practice & Mala Bracelets — Transition into the new year by planting the seeds of what you would like to cultivate in your life. This class will begin with a short all-levels slow stead flow, then Chantal will guide the process of making mala bracelets and choosing semi-precious stones that support your specific focus for the new year. The candlelit evening will conclude with community connection. Space is limited. Register in advance.
When: 5:30 p.m. Friday, January 12
Where: Resonance Yoga Collective, 367 State St
Cost: $45 per yogi. (Pricing includes the supplies for a mala bracelet) Click here to register.
Soul of Wit Comedy Night with Carl Lee — Headliner Carl Lee was featured on NBC’s Last Comic Standing and toured the US with comedic greats including Ron White, Mo’Nique, Bill Bellamy, and more. Opening acts include “cool dad” Ty Boice, an award-winning actor and director who has headlined for comedy clubs around the region and opened for Caroline Rhea, Pablo Francisco, and more Joining Ty in opening is Abhishek, a sculptor and comedian who comes from the modest, quaint small town of 20.9 million people, Mumbai. After quitting his job doing cancer research, he moved to Eugene where he is a full-time sculpture student at the University of Oregon. He is a regular in the Eugene comedy scene and his comedy is informed by his journey toward becoming an American citizen over the last 16 years and his mother’s disappointment with his life choices.
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. January 12
Where: Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr. S.
Cost: $10 – $40. Click here for tickets.
Wire Monkey Mama with Ace Stardust and The Doug Fury’s — punk, 8 p.m. Friday, January 12, at Infinity Room, 210 Libert St SE #150. Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
January 12-14
Mid-Valley Home Show brings three days of all things home-related under one roof. Meet with the experts. See exhibits showcasing the latest in home products and services. Discover what you need to refresh, enhance, remodel and build.
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, January 12; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, January 13 and Sunday, January 14
Where: Jackman-Long Building at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE
Cost: Free. $5 parking per vehicle
January 12 to February 4
Pentacle Theatre presents Brighton Beach Memoirs — Dreaming of baseball and girls, Eugene copes with the mundane existence of his family life in Brooklyn, his formidable mother, his overworked father and his worldly older brother, Stanley. Throw into the mix his widowed Aunt Blanche and her two young (but rapidly aging) daughters and you have a recipe for hilarity, served up Simon-style. (Source: Concord Theatrical).
When: 7:30 p.m. Jan 12-13, 18-20, 25-27, Feb 1-3 and 2 p.m. Jan 14, 21, 27-28.
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW
Click here for tickets.
January 13
Get your skate on with Traveling Wheelz on January 13 at Kroc Center, 1865 Bill Frey Dr. The first session is 3 to 5 p.m.; Second session 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Bring your own skates or rent them for $5. Cost: $10. Get tickets at travelingwheelz.com
Greta Matassa Quartet — In the Pacific Northwest, where she built her career, Greta Matassa wins wide acclaim; eight times, the readers of Earshot, the Seattle jazz magazine, have voted her the best jazz vocalist in the Northwest. And lest we forget the friends she’s bringing along. Diana Ross’s touring pianist George Mitchell, one of the northwest’s leading bassists Clipper Anderson, and sensational drummer Charlie Doggett. Having them in Christo’s jazzy little lounge is quite a treat.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, January 13
Where: Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE
Cost: $20. Click here for tickets.
Marcella Arguello — Marcella is a stand-up comedian, writer and actor whose comedy knows no bounds; she eagerly discusses any and every topic that tickles her. From dating short guys — because she has no other options at 6’2’’ — to being mistaken for a man, her Latinx identity, her take on race and gender, and wild stories and situations she’s gotten herself in and out of.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, January 13
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: All ages show but material will not be clean.
A new event! Moth and Flame monthly makers market comes to Venti’s Cafe downtown from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second Saturday of the month. There will be 25 different makers showcasing their talents spread out through the upper, ground floor and and beer vault. Our first market is happening on January 13.
Ronnie Kay — 5 to 7 p.m. January 13, at West Hills Vineyard, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW.
January 14
Yoga + Wine — Gather for practice in the tasting room that begins with a 60-minute, all levels, yoga class, then stay for a glass of wine. Please bring your own yoga mat.
When: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, January 14
Where: Coria Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE
Cost: Suggested donation of $5 to $10. Click here to register.
January 17
Salem Reporter hosts a Town Hall on Gun Violence — A panel of experts will share with the community the facts about surging gun violence in the community. This program will pull back the curtains on this safety threat – and share how any citizen can make a difference.
When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, January 17
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: Free but registration required. Register here.
Yoga + Beer — Recurring on the third Wednesday of each month, this class begins with a 60 minute alll-levels yoga class. Stay after for a post-class beverage and/or food. Sign up or show up, we’ll have space for you.
When: 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 17
Where: Gilgamesh Brewing, 2065 Madrona Avenue SE
Cost: Suggested donation of $5 to $10. Click here to register.
January 17-19
Northwest Agricultural Show — See the newest in equipment, products and services to keep your small, medium or large-scale farm or ranch operation running at peak performance. With more than 100 exhibitors and 20+ seminars.
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan 17; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19
Where: Oregon State Fair & Expo Center
Cost: $5 parking per vehicle. Click here for more info.
January 18
Kerry Politzer Quartet featuring George Colligan on drums, Joe Manis on sax and Garrett Baxter on bass. Kerry Politzer is a Portland-based jazz pianist, composer, and educator. She is on the music faculty of Portland State University, and she has taught at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Swing University, the University of Portland, and the Oregon Jazz Workshop. Kerry received a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Piano from the New England Conservatory of Music, where she studied improvisation and composition with the late jazz guru Charlie Banacos. In May 2023, she earned a Master of Music in Jazz Studies from Rowan University. Kerry is an alumna of the 2003 and 2005 Banff Jazz Workshops.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, January 18
Where: Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE
Cost: $18. Click here for tickets.
The Scientific Method: A Solo Comedy Play by Cat Hayes — Based on real-life events, The Scientific Method is a solo comedy play that follows Catherine, a 13-year-old Catholic School Kid (CSK). After her brother’s locker is set on fire, but his Bible is unburned, Catherine is convinced a miracle has happened. Embarking on a quest to prove the existence of God using science, Catherine’s story is told by five different characters – Nanna Thelma, Catherine Hayes, Patrick Hayes, Carrie Wilkes, and Jesus Christ, Son of God. Writing and acting by Cat Hayes. Directed by Paul Stein.
When: 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan 18
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 18 and older
January 19
Salem City Club presents A Preview of the Upcoming Oregon Legislative Short Session featuring the majority and minority leadership of the House of Representatives.
When: 1 p.m. Friday, January 19. (Venue opens at 11:30 a.m.)
Where: Dye House, Willamette Heritage Center
Cost: $10. Click here to register.
Truth or Dare Live: A Comedy Game Show — Welcome to Truth or Dare Live, a stand-up comedy game show where comics reveal the truth and the audience picks the dares! Hosted by Emma Jonas, Truth or Dare Live challenges comics to get real, get weird, and get real weird!
When: 9:30 p.m. Friday, January 19
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 21 and older.
January 20
Yoga + Beer — Begin with a 60-minute, all-levels yoga class in Xicha’s taproom before they open to the public, and then stay for a pint of beer and/or some delicious food. Space is limited. Advance registration recommended.
When: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, January 20 (and February 17)
Where: Xicha Brewing North, 2195 Hyacinth St NE #172
Cost: Suggested donation of $5 to $10. Click here to register.
Peking Acrobats — For the last 32 years, The Peking Acrobats have redefined audience perceptions of Chinese acrobatics performing daring maneuvers while displaying technical prowess in trick-cycling, precision tumbling, juggling, somersaulting, gymnastics and ore. They push the limits of human ability, defying gravity with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility, and control.
When: 7:30 p.m. January 20
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $29+ Click here for tickets.
Peter Antoniou: ‘Psychic’ Comedian — From amazing the judges on America’s Got Talent, to headlining in Las Vegas, to selling out shows in London’s West End, Peter Antoniou’s mind-reading skills have astounded audiences around the globe. Combining razor-sharp British wit with a stunning ability to know exactly what you are thinking, Peter’s shows are interactive and unforgettable. Join him as he reads minds and tickles funny bones, telling jokes and fortunes live onstage.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, January 20
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE
Cost: $20. Click here for tickets.
Paint a Winter Bouquet with We Make Art during a 2-hour step-by-step painting class where no experience is needed, plus all materials are included. Beverages available for purchase during the class.
When: 12 to 2 p.m. January 20
Where: Ratchet Brewery, 2475 25th St SE
Cost: $35 per person. Click here to register.
Mark Seymour — 5 to 7 p.m. January 20, at West Hills Vineyard, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW.
Daniel Jones with Jordan Taylor Roach and David Stefanik — Singer/songwriters, 730 p.m. Saturday, Jan 20, at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150. Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Age: 21 and older. Click here for tickets.
January 21
Joke Lab with Tony & Emma — Hey comedians! Got material to work on? Looking to improve your stage presence and mic technique? Just wanna hang out with other comedy weirdos? Then don’t skip Joke Lab! Otherwise, you’ll get an F, and not the fun kind. Every third Sunday, Tony Meyer and Emma Jonas welcome you to Infinity Room to practice stuff and exchange feedback. It’s chill and there’s no crowd, just comedians. There will be non-alcoholic beverages for sale and you can bring your own snacks. Water is free. No cover, no audience. Comedian observers are welcome but this is not a show. All ages welcome but material does not need to be clean.
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, January 21
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Click here for more info.
January 25
Ryan Hamilton — Ryan’s one-hour Netflix stand-up special, Happy Face, has been reviewed as “the special you can’t watch enough times.” This has been followed by a wealth of television appearances and a non-stop headlining tour. Armed with the unique perspective of growing up in rural Idaho to become a favorite in the New York stand-up comedy scene, he’s one-of-a-kind. He’s been named one of Rolling Stone’s Five Comics to Watch; and his recent appearances include The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and Conan, as well as opening spots for Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan.
When: 730 p.m. Thursday, January 25
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $39+ Click here for tickets.
Idit Shner Quartet featuring Keith Brown on piano, Garrett Baxter on bass and Dae Bryant on drums. An active performer of jazz and classical music, Idit has played in various distinguished venues in the United States and abroad, such as The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and Lincoln Center in New York.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, January 25
Where: Christo’s Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE
Cost: $18. Click here for tickets.
Age: All ages welcome.
January 26
Marc Cohn — After winning a Grammy for his soulful ballad “Walking in Memphis,” Marc Cohn solidified his place as one of this generation’s most compelling singer-songwriters, combining the precision of a brilliant tunesmith with the passion of a great soul man. Rooted in the rich ground of American rhythm and blues, soul and gospel and possessed of a deft storyteller’s pen, he weaves vivid, detailed, often drawn-from-life tales that evoke some of our most universal human feelings: love, hope, faith, joy, heartbreak.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 26
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $39+ Click here for tickets.
Brad Wenzel’s offbeat one-liners, dry delivery, and unassuming presence are what set him apart from other comedians. Brad has made three stand-up appearances on Conan and more recently performed on Netflix is a Joke Radio. His debut comedy album Sweet Nothings was released on Jack White’s rock label, Third Man Records and can be heard on SiriusXM. Paste Magazine described Brad’s 2023 special, joke. joke. joke. as “Watching Wenzel feels like hanging out with your funniest, weirdest friend; it’s relaxing and utterly enjoyable” Paste also listed jok:e. joke. joke. as one of the 20 best comedy specials of the year.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, January 26
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
January 26-27
Sip and sample your way across the culinary delights of Oregon at First Taste Oregon. It’s not just about what you eat and drink (although there is definitely an opportunity at this event) but First Taste also features entertainment, including two stages of music; art; vendors; and more. Individual tastes are sold separately by exhibitors and can be purchased directly at the event. Prices start at $1 per taste. Many exhibitors will offer a complimentary taste of their specialty for free.
When: 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan 26 and 12 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan 27
Where: Jackman Long Building at Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE
Cost: $9 to $40 in advance; $10 to $50 day of event. Oregon State Expo Center may charge a parking fee. Click here for tickets.
Van Halen Tribute Concert — 8:30 p.m. Jan 26 and 27 at The Yard Food Park, 4106 State St. Cost: $25.
January 27
Roller Derby Double Header — Join Cherry City Roller Derby in an action-packed, double-header featuring its Renegades in bout 1 and the 8 Wheel Assassins in bout 2 as they take on Tacoma’s Dockyard Derby Dames. Family-friendly, food and beverages available.
When: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, January 27
Where: The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE
Cost: $12+ in advance; $15+ at the door. Children 5 & younger are free. Click here for tickets.
The International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA), brought to you by Varsity Vocals, is the largest international a cappella tournament exclusive to universities worldwide. Varsity Vocals allows young singers to interact, compete, learn from each other, get feedback from the pros, and perform in fantastic global venues. The collegiate competition includes more than 440 groups worldwide with over 50 events. Featuring:
- Divine All Treble A Cappella | Oregon State University
- Formal Houseparty | Linn-Benton Community College
- The Green Note | Portland State University
- Headband | Willamette University
- Mind The Gap | University of Oregon
- OSU Outspoken | Oregon State University
- Power Chord | Oregon State University
- Up Top | Willamette University
When: 7:00 p.m. Saturday, January 27
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $21+ Click here for tickets.
Shuli Egar is a nationally touring headliner who took a one-week audition in New York and turned it into a 15-year career as a writer, producer, and on-air personality for The Howard Stern Show. Shuli has joined the ranks of the podcasting world and has three popular podcasts: The Shuli Show, The Miserable Men Show, and The Uncle Rico Show. Shuli’s double album “Shulogy” debuted at #1 and #2 on the iTunes Comedy Charts.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, January 27
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 18 and older
Soul of Wit presents a night of comedy with Gabriel Rutledge featuring Tyler Boeh. Gabriel Rutledge is a past winner of both the Seattle International Comedy Competition and The Laughing Skull Comedy Festival in Atlanta, Gabriel has made numerous television appearances including Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham, Nickelodeon’s Nickmom Night Out, Laughs on FOX, and Inside Joke with Asif Ali streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Tyler Boeh started his stand-up career in his hometown of Portland (Oregon), but after placing in the finals of comedy competitions in Seattle, San Francisco, Boston and at the World Series of Comedy in Las Vegas, Tyler made his way to Los Angeles. Within a year of his move to Hollywood he had established himself at the top comedy clubs, completed work on two television pilots, and Tyler’s debut comedy album, “Carpool Companion” was chosen as LaughSpin Magazine’s album of the year when it was released in 2012.
When: 7:30 p.m. January 27
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE
Cost: $20 to $45 (VIP) Click here for tickets.
Age: All ages are welcome but the material is not clean.
The PDX Radio Ponies and Bekkah McAlvage — Some of the best guitar and mandolin picking you can hope to find in the Pacific Northwest. The evening will be rounded out with the original bluegrass and country-folk music stylings of Bekkah McAlvage, a staple of the Southern Oregon bluegrass and folk scene, January 27 at McMenamins Boon’s Treasury, 888 Liberty St NE. Cost: $10
The Feel Good Ya-Ya’s — 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, January 27, at West Hills Vineyard, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW.
January 28
Salem Symphonic Winds presents All That Jazz featuring Randy Kem. Join the Salem Symphonic Winds, for an afternoon of jazz-inspired music that will delight your ears and move your feet. The concert will feature a performance of the Concerto for Saxophone by Michael Kamen, a stunning piece written for and premiered by the legendary saxophonist David Sanborn.
When: 3 to 5 p.m. January 28
Where: Rose Auditorium at South Salem High School
Cost: $5 to $25. Click here for tickets.
January 29
Wine down with Yoga + Wine. This event begins with a 60-minute practice led by Rhonda indoors. After class stay for post-class sips with fellow yogis.
When: 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, January 29
Where: Chemeketa Cellars, Northwest Wine Studies Center, 215 Doaks Ferry Road NW
Cost: $5 to $10 suggested donation. Click here to register.
Chemeketa Community College’s Acclaimed Artist Series presents The Baltimore Consort, which was founded to perform instrumental music of Shakespeare’s time. Although later joined by a singer, the group’s experience of rehearsing purely instrumentally forged its identity as an ensemble dedicated to exploiting the diverse sound colors offered by gut- and wire-strung, plucked and bowed strings, and transverse and end-blown flutes and recorders, capped reeds and percussion. Enjoy this journey through time with instrumentation from around the world when The Baltimore Consort brings fantastic melodies to the Chemeketa stage.
When: 7:30 p.m. Monday, January 29
Where: Chemeketa Community College Theatre Auditorium, 4000 Lancaster Dr NE, Building 6
Cost: $15 to $30. Click here for tickets.
January 31
Yoga + Libations — Celebrating the places and spaces that make Salem awesome, one yoga class at a time. This yoga event will begin with a 60-minute, all-levels, yoga class in the Dye House, led by local yoga instructor, Mikki Trowbridge. Sign up or show up, we will have space available for you.
When: 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 31
Where: Taproot Old Mill Cafe at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE
Cost: Suggested donation of $5 to $10. Click here to register.
