July 1

Musical Audition Workshop — Join longtime Pentacle directors and actors Deborah Johansen and Jeff Witt for this exciting opportunity to develop your audition skills. The Audition Workshop will focus on what to expect during the audition process, how to pick the right song, and how to nail the audition.
When: 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, July 1
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW
Cost: $5 per participant. Register here. Limited to 25 enrollees, age 14 or older.

Showtigers // Fawkesglove // Superchurch: 8 p.m. July 1 at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE. Cost $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.

Rich Swanger: Americana, 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, July 1 at West Hills Vineyard, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW

Danny Shaw, Jesse Tumolo, Brooklyn Del: 6 p.m. Saturday, July 1, at The BAD Space, 2544 19th St SE. Cost is $7 in advance; $10 at the door for this all-ages show. Get tickets here.

July 2 & 30

Enjoy Yoga + Mimosas 10 to 11 a.m. Sunday, July 2 and 30, at Eola Hill’s Legacy Estate Vineyard, 1600 Oak Grove Road. Take an opportunity to gather for practice in this beautiful space. A Sunday morning all-levels flow class, followed by community time, perhaps accompanied by a brunch beverage, or a glass of wine of your choice. Suggested donation of $5-$10 per yogi for practice. Click here to register.

July 4

Celebrate independence day at the 4th of July Spectacular with Alabama. This family-friendly event will feature a carnival, food, a concert and a free 20-minute fireworks show to wrap up the night.
When: 3 to 11 p.m. Tuesday, July 4
Where: Oregon State Fairgrounds
Cost: Free for fireworks. Concert tickets starting at $67. VIP Zone is $5
Info & Tix: oregonstatefair.org/spectacular

July 6

Luna Vista with Southtowne Lanes — 7 p.m. July 6, at Infinity Room. Tickets are $5 for this all-ages show. Click here for tickets.

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.
When: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday, July 6; Friday, July 7 and Saturday, July 8; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 9
Where: Oregon State Fair Grounds
Cost: $9 adult; $5 youth and senior. Sunday only youth age 12 and younger are free. Purchase in advance for a discount at marioncountyfair.net 

July 6 & 20

Kids can create their own t-shirt and zine with artist Jessica Rehfield as part of Salem Art Association’s Zine Workshops happening at CreativiTee, 110 Commercial St NE. There are two sessions 8:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 6 for ages 8 to 11 (accompanied by parent or adult) and 8:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 20 for ages 12 to 15. Cost is $25. Limited space.
Sign up for July 6 here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/631781053137
Sign up for July 20 here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/631790832387 

July 7

The First Friday Art Walk aims to promote local businesses, emerging artists and engagement with our downtown community. Taking place from 5 to 8 p.m. on the first Friday of every month, it is a free, leisurely opportunity to explore the heart of Salem and discover new shops, artwork, crafters and more. Each month includes a variety of businesses offering specials, art to view, activities and more. Reinforcing the encouragement of participation, there is also a raffle. To take part, pick up a passport from any of the participating businesses and collect stamps from a number of locations. Then turn in your completed passport to enter a raffle to win a prize (usually a basket overflowing with items from all the participating businesses). Find all the details at facebook.com/SalemArtWalk. Sign up to The Playlist for a highlight of what’s happening for the Art Walk.

City of Salem’s First Friday Concert Series features Don Edwards and Tom Gilberts Trio 8 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 7 at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater at Riverfront Park. Don is a guitarist, singer and songwriter whose music ranges from edgy hard rock to energetic acoustics with lyrics that tell relatable stories. 

Forgotten Fantasies presents The Independence Day Comedy Riffing Explosion! — Join host and curator Michael Garcia and special guests Avalon Leonetti, Emma Jonas, Sean O’Neil, Dave Lowery, Chad Johnson, Ryan Danley, James Wood, Lacie Wood, Tony Meyer and more as they roast clips from old-school action movies, political ads, and video Americana.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, July 7. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room
Cost: $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 18 and older

Take in A Drunken Night Out! where comics tell the jokes then get drunk then joke about whatever topics the crowd chooses.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, July 7
Where: The BAD Space
Cost: $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 21 and older

Summer Uncorked Concert Series features Dancehall Days, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 7 at Eola Hills Legacy Vineyard. Bring your own chairs or blanket and stake out a spot on the lawn for an evening of entertainment and enjoyment! Purchase your tickets online in advance for extra savings. Cost: $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Discount for wine club members. VIP reservations are available. Click here for tickets.

Documentary Screening: The Boys Who Said NO! — As the war in Vietnam raged, one of the largest and most successful youth-led resistance movements in American history was growing at home. Hundreds of thousands of young men opposed to an unjust war said NO to being drafted into the military, risking up to five years in federal prison. Their individual courage and collective nonviolent actions helped end a tragic war and the draft. Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Judith Ehrlich, The Boys Who Said NO! tells for the first time the inspiring story and impact of the draft resistance movement.
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, July 7
Where: Loucks Auditorium | Salem Main Library, 585 Liberty St SE
Cost: Free. Seating is available on a first-come, first-seated basis.

Take in a night of music with Aaron Wolf + Pedro World Citizen. Aaron is making a name for himself with his blend of hip-hop, reggae and folk that features an original style and meaningful lyrics. 6 p.m. Friday, July 7 at The Yard Food Park. 

July 8

Midsummer Art Festival on the River — Shop and connect with a variety of Salem’s artisan vendors while enjoying live music 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 8 at the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater in Riverfront Park. There will also be food trucks (for all) and face painting (for the kids, although we don’t judge!) Click here for more info.

Shop The Fussy Flea Market featuring vintage goods, crafted items and tasty treats. This family-friendly event includes dozens of vendors and is recurring 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second Saturday of the month through September at 3170 Commercial St SE. Next market is July 8.

H.A.R.T. Horsepower Classic Car Show — See more than 100 classic cars, enjoy food and sweets, meet Miss Oregon, watch demos of adaptive riding and more. HART is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to helping empower and strengthen those with physical, cognitive, emotional and social challenges through equine-assisted activities.
When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 8
Where: West Hills Stable and Vineyard, 3065 Orchard Heights Rd NW
Cost: Free for spectators. Register a cart for $15-$20. Click here for more info.

Cheers to beers and Santiam Brewing’s annual summer festival Rock the Caskbar, featuring two stages, seven live bands, guest cask ales, beer, wine, cider, mixed drinks and more. Featuring live music from JFK (8 p.m.); Rhythm & Business (6 p.m.); Sunwell (4:45 p.m.); Steve Wilkinson (3:15 p.m.); Lords of Blackpool (1:30 p.m.); Tom Owczarzak (12:45 p.m.) and Rebecca McDade (12 p.m.) Cost is $25 for show plus 2 drink tokens; $20 for show only (no drink tokens) Click here for tickets. The fun begins 12 p.m. Saturday, July 8 at Santiam Brewing. 

Grapes and Grooves — Sit ‘n sip or get up ‘n groove while listening to music by Bailey Hyde, McKayla Marie, Rustic Valley Acoustic and The Boondock Boys. And should you get peckish from all the dancing, there will be food carts so you can grab a bite, plus wine, of course.
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 8
Where: Zenith Vineyard, 5657 Zena Road NW
Cost: Free to $100. Click here for tickets.

Reptile Man — Richard Ritchey, “The Reptile Man,” will amaze and awe audience members by sharing fascinating information about the many reptiles and amphibians he brings to show, including a king cobra, a rattlesnake and a giant python. Doors open 15 minutes prior to the show. Seating is first come first seated.
When: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, July 8
Where: Loucks Auditorium | Salem Main Library, 585 Liberty St SE

Sunwell with Honeybender & Flares — 6:30 p.m. July 8 at Infinity Room. Tickets are $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Click here for tickets. All ages show.

July 8 & 22

Makeup & Mimosas Drag Brunch — Hosted by Salem’s own RiRi Calienté, this mid-day show features a curated collection of amazing drag talents and delicious vegan brunch, 12:30 p.m. July 8 and 22 at Infinity Room. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for this 16 and older event. Click here for tickets for July 8 and July 22.

July 8 & 29

Enjoy the beauty of nature during Open Gardens at Gaiety Hollow, 545 Mission St SE, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 8 and July 29. On July 8, see artists of all skill levels working in a variety of mediums creating art “en plein air” as part of Paint & Write the Town organized by Artists in Action, along with music by Trio St Cecilia. On July 29 there will be music by Recorder Consort. Admission is free, but donations are always welcomed. Click here for more info.

July 9

See the Broadway Dreams Showcase. Directed by Spencer Liff (So You Think You Can Dance) this one-night-only show is created uniquely for the performers who are participating. It’s a celebration of local talent bringing musical theater to life.  6 p.m. Sunday, July 9 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Tix: $12 to $20 at enlightenedtheatrics.org/tickets/

Zinsters Body Doubling —  A body double is a friend or partner who works simultaneously, either in the same room or virtually through videochat platforms. Join in for a casual zine-making with Promethean Skool 3 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, July 9 at IKE Box Café, 299 Cottage St. NE. Bring any supplies, or just yourself, and join us for a zine-making session. Zines can be copied for inclusion in the September Zine Show at Salem Art Association. Register here. This session is for people ages 18 and older.

Shimmy your way down to the Gerry Frank Amphitheater at Riverfront Park on the second Sunday for Let’s Dance, a family-friendly night of dancing to music from the 50s, 60s and 70s. DJ Freddy Ruiz, Jr will be spinning the classics while you dance under the stars. There will be food trucks on site so you can grab a bite. Dancing happens 7 to 9 p.m. July 9, August 13 and September 10. Gates open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person; cash at the gate. Proceeds support Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion & Polk Counties; Center for Hope and Safety and Salem Family YMCA. Click here to purchase in advance.

Artist Reception with David Jandron — Meet the artist whose work is currently displayed at Infinity Room. Portland’s David Jandron is a self-trained artist, recovering drug addict/alcoholic, and a full-time single parent. All work posted has been completed since March 2021, when David went through a stylistic evolution. The paintings speak to the internal battle between the voices of the flesh and the spirit. These pieces provide a lens into the struggles he has experienced, most of which occurred in the 3 years pre-dating the stylistic change. These experiences include battles with mental illness, surviving domestic violence, divorce, overcoming alcohol /drug addiction, the loss of loved ones, the loss of employment, the loss of a co-parent to drugs, and now having full custody of 2 tiny humans. There will be a reception 1 to 3 p.m. and Q&A at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 9 at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE. Complimentary snacks; no restaurant or bar service available. No cover charge.

Ron Lynch: Crapshoot! + Stand Up — Two amazing shows featuring Ron Lynch (Bob’s Burgers, Conan, Home Movies, Dr. Katz & so much more) Bundle tickets for both shows for $35 online and at door.

“Crapshoot!” is a random show that happens in the order that the audience determines. They say what happens next by pulling a slip of paper out of a hat, and reading what it says. 7 p.m. July 9 at Infinity Room. All ages welcome. (Note: material is not necessarily clean) Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Click here for tickets.

Stand-Up Comedy with Ron Lynch & Special Guests — Ron Lynch has been performing comedy for over three decades, and is considered one of the forefathers of alternative comedy. Featuring special guests Seth Milstein, Emma Jonas, James Wood & Billy Chambers, 9:30 p.m. July 9 at Infinity Room. 21 and older. Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Click here for tickets.

July 9-10

Salem Cinema presents Ziggy Stardust & The Spiders From Mars — One of the most iconic performances in the history of modern music, David Bowie’s retirement of his Ziggy Stardust alter ego in front of 5,000 fans at London’s Hammersmith Odeon was captured on film by award-winning director D.A. Pennebaker on July 3, 1973. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of this event, the original, uncut version of the film has been restored in 4K and with a 5.1 theatrical mix and will feature never-before-seen performances with legendary guitar player Jeff Beck. ZIGGY STARDUST AND THE SPIDERS FROM MARS: THE MOTION PICTURE 50TH ANNIVERSARY is the closest audiences will come to being there on that unforgettable night 50 years ago. [UK. 1973. Directed by D.A. Pennebaker. in English] When: 3:15 and 6 p.m. Sunday, July 9 and 7 p.m. Monday, July 10
Where: Salem Cinema
Cost: $15 in advance; $18 day of event. Click here for tickets.

July 11

Sense of Place: Opening Reception with the Artists — Oregon Artists Series Foundation (OASF) hosts an opening reception for Sense of Place, recent landscape paintings by four Oregon artists. Through the paintings of Eugene artists Margaret Coe and Jon Jay Cruson, Nancy Lindburg working in Salem, and Matthew Dennison in Portland and the North Oregon Coast, this exhibit explores and depicts specific places and the relationships of those artists and their environments. The exhibit is complemented by a second show in the Art Hall at the Salem Public Library. Meet the artists and connect with your art-loving friends at this free event.
When: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 11
Where: Level 2 Gallery in Salem Convention Center
Free, please RSVP to: oregonartistsseries@gmail.com

Join The Pen & Sword for a hands-on Stage Combat Fundamentals Class covering three falls, the basics of stage combat safety, slaps, push/pull, grab/shove, principles of control and chokes.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. July 11
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW
Cost: $25 per participant. Click here to register.
Age: 14 or older.

Free Tuesday Gallery Talk with Guest Curator Christy Wyckoff, 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 11 in the Study Gallery and Print Study Center at Hallie Ford Museum of Art, 700 State St. For more information, visit willamette.edu/arts/hfma, or call 503-370-6855.

July 13

Noche de Baile -Bachata — Want to learn how to dance Merengue? You can at Xicha North where they are hosting a group dance lesson by Orlando Pacheco, with music by DJ Cavaliere from 5:30 to 8:30 July 13. All skill levels are welcome.

Tyler John Hartman with Minda Lacy+Luke Anthony and Zach Clarke — 7:30 p.m. July 13 at Infinity Room. Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Age 21 and older after 9 p.m. Click here for tickets.

Salem Folklore Community hosts Scandinavian Dance Lessons — Longtime Salem folk dancer Allen Paulson will be teaching two sessions of Scandinavian dance. Come to both lessons or to just one and learn some of the most popular Swedish couples dances including the Schottische and the Snoa. All experience levels are welcome.  No partner is necessary. Live music with fiddles and accordions.
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, July 13 (repeats August 10)
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE
Cost: Free
Info: Email salemfolklore@gmail.com with questions

Alley Concert featuring The Manny Martinez Jazz Trio performing a variety of traditional and contemporary jazz music, 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday, July 13 at Rudy’s Steakhouse, 350 Chemeketa St NE. Tables are available by reservation only starting at 6 p.m. Note: There is a $50 cover charge per person, which will be applied as credit towards your bill. Make your reservation here.

July 13-​​16

Theatre 33 presents Working for Crumbs by Kate Danley. As part of it’s New Play Summer Festival, Theatre 33 presents Working For Crumbs by Kate Danley. Grace and Amy are living for the crumbs of their soul-sucking job.  But when calamity strikes and their boss chokes on an oatmeal raisin cookie, it creates a domino effect of destruction that brings down the corporate house. 9 to 5 meets Weekend at Bernie’s in this quick-witted, sidesplitting farce! Directed by Susan Coromel. Click here to read our feature story from Press Play Salem 17.
When: 7 p.m. July 13-15 and 2 p.m. July 15 & 16
Where: M. Lee Pelton Theatre, Willamette University.
Cost: Suggested donation is $15, but no one will be turned away. Reserve your spot at www.theatre33.org to receive a reminder about the performances. 

July 13 & 27

Salem Art Association and Common People Yoga are joining together to host special outdoor yoga sessions. These are 60-minute Vinyasa Yoga Flow class led by Lorissa Addabbo of Common People Yoga are good for both beginners and advanced students.
When: 6 to 7 p.m. July 13 and 27 (and August 10 and 22)
Where: Bush Barn Art Center & Annex, 600 Mission St SE
Cost: By donation. Space is limited. Reserve your spot here.

July 14

Get out and dance at the Second Friday Ceili. Ceili of the Valley Society welcomes musicians Bronnie Griffin, Preston Howard Wilde & Bob Soper and caller Bruce Kenny 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.
When: 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, July 14
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE
Cost:  $10; $5 student, $30 family. Click here for more info.

Get On Your Feet Friday! A partnership between Willamette Valley Road Runners and Salem Main Street Association, On Your Feet Friday! encourages people to get active and have fun while exploring downtown Salem in a scavenger hunt-like walk/run. Each month features different checkpoints. Click here for our Press Play Story
When: Starts at 5:45 July 14 (recurring August 11)
Where: Salem Convention Center sculpture garden

Salem Movies in the Park presents Puss in Boots: The Last Wish — When Puss in Boots discovers that his passion for adventure has taken its toll and he has burned through eight of his nine lives, he launches an epic journey to restore them by finding the mythical Last Wish. (2022, PG, 1 hour 42 mins) To make the most of your experience, arrive early to snag the best viewing spot and don’t forget to bring a blanket or low-back chair. Food and beverages are welcome, but no alcohol. Pack a picnic, or feast from one of the on-site food carts.
When: Friday, July 14. Movies begin soon after dusk.
Where: Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater at Riverfront Park
Cost: While films are free, donations are welcome.
Info: salemmoviesinthepark.com

Twilight In The Vines — Join Eola Hills at Legacy Estate Vineyard for a seated four-course, catered dinner by Better Than Mama’s while enjoying the sounds of live music by Orvil and Mile.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 14
Where: Eola Hills Legacy Estate Vineyard
Tickets: $95. Click here to register.

Investigation and Collaboration: After their month-long collaboration as Artists in Residence  Katy Vigeland and Corrine Loomis Dietz will share at an artist talk and reception 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 14, at Salem Art Association’s Bush Barn Art Center. Click here for more info.

Rhythm & Flow Vol. 3 — Rhythm & Flow features the best Artists and DJs line up (90s/2000s theme), 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 14 at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE. Cost is $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets. 

Boundless Joy Grimiss Wire Monkey Mama: high energy and groovy tunes, 8 p.m. Friday, July 14, at The Bad Space, 2544 19th St SE. Cost is $12 in advance. Click here for tickets.

BlackSmith Neighbors: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 14 at Venti’s Cafe & Beer Vault

July 14-16

The City VS City Stand-Up Comedy Smackdown is taking place at The Yard Food Park, 4106 State St. 16 cities and 50 comics from around the country will perform in a bracket-style judged competition for civic comedy bragging rights. Hosted by Seattle International Comedy Competition finalist Sam Miller. No cover for each show, but $20 suggested donation per person is recommended.

Thursday, July 13: Off the Thunder Dome, 8:30 p.m. 

Friday, July 14: Prelims City VS City “South Teams,” 6 p.m. 

Saturday, July 15: Championships, 8:30 p.m.

July 15

Take in a night of music with legendary LA punk band X and special guest The English Beat, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 15 at Elsinore Theatre. Tickets available at www.elsinoretheatre.com

Shine your ride for the 14th Annual Rust O Rama happening July 15 at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. Organized by Cherry City Bombers, this car show is open to American Pre-1965, traditional customs, hot rods, rat rods and more. The event also includes live music, a swap meet, a charity raffle and more. Tickets: $5; additional fee to enter car show. Info: facebook.com/CherryCityBombersCC

Jordan Cerminara — Co-producer of The Art Critique Comedy Show where comedians analyze & auction thrift store art, Jordan Cerminara currently manufactures humor right outside of Portland, Oregon—exports include IRL stand-up, VR comedy experiences in partner with FlipsideXR, goofy ass analog collages, and good ol’ fashioned comic strips for the Seattle-based Scarfff Comics (an underground comix anthology newspaper). Featuring hilarious local talents Tina Hogstrom and Tony Meyer.
When: 8 p.m. July 15
Where: Infinity Room
Cost: $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 21 and older.

The Vindicators: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 15 at BeeHive Station Food Pod

July 18

Englewood Forest Festival & Salem Cinema present a Reel Change For Our Community Benefit Screening of Redwood Highway. Filmed in Southern Oregon, Redwood Highway is a sincere and heartfelt story about a woman who runs away from her retirement village to chase a dream.

Living in a comfortable retirement community in Southern Oregon, estranged from her family, unsatisfied with her surroundings and generally not happy about life, Marie (Shirley Knight) represents all of those wonderful, resilient people who lost someone far too young. In order to confront an earlier heartbreaking event and attend her granddaughter’s wedding as an unexpected guest, Marie decides to journey 80 miles on foot to the coast of Oregon to see the ocean for the first time in 45 years. Along the way, she encounters an extraordinary cast of characters, including a kind woodworker named Pete (Tom Skerritt), who help to heal her heart, and ultimately, she discovers that you’re never too old to learn something about life and about yourself. [ United States. 2014. Directed by Gary Lundgren. in English ]

When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 10
Where: Salem Cinema
Cost: $15 in advance; $18 day of the event

July 20

Grab your fedoras and put on your dancing shoes for Havana Nights where there will be live music, an authentic Cuban dinner, raffles, dancing and more. This event is a fundraiser for Salem Dream Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to equip and empower children and families living in generational poverty to succeed in life through education, mentorship and food security.
When: 6 p.m. Thursday, July 20
Where: Cubanisimo Vineyards
Cost: $75. Click here for tickets.

July 21

PRIDE Comedy Show featuring some of the funniest queer comics of the PNW. Hosted by Mama Fi. 7 p.m. Friday, July 21, at The BAD Space, 2544 19th St SE. Cost is $12 in advance. Click here for tickets.

Summer Uncorked Concert Series features Brian James & The Great Unknown 6 to 8 p.m. At Eola Hills Legacy Vineyard. Enjoy live music, local food trucks and epic vineyard views. Bring your own chairs or blanket and stake out a spot on the lawn for an evening of entertainment and enjoyment! Doors open at 5 p.m. Purchase your tickets online in advance for extra savings. Cost: $20 per person online ($25 at the door) Click here for tickets.

Wild Ire (cd release party) w/ Foamboy & Sadgasm — Local legendary alt-rockers WILD IRE release their new CD with special guests Foamboy & Sadgasm, 8 p.m. July 21 at Infinity Room. $10 in advance; $15 day of show. Click here for tickets.

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 the quickest entry. Funds raised from the art fair support Salem Art Association to support artists, exhibitions, educational activities and other community programs.
When: July 21 through 23, 2023
Where: Bush’s Pasture Park, 600 Mission St SE
Info: salemartfair.org

July 22

Caakes presents Laughs & Lyrics, a showcase of the best comics and hip-hop artists around, 7 p.m. Saturday, July 22, at The BAD Space, 2544 19th St SE. Cost is $10 in advance. Click here for tickets.

MIG Fest returns to bring a day of punk and ska music to Minto Island Growers, 3394 Brown Island Rd S, on Saturday, July 22. This year’s lineup includes MONKEY (ska/rock/reggae), The Bandulus (traditional ska, reggae, and soul), Cut-Rate Druggist (punk rock duo), Los Mal Hablados (Latin skacore) and 1876 (Pow Wow punk rock). Get full details about the bands at the MIG Fest website. Tickets are $20 for ages 13 and older; $15 for ages 5-12. Free for ages 4 and younger. Limited to 275. Click here to purchase. 

Noche de Rock con Sin Documentos: rock en Español, 7 to 10 p.m. July 22 at Xicha Brewing North

Drag artists Saint Syndrome and Nicole Onoscopi bring you live vocals and piano, mixed with comedy and storytelling. Don’t miss this spectacular night of drag, music, and comedy! Please tip your performers!
When: 7 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 22
Where: Infinity Room
Cost: $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Early show is 16+; Late show is 21+

July 22-23

Theatre 33 presents a Pop-up Reading of The Great Bub by Nora Douglass — It is 1968 and three high school buddies, Bub, Dev and Louis, are eager to play army and “join in the fun” in Vietnam. They have made a pact to enlist together the day after graduation. Fourteen-year-old Mud, Dev’s little sister, Bub’s pet and Louis’ nemesis feels left behind. With an often-absent mother, she finds herself having to care for Grammy, her ever-loving and equally feisty grandmother who is beginning to show signs of forgetfulness. Only Louis comes home from Vietnam, injured, disillusioned and angry. Mud’s grandmother ultimately disappears into her dementia, but it will be Grammy who manages to reach beyond the grief and confusion holding both Mud and Louis back. When & Where: 2 p.m. July 22 at Capitol Auto Pavilion, 783 Auto Group Ave NE and 2 p.m. July 23 at Rogers Music Center at Willamette University. Reserve your spot at www.theatre33.org to receive a reminder about the performances.

July 23

Happy Anniversary, Salem on the Edge! The local fine art gallery is celebrating three years in the heart of downtown Salem. Pop in to give your best wishes between 1 and 3 p.m. July 23. They will serving wine and treats, plus there will be music and lots of art, of course.

Salem is the host city (for a third year!) of the IRONMAN 70.3 Oregon. More than 2,400 athletes will compete in a 1.2-mile downriver swim in the Willamette River, a 56-mile bike ride through Oregon’s wine country and a 13.1-mile run in Minto Brown Island Park. Spectators are welcome to gather and cheer on the athletes on June 23 at Salem’s Riverfront Park. Click here for more info.

July 27

Tony & Friends Comedy Show — Salem comedian Tony Meyer is turning 36, and we all know you only turn 36 once. To celebrate, He’s putting together a lineup of some of his hilarious comedy friends from around the PNW! Come for the great comedy, stay for the karaoke-fueled after-party on Salem’s brightest stage. Let’s party, sweet 36 style! The show begins at 8 p.m. July 27 at Infinity Room. Cost is $12 in advance; $15 at the door for this 21 and older show. Click here for tickets.

Maryland-based singer/songwriter Eli Lev is making the world a smaller place, one song at a time. Eli pens lyrics and melodies for everyday enlightenment—songs that resonate because they’re heartfelt, earthy, and offer the wisdom he’s gained through lifelong travel and self-discovery. His latest project, an EP called ‘Walk.Talk.Dance.Sing,’ was inspired by the events of the pandemic and explores the range of emotions that we all went through as a society and individuals. Don’t miss the chance to catch him play in Salem — 8:45 p.m. July 27 at Westside Station.

July 28

Salem Movies in the Park presents Black Panther: Wakanda Forever — The people of Wakanda fight to protect their home from intervening world powers as they mourn the death of King T’Challa. (2022, PG-13, 2 hours 41 minutes) To make the most of your experience, arrive early to snag the best viewing spot and don’t forget to bring a blanket or low-back chair. Food and beverages are welcome, but no alcohol. Pack a picnic, or feast from one of the on-site food carts.
When: Friday, July 28. Movies begin soon after dusk.
Where: Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater at Riverfront Park
Cost: While films are free, donations are welcome.
Info: salemmoviesinthepark.com

Dylan Crawford: Acoustic Crawford plays acoustic guitar and sings, with occasional stomp box for rhythm. He performs originals and covers ranging from Folky/Blue-grassy/Old Country, to Jazzy, Bluesy and Reggae, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 28, at Stomp by Croft Vineyards, 5475 River Rd S. Note: No outside food or beverages. Info: www.croftvineyards.com

Wine & Watercolor with Elisa Mack Art and create a cacti painting. Explore your creative side and enjoy some ocal wine while you paint a couple of cute cacti. No experience is necessary; artists of all levels are welcomed and encouraged.
When: 6 p.m. Friday, July 28
Where: Chemeketa Cellars
Cost: $40. Click here to register.

The Florida Show is a comedy show with stand-ups who are Florida-grown and Oregon re-homed. You’ve heard the myths surrounding Florida Man but these comedians have Florida Man Dads — see whether they’re worse for wear and how they fit in among your mountainous terrain and near-constant cloud cover. Featuring Kyle Adams, Thomas Lundy, Aimee Sinclair, Emily Wirth, Roland Mechanik and host Chad Johnson.
When: 9:30 p.m. Friday, July 28. Doors open at 9 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room
Cost: $15 in advance; 15 adv/20 at the door. 21+ show. Click here for tickets.

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 show is a unique experience.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, July 28
Where: Infinity Room
Cost: $10 online; $12 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: All ages.

July 29

Celebrate your inner child during Gilbert House for Grown-Ups, a 21-and-older event that lets you play in some of your favorite Gilbert House exhibits while enjoying indoor and outdoor entertainment, free eats, and local beer, wine and cider (for purchase). Proceeds support the programs, projects and mission of the museum. Tix: $20 in advance; $25 at the door at acgilbert.org. 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 29 at Gilbert House Children’s Museum, 116 Marion St NE. 

Cost: $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.

Queer Artists Series: 2SLGBTQIAP IN FOCUS with Eric Braman “Prayer to the Pines” — Eric Braman (they/them) is a Queer poet, playwright and storyteller who finds regular inspiration in the natural world around them. Join them for an evening of newly sprouted works inspired by the many landscapes they have called home, including the evergreen giants of the Pacific Northwest, mountains of Alaska, and fresh waters of Michigan. Eric will encourage the audience to connect through reflection, conversation, and question. 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday, July 29 at Bush Barn Art Center. Click here for more info.

All Will Suffer with Alamance and Vice of Us — 6:30 p.m. July 29 at Infinity Room. $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Age 21 and older after 9 p.m. Click here for tickets.

July 30

World-renowned blues guitarist Carvin Jones returns to Salem with his ultimate guitar experience, 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 30 at Salem’s Historic Grande Theatre, 187 High St NE. Cost: $25 to $75. Free for age 12 and younger. Info: www.carvinjones.com

Barre3 Summer Series — Try a free Barre3 class on the upper lawn at West Hills Vineyard. After class, gather your friends and check out the tasting room, order lunch or enjoy a glass of wine.
When: 11 a.m. Sunday, July 30
Where: West Hills Vineyard, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW
Cost: Free. RSVP here.

Uniques 5th Annual Sunday Funday Custom Car Show is an indoor and outdoor show that will feature a Car Hop Competition, live music and deejay, raffle and giveaways, trophies and awards. All custom cars or trucks are welcome. See classics and muscle cars, hot rods and mini trucks, lifted trucks and low riders, euros, SUVs, motorcycles and more.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 30
Where: Oregon State Fairgrounds.
Cost: $15. Free for age 13 and younger.

On Exhibit —

AT 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 and is open 12 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Cost to explore is $8, $5 for seniors and free for educators, students 18 and older and youth 17 and younger. Admission is free for everyone on Tuesdays. For more information, visit willamette.edu/arts/hfma, or call 503-370-6855.

Through August 12
Jim Hibbard: Back in View — Jim Hibbard (American, 1936-2022) was an important Northwest artist who, after a 30-year career of exhibiting and teaching in Portland, established a new home and studio in Guanajuato, Mexico, where he continued to work productively almost until his death in 2022. This focused survey exhibition makes his Mexican work available to American audiences for the first time as well as revisits work from his earlier Portland years. 

Through August 26
Tom Prochaska: Music for Ghosts — This retrospective exhibition explores the career of longtime Portland artist Tom Prochaska. Well known for his open-ended narrative works, Prochaska has developed a body of work that often merges dreamlike memories with a dark sense of humor. Figures in desolate landscapes, sitting in cafes, or playing instruments populate his paintings and prints and take form in his paper mâché sculptures. Prochaska has lived and worked in Portland since 1978. He taught at the Pacific Northwest College of Art from 1988 until his retirement in 2012.

AT LEVEL 2 GALLERY

Level 2 Gallery at the Salem Convention Center is curated by the Oregon Artists Series Foundation. Located on the second floor of the center, it features changing exhibits of work by established and emerging artists of the region. The Gallery is accessible Monday through Friday during regular business hours, during special events or by appointment by calling 503-589-1700. Info: www.oregonartistsseries.com 

July 7 through Sept 14
Sense of Place: Four Artists’ Perspective — Sense of Place brings together four Oregon artists who look at real and imagined locations through different lenses.  Through their eyes, Place can be an area with definite or indefinite boundaries or areas within a particular spot or locality.  A Sense is an awareness or recognition of something; the stimulus may be subjective and the entire process may be real – or mental and intellectual.

Through the paintings of Eugene artists Margaret Coe and Jon Jay Cruson, Nancy Lindburg working in Salem and Matthew Dennison in Portland and the North Oregon Coast, this exhibit explores and depicts specific places and the relationships of those artists and their environments. It also examines how humans interact with the natural and built environment and the ways that locations and places have an impact on people.

The works of art collectively reflect the subjective senses of the artists reacting to places ranging from the isolated Dakota prairie of Nancy Lindburg’s youth, to the Pacific Northwest highways that Jon Jay Cruson explores, to Margaret Coe’s elegant Italian cityscapes, and the lush Oregon fauna living close by Matthew Dennison.

The paintings create or preserve memorable experiences that make each place distinctively different.

AT ART HALL @ Salem Public Library

A year-round gallery space under the guidance of the Salem Public Art Commission, the Art Hall at the Salem Public Library features the Salem Reads Art Exhibit each February as part of Salem Reads: One Book, One Community. During the rest of the year, the Oregon Artists Series Foundation will present curated rotating exhibits featuring regional artists. 

July 7 through Sept 14
Sense of Place: Four Artists’ Perspective — This show brings together four Oregon artists who look at real and imagined locations through different lenses. It is a companion to the exhibit on display at Level 2 at Salem Convention Center.

AT 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 & Annex at 600 Mission St. SE. Visit the center 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 12 to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. There is no charge to visit, but donations are accepted. Info: 503-581-2228 or visit salemart.org. 

Through July 2
Iconoclast: Steph Littlebird — Steph Littlebird ​is an artist, author, curator and enrolled member of Oregon’s Grand Ronde Confederated Tribes. Steph earned her B.F.A. in Painting and Printmaking from the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA) in Portland, Oregon, she currently lives and works in Las Vegas. Iconoclast explores the history of Indigenous representation in American culture and ways to reclaim stories told about us, not by us. By altering these media icons we reverse the power dynamic and question the biases and ideologies embedded in them. Reception: 4 p.m. Saturday, July 1

Through July 27
Ripple Effect — Ripple Effect is an invitational sculpture exhibition co-curated by Kentaro Kojima, Stephanie Robison and Benjamin Mefford. Reception: 4 p.m. Saturday, July 1

Through July 30
Salem Salon: I ♡ Salem — In conjunction with the Salem Art Fair & Festival, see work of all mediums by regional artists in this non-juried show hung salon style that highlights the theme I ♡ Salem. Reception: 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, July 1

AT SALEM ON THE EDGE

From fine art, up-and-coming artists, graffiti muralists and more, Salem on the Edge features work by PNW artists in a variety of media for purchase and in rotating exhibits. Stop in and visit at 156 Liberty St. NE. Info: salemontheedge.com. 

Through July 29
The July Group Show is a beautiful exhibition of work featuring all the artists represented by Salem on the Edge, plus an additional 11 invited guest artists.

The gallery’s represented artists are Seth Allen, David George Andersen, Chelsea Beaudrie, Patrice Cameron, Sarah Ciampa, Dayna Collins, Ron Conrad, Brian Hobein, Heather Jacks, Aron Michael Johnston, Robin Kerr, Katia Kyte, Deamion Lee, Rebecca Mannheimer, Zachary McRae, Paul Meuse, Michael Orwick, Aimee O’Will, Sarah Sedwick, Monte Shelton, Zue Stevenson, Matthew Shoki Tanabe and Melanie Weston. Invited artists are Lisa Brinkman, LeRoi Espiriquetzal, Jennifer Foran, Chloe Frydenlund, Izzy, Jennifer Kapnek, Lisa Lazer, Lester Maurer, Shannon Ross and Tammy Jo Wilson.

At Gallery 444

At Gallery 444, located within Elsinore Framing at 444 Ferry St. SE, see The Essence of Spring Art Show, a collaboration with Artists In Action featuring works that conceptualize spring and/or its essence, during April and the May Flowers Invitational during May. Info: 503-581-4642, elsinoregallery.com

July 7 to 29
The Art in Miniature Show highlights artworks 12″ by 12″ or less including framing. Reception 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 7.

At 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, a 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 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturday and located at 1313 Mill St SE. Cost to explore is $10. $8 senior, $6 student and youth ages 6 to 17. For more information, call 503-585-7012 or go to willametteheritage.org.

Through October 7, 2023
Willamette Heritage Center presents To Your Health — Through the most recent global pandemic, many have started to think about public health in new ways.  What does it mean to be healthy?  How do we as a society promote health in our community?  In this heritage invitational exhibit, WHCC asked museums and community organizations throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley to share an artifact and its history to help us piece together the story of what it has meant to be healthy in the past and how that has changed over time.

Partner Organizations:

• Bush House Museum
• Independence Heritage Museum
• Linfield Anthropology Museum & The Linfield University Archives
• Linn County Historical Museum
• Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health
• Polk County Museum
• Silverton Country Historical Society
• State Library of Oregon