Here's a look at what's happening this month...
June 1
Salem Carousel’s 24th Birthday — Celebrate the magic of Salem’s Riverfront Carousel as it turns 24! Enjoy $1 rides all day and stick around at 12 p.m. for cake and a group chorus of “Happy Birthday.” salemcarousel.org
Blippi: Join the Band Tour — Sing, dance, and explore sound with Blippi, Meekah, and their musical friends in this interactive stage experience perfect for young families. Expect music, confetti, and joyful chaos, 2 p.m. June 1 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Salem Philharmonia presents Fate and the Apocalypse featuring Verdi – La Forza del Destino Overture; DeBruyn – Apocalyptic Maiden (world premiere); and Tchaikovsky – Symphony no. 4, 2 p.m. June 1 at East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave. NE. Click here for tickets. There will be a pre-concert talk at 1:15 p.m.
June 5
Live Music — Wind down the evening with Joanna Lee’s soulful sound on the patio at Chemeketa Cellars. Enjoy wine by the glass and unwind with live music in the vineyard setting. 6 to 8 p.m. June 5 at Chemeketa Cellars. chemeketacellars.com
King Youngblood with Lara Lavi — Catch Seattle’s King Youngblood and opening act Lara Lavi for an evening of alt-rock, soul, and storytelling. Expect big vocals, thought-provoking lyrics, and a high-energy performance. 8 p.m. June 5 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Cost: $20 in advance; $25 day of show. salemshg.com
Music & Poetry Open Mic — Sign up in-person beginning at 6:30. Please message us ahead at info@irsalem.com if you will need any special equipment or accommodations, including extra equipment setup or if you are performing as a group. Sets are 10 minutes or 3 songs. No cover. Food and drinks available all night. Two item minimum for audience members and performers. 7 p.m. Thursday, June 5 at Infinity Room.
June 6
Chemeketa's Planetarium's last show of the season is June 6. The theater seats 60 people under a 35-foot dome where realistic images of stars, planets, sun and moon are projected onto the ceiling for visitors to study and enjoy. The current show is Two Small Pieces of Glass and takes place 7:30 p.m. Friday in Building 2, Room 171 on the Chemeketa campus off Lancaster Dr. Use the blue parking lot. Tickets are sold at the door about 15 minutes before show time. Adult tickets $5, Children & Chemeketa students $4. Sorry, no credit cards.
First Friday Art Walk — Explore downtown Salem during the Art Walk where you can admire art, meet local artists, and more, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 6. Pick up a passport at one of the participating businesses. Learn more at salemart.org
Dueling Pianos: British Invasion — The Dueling Hobbits return for a high-energy piano showdown filled with cheeky banter and hits from The Beatles, Queen, Elton John, and more. 8 p.m. June 6 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets start at $25. salemshg.com
Friday Night Roller Skating – Skate into summer with Traveling Wheelz. This themed open skate (this week’s theme is Summer Beach Night) welcomes all ages with beach vibes and good tunes. 7:30 p.m. June 6 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for tickets.
All Ages Improv with Electric Baguette — Enjoy Infinity Room's signature improv style over dinner and drinks. They take your suggestions and turn them into a one-of-a-kind show — each show is a unique experience, 7 p.m. Friday, June 6 at Infinty Room. Tickets are $10 in advance; $12 at the door for this all ages show. Click here for tickets.
June 6-7
Gabriel Rutledge is coming to Salem for three shows at Infinity Room, 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 6 and 7 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 7 (although sold out, or nearly sold out, online, the venue said they will have some tickets at the door. Visit website for waitlist info)
June 7
STRIDE Run/Walks — Although City of Salem recreation programs are limited right now, there is one STRIDE run/walk on the books at the time of print. This event invites runners and walkers of all ages while encouraging fitness and community. Strollers and dogs on a leash are welcome. Bibs are available on event day, 9 a.m. Saturday, June 7, at Bush’s Pasture Park. Click here for details and registration.
Salem Community Garage Sale Day — Run your own garage sale during city-wide garage sale day, June 7, all across Salem.
Celebrate at Salem Capital Pride Parade & Block Party with live music, drag shows, vendors, and more, 12 to 5 p.m. (parade begins at 11 a.m.) June 7. Parade starts at State & Cottage; block party on State between Liberty & Commercial. salemcapitalpride.org
Pentacle Theatre Jo Dodge Acting Workshop — Jo Dodge returns with her acclaimed 11-week acting workshop focused on self-expression and connection through scene work and improv, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays (through August 16) at Pentacle Theatre Rehearsal Space, 197 Liberty St SE. pentacletheatre.org
Chemeketa Cellars Barrel Tasting & 25th Anniversary — Sample wines from alumni and students, enjoy food and live music, and bottle your own Pinot Noir at this unique opportunity to celebrate 25 years of winemaking education in Salem. 1 to 4 p.m. June 7, at Chemeketa Cellars. Cost: $30 (21+), $20 non-drinker, $25 for club members. Click here for tickets.
Celebrate The Goonies 40th Anniversary with a big screen viewing. When two brothers find out they might lose their house they are desperate to find a way to keep their home. They find a treasure map and bring some friends along to find it. They are all out looking for the "X" and trying to get away from a group of bad guys who also want the treasure. 2:45 p.m. June 7 at Salem Cinema. Click here for tickets.
Saturday Música: Robert Meade — singer/songwriter playing his brand of upbeat Americana, rhythm 'n' blues originals and classic of the 60’s to 90’s, 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 7 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE.
Gaiety Hollow Open Garden — Explore the historic home garden of Elizabeth Lord & Edith Schryver during a free casual visit, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 7 at 545 Mission St SE. Click here for more information.
Pollinators in Our Gardens Walk — Celebrate pollinators with a free progressive garden walk featuring plant education, pollinator tips, and garden tours. The event highlights a different focus at each stop. Jun 7, 9 a.m. at Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 10 a.m. at Bush’s Pasture Park, and 11 a.m. at Gaiety Hollow. Click here for more information.
Designate Day at Björnson Vineyard — Enjoy an afternoon of tastings with winemakers Ben Casteel, John Grochau, Chris Butler and Tim Wilson as they present their wines made from Björnson grapes, 1 to 4 p.m. at Björnson Vineyard, 3635 Bethel Heights Rd NW. $30. Click here for tickets.
Live Music: The Easy Targets — Party like it's 1959 as The Easy Targets salute the pioneers of rock n' roll from Elvis, Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry, to the early Beatles, and other gems, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 7 at Ankeny Vineyard 2565 Riverside Dr S. $5
June 7 & 8
MAG Auctions presents Salem Collector Car Auction — View and bid on 300+ classic cars and automobilia, June 7 and 8 at Oregon State Fair and Expo Center, 2330 17th St NE. Admission is $10/day or $15 for two days. Military & First Responders: $5/day. Free for children 12 and younger. Click here to learn more.
June 8
Haley's Heroes Foundation: Run for the Rare — Did you know…1 in 10 people have a rare disease and 50% of those are children. There are more than 7000 known rare diseases, and an estimated 350 million people globally are diagnosed with a rare disease, yet 95% of rare diseases don't have an FDA-approved treatment or cure. This run is a fundraiser that aims to change that. 10 a.m. Sunday, June 8, at Riverfront Park. Click here for details and registration.
Salem Cinema presents National Theatre Live: Dr. Strangelove — Steve Coogan stars in this stage adaptation of Kubrick’s iconic dark comedy, 12 p.m. June 8 at Salem Cinema. Click here for tickets.
Market for the Strange hosts the Goblin City Market. Shop dark and alternative vendors at this eclectic market full of curiosities and creative oddities, 11 a.m. 6 p.m. June 8 at Salem Convention Center. $5 entry. Click here for tickets.
Confluence: Willamette Valley LGBT Chorus wraps its season with “Celebrate.” Celebrating 25 years of community, friendship and acceptance, and the final concert under the guidance of founding Artistic Director, Raymond Elliott, 7:30 p.m Friday, June 6 at First Congregational UCC, 700 Marion St NE. $20. Free for age 12 and younger. Click here for tickets.
Live Music: Gail Gage Jazz Band — Jazz, 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 8 at Ankeny Vineyard 2565 Riverside Dr
Live music featuring Grand Head (Salem-based Hardcore), Lords of Blackpool (Salem-based Rock/Pop), and WyWolf (Salem-based Psychedelic), 5 p.m. Sunday, June 8 at Infinity Room. $10 in advance; $13 at the door. Click here for tickets.
June 10
Eric Ode Preschool Summer Reading Kickoff — Jump, crawl, and sing along with award-winning children’s performer Eric Ode and puppet pal Scratch the Barn Cat in this free, fun, interactive literacy concert for preschoolers, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. June 10 in Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library.
The Beacon Awards — Celebrate the best of past and present high school athletics with the Salem-Keizer community. Honorees include outstanding athletes, coaches, and supporters of local sports, 7 p.m. June 10 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
June 11
Pinot & Pottery Painting — Paint a handmade mug while you sip some wine. Local ceramic artist Taylor Williamson of Stott Mountain Pottery will bring a variety of mugs ready to be painted, 5 to 7 p.m. June 11 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S. $55. Click here for tickets.
June 12
Salem Talks Science: The Big Bang and Beyond — Join physicist and cosmologist Rick Watkins for a beginner-friendly dive into the origins and evolution of the universe. Hosted by Salem Talks Science, this science pub explores galaxy motion, cosmic expansion, and more in a relaxed, engaging setting. 6:30 p.m. June 12 at Venti’s Café. Click here for more info.
Live Music: Lucky Pluckers at Stomp — Enjoy folk-rock in the orchard with the Lucky Pluckers. Grab wine, pizza, and a picnic table—or bring a blanket, 5 to 8 p.m. June 12 at Stomp by Croft Vineyards, 5475 River Rd S. Free; food and drink available for purchase. Call 503-364-3085 to RSVP.
Local Art Auction — Enjoy wine, appetizers, and an evening luck and chance at the Local Art Auction. Proceeds support creative opportunities for youth through the Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion and Polk Counties. 5:30 p.m. June 12 at Illahe Hills Country Club, 3376 Country Club Dr S. $30. Click here for tickets.
ARRIVAL & DREAMS: ABBA + Fleetwood Mac Tributes — Two iconic bands, one unforgettable night. Relive the magic of ABBA and Fleetwood Mac with full-costume tribute bands in a show packed with chart-topping classics, 7:30 p.m. June 12 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. $49.50. Click here for tickets.
Hear You Loud and Queer: An LGBTQIA+ Comedy Show — Calling all queer folks and allies! This show features a stacked lineup of comedians featured in Out Magazine, WIllamette Week, and Portland Mercury’s Undisputed Geniuses of Comedy! Up-and-coming comedian Brian Govender, as well as heavy-hitting show producers Mack Lee and Imani are joining us. Plus, 1st and 2nd place winners of this year’s Willamette Week’s Funniest Five Ally J Ward and Rachelle Cochran to round out the show, 8 p.m. Thursday, June 12 at Infinity Room. $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
June 13
Peak Harvest — Inspired by a seasonal wine flight, Chef Jonathan Jones will unleash his creative genius and cook up a 6-course feast of flavors that celebrates the best of the valley’s bounty paired to perfection with Bryn Mawr wines, 6 to 8 p.m. June 13 (repeats July 11 and Aug 8) at Bryn Mawr Vineyards. $150 per person. Click here for tickets.
Second Friday Ceili — Join the Ceili of the Valley Society for an all-ages evening of live Celtic music by Geraldine Murray, Nancy Conescu and Mikey Beglan, and dancing called by Maldon Meehan. No partner or experience required. The evening betgins with a dance lesson just after 7 p.m. June 13 at VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE. Cost: $10 adults, $5 students, $30 families. Click here for info.
Salem Summer Solstice 5/10K — Cool off with an evening race on flat, scenic trails. Post-race ice cream sundaes included. Proceeds support McKay High School Cross Country, 7 p.m. Friday, June 13, at Minto-Brown Island Park. Click here for details and registration.
Alice in Wonderland — Fall down the rabbit hole with Salem Aerial Dance Company in an adaptation of Alice in Wonderland that blends aerial artistry with surreal storytelling in a whimsical, high-flying production for all ages. 7:30 p.m. June 13 at Chemeketa Community College Theatre Auditorium. Click here for tickets.
Andrew Sleighter started in comedy looking for the perfect funny line to open a biography. Since then, Andrew’s laid-back style and clever writing has won him appreciation from fans and respect from his peers, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 13 at Infinty Room. $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Live Music: Jamila Maries & Nathan Olsen — Vocal and keyboard duo, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 13 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S. $5
June 13-15
Belly Dancer USA 2025 will showcase the talents of dancers from around the country with special guest dancers and instructors from around the world. One of the internationally renowned instructors and performers is Mr Ozgen who will offer workshops on Turkish Oriental and Romani dance and take to the stage as the headliner during the Gala Show 8 p.m. Saturday, June 14. The gala will also showcase dozens of dancers, including both solo and large troupe performances. Gala tickets are $25 each. The competition is also open to the public to view. Tickets start at $20. Click here for tickets.
June 14
Doggie Dash — Formerly WillaMutt Strut, this all-ages walk/run supports the animals at Oregon Humane Society and also includes a pet festival. Open to all registered attendees, the festival features animal-loving local businesses, food trucks, family-friendly activities, a libation station for those 21 and older, and contests with prizes. And yes, it’s dog-friendly, 8:30 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at Riverfront Park. Click here for details and registration.
Ghouls Night Out is an immersive evening of ghost tours, haunted history, tacos, tarot, and community supporting Ghosts of the Grand. From 6–8 p.m., enjoy family-friendly fun with walking tours, face painting, and raffles; from 8 p.m. to midnight, it’s all about dark history, dancing, and ghost hunts in the Grand’s haunted basement. Come curious, come costumed—and maybe leave with a story of your own. 6 p.m. June 14 at the Brick Room at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 181 High St NE. Click here for tickets.
Raise a glass at the 27th Annual Barley Cup Brewfest, featuring craft brews from across the valley. Enjoy brewery tours (12–4 p.m.), vote for your favorite beer, and indulge in food specials as the next brew royalty is crowned. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 14 at Thompson Brewery & Public House. Click here for more information.
Live music featuring Red Spectre (Salem-based hard rock), When The Broken Burn (Salem-based Metal), and Within Caskets (Salem-based Technical Metal), 7 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at Infinity Room. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Saturday Música: Rudolf Korv — Eugene-based songwriter playing Americana, country, folk and everything in between, 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE.
Live Music: Diverseified — a band playing original rock, jazz, and electric violin, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at Ankeny Vineyard 2565 Riverside Dr S. $5
June 14 & 15
Cherry City Roller Derby hosts the 2025 JRDA Open Division Playoffs, where top junior teams battle for a spot at Nationals. Seven games unfold over two days with high-speed action and fierce competition. Bracket winners advance to the JRDA Championships in Colorado. June 14-15 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for tickets.
American Ballet Academy will perform Peter Pan. With energetic music, beautiful costumes, adorable little dancers and artistic advanced dancers the show promises to have something for everyone to enjoy. Profits from the performance will be donated to Marion Polk Food Share. The shows take place 7 p.m. June 14 and 2:30 p.m. June 15 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
June 15
Salem Symphonic Winds presents Symphony No. 5 – Return to Middle Earth, Johan de Meij’s epic Tolkien-inspired symphony, featuring soprano soloist Kurleen George and Festival Chorale Oregon, 3 p.m. June 15 in Rose Auditorium at South Salem High School. Click here for tickets.
You Dad to Be There: An All-Dads Comedy Show for Father's Day — This Father's Day, give Dad the gift that keeps on giggling: jokes! Catch a hilarious lineup of all-dad comedians doing what dads were born to do. All ages but material will not be clean. 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 15 at Infinity Room. $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Father's Day BBQ & Cornhole — Celebrate dad with food and fun, including Smoky BBQ by Chef Cipriano of Dolce Vita Catering and a cornhole tournament, plus live music by Leo Moon from 3–5 p.m. Bracketed Cornhole Tournament starts at 1 p.m., with prizes for dads. It's all happening June 15 at Coria Estates. BBQ plates are $26. Cornhole Tourney entry is $5.
Sunday Música: Leo Moon — Leo Moon is the solo incarnation of actor, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Brian Adrian Koch. California-born and Oregon-raised, Brian has been active in the Portland music scene since arriving in 2000. He is a current and founding member of indie rock band Blitzen Trapper and psychedelic folk duo Dead Lee, 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 15 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE.
June 18
Matt Baker Comedy + Stunt Show is a combination of offbeat comedy with daring stunts in a family-friendly performance that’s equal parts jaw-dropping and hilarious. Escape tricks, bowling balls, and big laughs await, 11 a.m. June 18 in Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library. Free; seating is first-come, first-served.
June 19
Juneteenth Community History Walk — Join a guided or self-guided walk to honor Salem’s early Black residents. This year’s walk traces the story of the Gorman family—once enslaved, later reunited in Oregon. Guided tours leave at 9, 10, 11:15 and 12:15 June 19 from Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE. The walk is free but donations are accepted. Click here for more information.
Black Wall Street: Juneteenth Block Party — Celebrate Black excellence, history, and culture at a community street party with food, music, vendors, kids activities, and more hosted by Salem Keizer NAACP. "Black Wall Street" aims to elevate Black-owned businesses in our community by meeting & supporting the people behind the businesses. Enjoy food, music, history and dancing in the streets. Plus, activities for kids and engagement with community-based nonprofits that make our community strong. 12 to 6 p.m. Thursday, June 19 at the intersection of State & Cottage Streets (east of the Micah building). Learn more here.
Yoga in the Park — Salem Art Association and Common People Yoga host this all-levels flow on the lawn behind Bush Barn, 6 to 7 p.m. June 19 at Bush’s Pasture Park, 600 Mission St SE. Donation-based participation fee. RSVP here.
Live Music: Ships to Roam — Settle in for a relaxed evening with live music, good wine, and vineyard views. The tasting room is open from 4 to 9 p.m. with music from 6 to 8 p.m. June 19 at Chemeketa Cellars. Free and open to all ages. Info: chemeketacellars.com
After nearly six decades, the legendary Nitty Gritty Dirt Band takes the stage for All the Good Times – The Farewell Tour. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate a legacy of Americana, country, and roots music from the three-time GRAMMY® winners behind classics like “Mr. Bojangles.” 7:30 p.m. June 19 at the Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Yoga on the Lawn — Take in a 60-minute yoga class led by Kristen Aubert. After class, gather with the yoga community for a glass of wine on the patio. Wine and food available before and after class, 6 p.m. June 19 at West Hills Vineyards, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW
Drag Time! with RiRi Calienté is a night of dazzling drag entertainment paired with exquisite food and signature cocktails creating sparkly, fabulous fun, 8 p.m. Thursday, June 19 at Infinity Room. $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Click here for tickets.
June 20
Sip & Stroll — Sample wine, beer, and spirits while exploring downtown Salem shops. Cheese pairings at each stop. Proceeds benefit Garten’s local programs for people with disabilities. 4 to 8 p.m. June 20 in downtown Salem. Click here for tickets. Age 21 and older.
Sunset Concert: Daniel and the Blonde — Unwind with breathtaking sunsets, live music, and delicious wines as summer unfolds over Coria Estates vineyard and the Willamette Valley. Experience the authentic sound of Daniel and The Blonde, a duo connected in life, love, and music. They champion "real music"—raw, pure, and beautifully imperfect, reflecting the human journey with heartfelt truth. Daniel’s lifelong passion meets Rumeysa’s discovered voice, creating a powerful duo. Experience their unique blend of reality and passion. 6:30 p.m. June 20 at Coria Estates. Tickets are $15. This is an all-ages event, and children younger than 12 are free. Click here for tickets.
Truth, Beauty, Freedom, & Love – Burlesque Tribute to Moulin Rouge. Lacy Productions brings a bold, bedazzled, and cheeky homage to the famed musical with burlesque, aerial, drag, and cabaret performances. 8 p.m. June 20 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets start at $30. Click here for tickets.
Friday Night Roller Skating – Lace up your skates and throw it back to the early aughts with Traveling Wheelz. This week’s theme is 90s/2000s Night, 7:30 p.m. June 20 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for tickets.
Emma Jonas is a funny Jewish lady from Salem whose hobbies include petting dogs and avoiding eye contact with their owners. Emma has opened for Kate Willett, Jenny Zigrino, and a number of other talents, and has featured on festivals including Tower City, Lysistrata, Savage Henry, Ha Ha Harvest, Upper Left and Last Best Comedy Fest. She writes for The Hard Times, hosts the comedy game show Truth or Dare Live and is a regular performer at Infinity Room in Salem. Please don't talk to her while she's eating, 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 20 at Infinity Room. $15 in advance; $10 at the door. 21 and older. Click here for tickets.
June 21
Make Music Salem: 10th Anniversary Celebration — Enjoy free live music performances, all day long, all around town. Salem’s biggest street music festival turns 10 with even more tunes to mark the summer solstice. Watch for the schedule at makemusicsalem.org
Walk-N-Wag — Leash up your pup and come out to the park for activities for dogs and humans, too, which benefits Willamette Vital Health’s Pet Peace of Mind program and grief care services. Paid registration includes a dog bandana, goodie bag, and door prize ticket,11 a.m. Saturday, June 21, at Minto-Brown Island Park. Click here for details and registration.
Capitol Cruise In — Classic cars, live music, food trucks, and good vibes await at this evening cruise-in, 5 to 9 p.m. June 21 as the Oregon DAS Green Lot, 865 Marion St NE
Gaiety Hollow Open Garden — Visit the historic gardens of Lord & Schryver for a peaceful walk and inspiration, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 545 Mission St SE. Click here to learn more.
Saturday Música: Dylan Crawford — A mix of folk, bluegrass-old country, and jazz-infused-funk-reggae-soul-blues originals, covers, and more, 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE.
Live Music: Mark Seymour & Friends — A combination of acoustic, electric, and bass guitar creating intricate instrumental interplay and silky smooth vocal harmonies of songs from the last 60 years, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Ankeny Vineyard 2565 Riverside Dr S.$5
Make Music Day Karaoke Afterparty — After grooving all day for Make Music Day, head to Infinity Room for food, drinks, and karaoke, 10 p.m. Saturday, June 21. No cover. Click here to learn more
June 22
Superhero Run — Not all superheroes wear capes; some run or walk. Costumes are encouraged at this family-friendly event, which features a free 1-mile fun run and timed 5K/10K races and benefits CASA's advocacy for children in foster care, 11 a.m. Sunday, June 22, at Riverfront Park. Click here for details and registration.
Elsinore Theatre presents Silent Film Sunday: The Circus with live organ accompaniment by Rick Parks on the Mighty Wurlitzer. Wrongfully pursued by the police, Chaplin’s wandering tramp ducks into a big top mid-show. His bumbling attempts to avoid pursuing police officers earn the laughter and applause of the circus-goers. Impressed, the circus ringmaster (Allan Garcia) decides to employ the tramp as an entertainer. In between getting trapped in a lion’s cage and partaking in clumsy high-wire escapades, Chaplin falls for the beautiful show rider (Merna Kennedy), who unfortunately has eyes for a daring tightrope acrobat. G; 1hr 12m. 2 p.m. Sunday, June 22 at Elsinore Theatre. $5. Click here for tickets.
Live Music: Tin Can Alley — A blend of Hot Jazz, Latin Swing and Classic Americana from the blues tradition delivered in the style of a New Orleans street jazz ensemble, 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 22 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S.
June 25
Amazing Bubble Man Family Show — Louis Pearl, the Amazing Bubble Man, amazes kids and adults alike with bubble tricks, science, and humor in a performance that’s part magic show, part chemistry class, 2 to 3 p.m. June 25 in Loucks Auditorium at the Salem Public Library. Free; seating is first-come, first-seated.
June 26-28
Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy returns to Salem. This haunting sequel delves even deeper into the macabre. This time, the Poe Historians bring four new tales from Poe's dark imagination to life, each paired with a fresh selection of classic cocktails. June 26-28 at The BAD Space, 2572 19th St SE. Age 21 and older. Click here for tickets.
June 26
Trivia Night — Grab your cleverest friends and a bottle of wine for a fun, fast-paced evening of trivia hosted by vineyard owner John Croft, 6 to 8 p.m. June 26 at Stomp by Croft Vineyards, 5475 River Rd S. Free but RSVP required. Text/call 503-364-3085
American Idol Finalist Casey James with Jon Fro — Casey James brings rootsy rock and blues to Salem with singer-songwriter Jon Fro opening the night, 7 p.m. June 26 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 day of show. Click here for tickets.
June 27-29
The World Beat Festival is a three-day celebration featuring live music, performances, dragon boat races, food, crafts, and family fun. This year spotlights the cultures of the Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island. Don’t miss Friday Night at the Beat with food, music, and fire dancing (5-10 p.m. Jun 27). June 28-29 at Riverfront Park. Click here for tickets.
June 27
Sip n’ Sizzle — Take in an evening of flavor as Chef Jon fires up the grill for cheesesteaks. With gluten-free and vegetarian options, there's something for everyone to enjoy, 5 to 8 p.m. June 27 at Bryn Mawr Vineyard.
The Problem Party: A DnD Improv Comedy Show — A chaotic group of adventurers—and their even more chaotic improv actors—take the stage for a hilarious roleplaying romp. 8 p.m. June 27 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. $15; $45 for group pack. Click here for tickets.
Put on your best evening wear and hit the roller rink for a grown-up skate night with Traveling Wheelz. This week’s theme is Adult Formal Night. Age 18 and older only. 7:30 p.m. Friday at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Click here for tickets.
June 27
When the lights go out at Pentacle Theatre this summer, the comedy kicks in. That’s the twist in Black Comedy, a one-act British farce by Peter Shaffer. The show flips theatrical convention on its head. When the characters are plunged into darkness by a blown fuse, the stage lights come up—so the audience sees everything the characters “can’t.” The show takes to the stage June 27 – July 19 at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW. Click here for tickets.
June 28
Race to Save the Harvest — Run, walk, hop, skip, or jump your way through this family-friendly race that supports Salem Harvest’s mission to feed hungry families and reduce food waste. There will also be yard games, face painting, community booths, and a celebrity appearance from Ima Oregon Blueberry. 9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 28, at Minto-Brown Island Park. Click here for details and registration.
Join the pop-folk trio PDX Broadsides for a fun, fandom-filled afternoon of live music celebrating science, superheroes, and all things geeky. Known for their witty lyrics and rich harmonies, the band brings a blend of humor and heart to every performance. 2 to 3 p.m. June 28 in Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library. Free
The Oregon Opry brings together three standout Northwest acts—The Lowtimers, Just Clark, and Jeremy Wayne McKern—for a night of raw Americana, heartfelt songwriting, and honky-tonk soul. Expect pedal steel, front porch vibes, and storytelling that hits home in this rootsy showcase of Oregon-grown talent. 7 p.m. June 28 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Cherry City Roller Derby hosts its season finale, CCRD Uncensored, an adult-themed mash-up bout age-restricted to those 18+ where themed dress is welcome. No photos are permitted. 7 p.m. June 28 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Tickets start at $12nin advance. Click here for tickets.
Live Music: Leanne McClellan Band — an eclectic blend of classic rock with a little pop, blues, and some jazz mixed in, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S. $5
June 29
Salem Orchestra proudly presents its fourth annual Side-by-Side Concert, featuring talented student musicians from across the Willamette Valley. This year’s program showcases two of Beethoven’s most compelling symphonies—his lively and often overlooked Symphony No. 4, followed by the iconic Symphony No. 5, known for its unmistakable opening motif and dramatic intensity. In a special collaboration, students will join the orchestra on Beethoven’s 5th, experiencing the energy and momentum of one of classical music’s most celebrated works. This performance highlights the power of mentorship and shared artistry, bringing generations of musicians together on one stage, 6 p.m. Sunday, June 29 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Live Music: Tanner Cundy — End your weekend with smooth tunes and fine wine at this free outdoor performance, 1 to 3 p.m. June 29 at Chemeketa Cellars.
Live Music: Sarah Saul Combo — vocals and jazzy instrumentals, 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 29 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S.
Recurring Events
Tuesdays
Taco Tuesday — Wine and tacos with a view? Yes, please. Head up to Coria Estates for their weekly Taco Tuesday featuring food, music, and beautiful vineyard vistas. 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, at Coria Estates. Click here for reservations.
Wednesdays
Drop in and enjoy the Gaiety Hollow garden at your leisure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Wednesdays through September. Gaiety Hollow is the home, garden, and studio of Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver located at 545 Mission Street SE. It is also headquarters of The Lord and Schryver Conservancy. lordschryver.org
Bricked Up Comedy is a weekly comedy open mic. Sign ups open at noon the day of the open mic. To sign up, send a message to the Bricked Up Comedy Facebook Page. All ages allowed until 10, but material will not necessarily be clean. Sets are 5 minutes. Free but two item minimum for audience members and comics. 9 p.m. May 7 in Brick Room at The Grand Theatre
Thursdays
Salem Poetry Project continues on a weekly basis. Each week will present a featured reader followed by the Infamous Open Mic: 3 poems or five minutes whichever is first. Featured reader begins at 7:00 and the open mic will directly follow, at the Bush Barn Annex, 600 Mission St SE. Parking for the Bush Barn and Bush House is located off of High Street and the Annex entrance is just to the left of the main entrance. For more information, contact Marc Janssen at mrcjanssen@msn.com.