Carlee WrightHere’s a look at what’s happening in Salem this May…
May 1
Honor the power of workers, community, and collective action. From the fields to the frontlines, from classrooms to workplaces, May Day belongs to all. Listen to music, hear from speakers, and take your place in a space celebrating resilience and solidarity. Starting at 11 a.m. May 1, at the Capitol Mall State Park. Click here for more info.
Head downtown for the First Friday Art Walk, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 1. Click here to see who’s participating.
Pacific Islanders: Navigators of the Sea — World Beat Gallery opens its latest exhibit where you can learn about the Pacific Islands through their art, dance, music, and settlement as explained by people from this enchanting area of the world, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 1at World Beat Gallery.
Called “The female voice of the Spanish guitar” by Opera World Magazine, Andrea González Caballero, delivers an evening of outstanding Spanish guitar. 7:30 p.m. May 1 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theater. All ages welcome. Click here for tickets.
Traveling Wheelz brings a themed skate night to the floor and this time, it’s all about band tees. Roll to a mix of favorites, show off your shirt, and settle into a couple hours of easy, music-driven laps, 8 to 10 p.m. May 1 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Get tickets here. (Sign up early as this event often sells out!)
El Rodeo Flow brings you a night full of Latin vibes, hip-hop energy, a mechanical bull, exclusive merch, special guests, and sounds by Inferno & Friends, starting at 10 p.m. Friday, May 1 at MexiYaki. Click here for tickets.
Through May 2
South Salem High School presents Clue — This iconic mystery story, based on the classic board game and the beloved film, is set on a dark and stormy night and asks, “Whodunit? And how?” On stage: Apr 30-May 2 at 1910 Church St. SE. Tickets: saxondrama.ludus.com
May 2
Yoga + Wine — Take in wine country views with a 60-minute all-levels yoga class led by Rhonda Backmann, followed by a glass of wine with friends, 10 a.m. Saturday, May 2 at Kuenzi Family Vineyard, 7919 Spring Valley Road NW. Click here to register. (suggested donation of $10 per yogi)
Sheep to Shawl — Experience the magic of wool fiber processing at the Willamette Heritage Center’s Sheep to Shawl festival, a family event filled with woolly wonder where you can watch skilled shearers remove the wool from sheep, spinners as they transform the fluffy fleece into beautiful yarn, and weavers and other fiber artists as they create gorgeous fiber treasures right before your eyes. There will be plenty of fun activities to keep the whole family entertained, including live animal visiting, children’s activities, fiber artists, living heritage demonstrators, live music, food and drinks, games and shopping. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Willamette Heritage Center. Click here for schedule of events. PS: The artists of Studios at the Mill will open for visitors 1 to 4 p.m. May 2 during Sheep to Shawl.
Bubble Man turns something simple into something surprising, blending science, play, and a little stage magic. Led by Louis Pearl, who has spent more than 30 years performing around the world, this show pulls audiences in from the very first moment. 2 p.m. May 2 in the Chemeketa Community College Auditorium. Click here for tickets.
Saturday Música: Forest Bailey — Renowned for his captivating finger-style guitar, Forest blends tapping and percussive techniques to craft a sound far bigger than a single instrument should allow. 3 to 5 p.m. May 2 at Coria Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE
May the Farce Be With You: A Comedy Show Not About Star Wars featuring Dave Williams, Sarah Levy, Hannah Cubbage, Rick Quaresma, and James O’Neil, and hosted by Dash Thompson. Go ready to laugh—force knowledge not required. 7 p.m. May 2, at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. All ages welcome. Click here for tickets.
Star Wars Party — Join the Rebellion and start your night with a special viewing of the original “despecialized” 1977 theatrical release of Star Wars. After, DTW takes the stage with 11 musicians to fill the room with LIVE Cantina and Star Wars themed music (including a killer rendition of Duel of Fates). Don your best Star Wars costume for a chance to win our costume contest along with some sweet prizes while we keep themed drinks flowing all night long. 6 p.m. doors, 6:30 movie, 9 p.m. music Saturday, May 2 at The BAD Space, 2572 19th St SE. Click here for tickets.
Equinox 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA with a day built around the wines and people behind the region. The afternoon features educational panels at Lingua Franca, followed by an evening Grand Tasting at Zenith Vineyard with wines from across the AVA and food from local chefs. A silent auction adds to the evening, with proceeds supporting the Eola-Amity Hills Winegrowers Association. It’s a chance to spend time with the producers and better understand what defines this corner of the Willamette Valley. Grand Tasting begins at 4 p.m. for premier entry, 5 p.m. general admission, Saturday, May 2, at Zenith Vineyard. Click here for tickets.
Oregon Pageant will crown Mrs. Oregon and Miss Oregon for America Strong Pageant, a preliminary competition to the Mrs. America and Miss for America Strong Pageants. With guest performances by Divisi, and celebrity host Emily Duvall. 4 p.m. May 2 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
May 3
The Spring Pop-up Boutique awaits! Fine teacups, jams and jellies, notecards, hankies, vintage pieces, tussie mussies, jewelry, and more! Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a gift for Mother’s Day, there’s something for everyone. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 3, in the Solarium at Deepwood Museum & Garden. A portion of all proceeds benefits Deepwood’s preservation and programs.
Flute, clarinet, and piano come together in the Camerata Musica next free concert. The Garcia-Eccleston-Shields Trio will perform two works by Camille Saint Saens. Other composers on the program are Francis Poulenc, Miguel de Aguila and Valerie Coleman. 2:30 p.m. May 3, at Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library.
May 4
See Granite Rapids Moon from director Kenneth Cran, a screening to benefit Oregon School For The Deaf. A happily married father of two, shaken by a message written in a birthday card for his daughter, abruptly leaves his family for a week-long hike through the Grand Canyon. Following his solo trek, we see his memories of an earlier trip through the Grand Canyon with a different woman. The film will be presented with open captions. This family-friendly romantic drama is the first narrative feature to shoot the majority of its footage inside the rim of the Grand Canyon. 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 4 at Salem Cinema. Click here for tickets
Star Wars Day Celebration — Celebrate Star Wars Day with a special screening of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back and relive the iconic adventure on the big screen. Costumes encouraged. Lightsabers optional. The Force? Required. 7 p.m. May 4, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. All ages welcome. Click here for tickets.
May 5
First Tuesday Music & Poetry Open Mic invites performers of all varieties to take the ballroom stage. Musicians, bands, poets, and all other performers…sign up and share your talent! Hosted by Matador Hamilton and Danny Shaw of Giantess. 7 p.m. May 5, at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. No admission, all ages. Sign ups open with doors at 6:30.
May 6
Just For Fun Singers bring a lighthearted evening of familiar tunes and feel-good moments to the stage. Known for sharing music across the community, this volunteer chorus leans into joy, connection, and a little bit of playful charm with their spring program, A Little Nonsense. It’s the kind of concert that keeps things easy, warm, and genuinely fun. 7 p.m. May 6 at Chemeketa Community College Theatre Auditorium. Click here for tickets.
May 8-30
Pentacle Theatre presents The Lost Virginity Tour by Cricket Daniel is about friendship, heartache, regrets and first loves. Take a journey down memory lane with these 4 ladies with turns toward the unexpected as each recounts an introduction to sex in often hilarious but sometimes harrowing detail. Directed by Karen McCarty. On stage May 8 to 30 at Pentacle Theatre. Click here for tickets
May 8
Blippi is coming to your hometown in the all-new Be Like Blippi Tour. This brand-new interactive adventure invites families to put on their orange glasses and unlock the spark of curiosity inside us all—showing that everyone can Be Like Blippi! 6 p.m. May 8 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Live Music: Inner Limits Band — Bringing blues, funk, and rock with a solid groove to the vineyard with originals as well as unique arrangements of songs you know and love! 5:30 p.m. May 8 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S. $5
Peak Harvest: A 6-Course Pairing — Inspired by a seasonal wine flight, Chef Jon will unleash his creative genius and cook up a feast of flavors that celebrates the best of the valley’s bounty. Ingredients will be harvested at their ‘peak,’ paired to perfection with our wines. The menu changes every month…6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 8, at Bryn Mawr Vineyards. Click here for tickets.
Sip & Paint Night offers a relaxed way to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend, whether you’re bringing Mom or carving out a night for yourself. Guided by artist Ann Kuenzi, guests will create watercolor flowers with all materials provided and no experience needed. Your ticket includes a drink and a charcuterie spread, with space limited to keep it small and easygoing. 6:30 p.m. May 8 at Kuenzi Family Vineyard, 7919 Spring Valley Rd NW. Click here to register.
Volcano: A Science Comedy Show — Ben Miller blends science and stand-up in a show that moves from volcanoes to cookies without missing a beat. A former scientist-turned-comedian, he brings quick humor and offbeat curiosity to the stage, shaped by years spent performing in New York and beyond. 8 p.m. May 8 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets. This show is recommended for ages 18+
Polyrhythmics sound originated in Seattle’s underground deep funk scene combining impossibly tight grooves with bold brass and hypnotic percussion that showcased elements of R&B, progressive jazz, and Afrobeat which defined the instrumental group’s early era sound. 7 p.m. Friday, May 8, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Traveling Wheelz hosts the Special Event Dance/Jam Skate Lesson, 7:30 to 10 p.m. May 8 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Get tickets here. (Sign up early as this event often sells out!)
May 9
STRIDE 5K Run/Walk heads to Bush’s Pasture Park with a relaxed course that moves across both paved and soft trails. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome, making it an easygoing way to get out and move through one of Salem’s favorite spaces. It’s part of a monthly series that keeps things local and low-key. 9 a.m. May 9, at Bush’s Pasture Park. Click here to sign up. $10
Salem Parks Foundation invites the community to Take a Walk in the Park. This two-mile stroll with purpose supports the Eco Earth. Along the route, participants stop at stations to collect stamps, enter a prize drawing, and pick up a cookie at the finish. The walk supports the Eco Earth restoration effort, with a group photo planned at the globe at noon. Free to join, with donations encouraged. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. May 9 at Salem’s Riverfront Park.
Pentacle Theatre is casting for A Sentimental Journey: Songs for the Homefront — a fun USO-style review and 2027 Season Reveal Celebration. Casting calls for 6–8 male and 6–8 female roles (actors of all ages welcome). Interested in auditioning? Prepare 1–1.5 minutes of a song from the 1920s, 1930s, or 1940s. Bring tap shoes if you’d like to be considered for tap numbers! Auditions take place 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at Pentacle Theatre’s downtown rehearsal studio, 197 Liberty St SE. Learn more here. (A Sentimental Journey takes place July 23–25, 2026)
Saturday Música presents the soulful sounds of Geoffrey Louis Koch, a Eugene-based singer-songwriter known for his rich blend of folk, atmospheric indie rock, alt country, and cinematic textures. 3 to 5 p.m. May 9 at Coria Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE
Richard Marx is a Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer whose career has spanned four decades of chart success and creative reinvention. With over 45 million albums sold, one billion streams, and fourteen No. 1 singles to his name (including “Right Here Waiting,” “Hazard” & “Hold On to the Nights”), Marx is the only male artist in history to have his first seven singles reach the Top 5 on the Billboard charts, and one of only two artists—alongside Michael Jackson—to write a No. 1 song in four different decades. 7:30 p.m. May 9 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Celebrate the release of Lane Norberg’s album “All the Little Things” with Lane, plus special guest McKayla Marie. A rising force in the Pacific Northwest, Portland singer/songwriter Lane Norberg has captivated audiences everywhere with his honest songwriting and warming vocals. Oregon-based indie country artist McKayla Marie opens the show, bringing her blend of country roots and modern pop sound that resonates with listeners across the nation. 8 p.m. May 9 at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Click here for tickets.
“Psychic” Comedian Peter Antoniou — From a childhood fascination with a simple tarot deck to the stages of the world, Peter Antoniou has built a career on turning the impossible into unforgettable theater. Guided by his fortune-telling aunt, Peter honed his mind-reading skills, learning from tarot readers, psychics, wizards, magicians, hypnotists, profilers, and psychologists, all with the childhood goal of being recruited by the X-Men. Today, his performances weave together razor-sharp comedy, profound audience connection, and stunning moments that give you the experience of being in an episode of The Twilight Zone. 8 p.m. May 9, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theater. All ages welcome. Click here for tickets.
May 10
Mother’s Day Brunch — Chef Reyes of Dolce Vita will be in the kitchen, showcasing his culinary talents with a delicious, thoughtfully curated menu. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 10 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE. Click here for reservations.
Bubbles & Brunch — Enjoy a selection of dishes à la carte, beyond the simple waffle to an elevated and spectacular seasonal menu from Culinary Director Jonathan Jones. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 10, at Bryn Mawr Vineyards, 5935 Bethel Heights Road NW. Click here for reservations.
Mother’s Day Comedy with Ladies of Laughter — Jane Condon and Mandy Simonson share the stage for a night of stand-up that leans into real life with a sharp edge. Jane draws from family stories and everyday absurdities, while Mandy brings humor shaped by resilience and a no-nonsense perspective. Two comics, two distinct styles, both grounded and quick on their feet. 5 p.m. May 10, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets. All ages but not clean.
Galactic Heroes Takeover Day brings themed fun to the carousel, with a free saber training class, character meet-and-greets, and activities for all ages. Upgrade with a Galactic Activity Pass for rides, crafts, and a few extras to take home. A playful way to spend the day, especially if you’ve got a soft spot for a certain galaxy far, far away.11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 10 at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, 101 Front St NE.
Hear the Salem Pops with special guests True North Bluegrass, 3 p.m. Sunday, May 10, at East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave NE. Tickets $20; $10 student; free for children age 6 and younger. Click here for tickets.
May 12
Ballroom Blitz Trivia Night is a fortnightly high-energy trivia quiz hosted by Ronan Baker, 6 p.m. May 12 (and 26) at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. 21 and older. Free, but every team member must make a $10 minimum purchase of food or beverage.
Joscho Stephan Trio — At the heart of the trio’s success is their fearless musical innovation. While they reverently rework timeless jazz standards, they also infuse their own compositions with influences from Latin, classical, pop, and rock—making every set a dynamic feast for the ears. 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 12 at Salem’s Historic Grand. Click here for tickets. All ages
May 13
ARRIVAL: Canada’s Tribute To ABBA and DREAMS: The Ultimate Tribute To Fleetwood Mac. The six-piece ensemble delivers an authentic sound with full costumes, reminiscent of styles worn by the original. 7:30 p.m. May 13 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
May 14
Andante Winemaker Dinner — Experience a four-course meal thoughtfully paired with complementary wines, enhancing the flavors and creating a truly unforgettable dining experience, 6 to 8:30 p.m. May 14, at The Cozy Taberna, 249 Liberty St NE #140. Click here for tickets.
Get hands-on with your creativity and take part in the All-Abilities Workshop with Living Studios, 12 to 3 p.m., May 14 in the Maribeth Collins Lobby at Hallie Ford Museum of Art.
The Wailin’ Jennys are three distinct voices that together make an achingly perfect vocal sound, creating some of the most exciting music on the folk-roots scene, stepping up their musical game with each critically lauded recording, and thrilling audiences with their renowned live performances. 7:30 p.m. May 14 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Mistress of Reality — The ladies pay tribute to both Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne’s solo career. They perform his classic hits such as Crazy Train, I Don’t Know and Flying High Again. A Mistress of Reality show promises to deliver a big Rock arena feel with the energy of true “Girl Power” that will have everyone on their feet. Salem rock trio Boundless Joy is also on the ticket. 8 p.m. May 14, Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets. All ages welcome. Click here for tickets.
May 14-16
Sprague High School presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, a Tony Award-winning musical about six awkward spelling champions who learn that winning (and losing) isn’t everything. On stage: May 14-16 at 2373 Kuebler Blvd. Tickets: (link coming soon)
May 14-23
North Salem High School presents Pride and Prejudice — Based on Jane Austen’s classic novel, this bold, surprising, and boisterous story explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. On stage: May 14-23 at 765 14th St. NE. Tickets: nshstheater.com
May 15
Traveling Wheelz goes full disco with a night built around ’60s and ’70s grooves. Think glittery throwbacks, a packed floor, and a playlist that keeps the energy up while you circle the rink. 7:30 to 10 p.m. May 15 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Get tickets here. (Sign up early as this event often sells out!)
Game on! Salem Capitals take on Los Angeles Bluewaves, Fri, May 15, at Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th St NE. Get tickets here.
Oregon Symphony presents Copland & Rachmaninoff — Fasten your seatbelt as Alessio Bax tackles Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3, a creation of massive power and drive and one of the hardest-to-master works in the repertoire. 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 15 in Smith Auditorium at Willamette University. Click here for tickets.
The King Dot + Verbash + Void Parade — Psychedelic electronic pop rock group The King Dot (Salem), Portland’s synthpop/synthwave trio Verbash and Salem post-punk rockers Void Parade, 8 p.m. May 15, at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. All ages. Click here for tickets.
May 15-23
McKay High School presents Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic, a clever and fast-paced comedy that follows the overlooked students of a certain magical school. Don’t miss your chance to see this ridiculous show. On stage: May 15-23 at 2440 Lancaster Dr. NE. Tickets: (to be announced)
May 16
Spotlight on Literacy: The Great Gatsby Gala — Join us for an elegant evening of jazz, cocktails, yummy bites, and celebration supporting adult literacy in the Mid-Willamette Valley. 6 to 9 p.m. May 16 at East Salem Community Center. Click here for tickets.
Salem Aerial Dance Company Wizard of Oz — Step into a gravity-defying journey down the Yellow Brick Road, where the storyline is reimagined through an aerial arts lens. Audiences will be swept away as aerial fabrics ripple like a Kansas tornado, carrying Dorothy into a vivid new world. The Scarecrow is discovered lurking on an aerial sling failing to scare away its crows, the Tin Man glides with mechanical precision on a trapeze, and the Cowardly Lion bounds courageously on a lyra. Together, they journey toward the Emerald City, encountering characters along their journey. 5:30 p.m. May 16 at Chemeketa Community College Theatre Auditorium. Click here for tickets.
Game on! Salem Capitals take on San Diego Surf, Sat, May 16, at Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th St NE. Get tickets here.
Saturday Música: Joanne Broh Duo — Enjoy an afternoon of rich, soulful live music with this talented local duo, bringing together the best of blues, soul, and jazz in a seamless and deeply engaging performance. 3 to 5 p.m. May 16 at Cória Estates, 8252 Redstone Ave SE.
Night Cap — smooth, feel-good tunes that pair perfectly with a glass of wine. Settle in, sip, and enjoy a laid-back night of live music and great vibes, 5 to 7 p.m. May 16 at West Hills Vineyards, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW.
Tippy Toe Dance Studio: A Phantom’s Clue is a ballet experience that explores love and loss, and the quiet danger of envy waiting in the wings. May 16 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Join Salem’s own dreamy psych-pop trio Psychic Poppies for their final show, featuring Portland emo pop-punk sweethearts Sadgasm and Portland horror-punk band Bedlum, at 8 p.m. May 16 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
May 17
The Groundbreaking Women of Salem Walking Tour — Take a trip back in time during this special tour where you can learn about the women of Salem who were devoted wives, mothers, teachers, gardeners, and philanthropists. The tour will be visiting various locations, so be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces, grass, and gravel paths. Dress accordingly. The tour will go on rain or shine. 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17. Tickets are $30. All proceeds benefit the care, preservation, and programs of both Deepwood Museum & Gardens and Bush House Museum. Click here for details and tickets.
Portland Wrestling Showdown comes to Salem, 5 p.m. May 17, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
May 18
Yoga + Wine — Wine down your evening with a 60-minute indoor yoga practice followed by post-class sips with fellow yogis. Suggested donation of $5-$10 per yogi for practice. 6 p.m. May 18 at Chemeketa Cellars, 215 Doaks Ferry Road NW. Reserve your spot here.
May 20
Salem Big Band takes the stage with a program rooted in 20th-century jazz, from swing to Latin and contemporary charts. This 17-piece ensemble blends tight arrangements with room for standout solos, shaped by decades of playing across the Willamette Valley. 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 20 at Chemeketa Community College Auditorium. Click here for tickets.
May 21
Legacy Winemaker Dinner — A Historic Reunion of Winemakers & Founders: Jim Bernau & Joe Dobbes is an intimate, one-night-only Legacy Dinner celebrating more than 80 collective years of Oregon winemaking! 6 to 9 p.m. May 21, at The Cozy Taberna, 249 Liberty St NE #140. Click here for tickets.
May 21-23 and 28-30
Drag Me to the West: A Theatrical Drag Experience written by Lex Bolsinger is a marriage of a Jukebox musical and drag show featuring elements of ballroom performance, lip-syncing, live singing, dance, and, of course, fabulous glamour! This show takes you on a journey through the West as four unlikely travelers search for the elusive Dove. As they journey to find another, they find themselves along the way. Featuring music from Micheal Jackson, Christina Aguilera, Prince, Cher, Fleetwood Mac, Adele, Elton John, Queen, Whitney Houston, and more! This rock out theatrical drag show creates the bridge between theater goers and drag fans. 7:30 p.m. May 21-23 and 28-30 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
May 22
Evening with an Author — Spend an evening with local romance author, Elisa Keyston, as she tells us about her works and gives a reading from her enchanting cozy fantasy romance series, Northwest Magic! Lose yourself in the magical forests and charming towns of the Pacific Northwest, where picturesque Victorian homes hide mysteries spanning decades, faeries watch from the trees, and romance awaits… for those bold enough to seek it. 6 p.m. Friday, May 22, at Deepwood Museum. Click here for tickets.
May 23-25
Memorial Weekend Music Series features Bernie Sims on May 23, Gina DeNoble on May 24, and Double Down on May 25. Nestled among the rolling hills of South Salem, the estate offers the perfect backdrop to celebrate the long weekend. 3 to 5 p.m. May 23 – 25 at Cória Estates
May 23
Game on! Salem Capitals take on Seattle Superhawks, Sat, May 23, at Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th St NE. Get tickets here.
The Severin Sisters deliver rich harmonies and an unforgettable live sound, 5 to 7 p.m. May 23 at West Hills Vineyards, 4785 Salem Dallas Hwy NW
Yoga on YMCA Rooftop — Take in a 60-minute all-levels yoga class led by Kristen Aubert. 10 a.m. Saturday, May 23 at Salem Family YMCA, 685 Court St. NE. Suggested donation of $5-10 per yogi. Click here to register. (You do not need to be a YMCA Member to attend. All are welcome.)
May 26
Ballroom Blitz Trivia Night is a fortnightly high-energy trivia quiz hosted by Ronan Baker, 6 p.m., May 26, at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. Note: Free, but every team member must make a $10 minimum purchase of food or beverage.
May 27
Speaker Series: Historical Preservation — In recognition of Historic Preservation Month, join us for a presentation by American conservationist Charles F. Sams III. Sams will examine our shared stewardship as culture-keepers and the vital role preservation plays in sustaining collective history for future generations, 6 p.m. May 27 at Willamette Heritage Center. Click here for tickets.
May 28
Happy 100 Years to the Elsinore Theatre!
May 29
Game on! Salem Capitals take on Lilac City Legends, Fri, May 29, at Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th St NE. Get tickets here.
Traveling Wheelz leans into the throwbacks with a skate night set to old skl hip hop. Roll to familiar beats, find your rhythm, and settle into a couple hours of smooth laps and good energy. 7:30 to 10 p.m. May 29 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. Get tickets here. (Sign up early as this event often sells out!)
The Marshall Tucker Band brings decades of Southern rock to the stage, with songs that have stuck with listeners across generations. Expect a set built on familiar favorites, easy rhythms, and the kind of live show that leans into connection as much as sound. 7:30 p.m. May 29 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
May 29-30
Uncorked — Family Building Blocks’ signature fundraiser returns with two days of wine, auctions, and celebration. Friday’s Revelry features Oregon wines, craft brews, small bites, and a silent auction before dancing in the vineyard. Saturday’s Uncorked Live! includes a red-carpet welcome, oysters and bubbly, a gourmet three-course dinner with wine pairings, live and super silent auctions, music by the Flex Tones, and late-night snacks. 5 p.m. May 29-30 at Bryn Mawr. Get your tickets here.
May 30
An Evening Of Jazz — Dust off your dancing shoes and get ready for the North Salem Band Boosters’ annual fundraiser featuring the 14th Street Jazz Band and D Street Jazz Band. Come for the danceable tunes, stay for the delicious dinner, and bid big in the silent and live auctions knowing that your funds go to support a good cause. 1920s-inspired attire is encouraged but not required. Dancing also encouraged but not required. 5 to 8 p.m. May 30, at Salem Convention Center. Click here for tickets.
Steve Hale brings an engaging mix of live music, setting the tone for a perfect evening. Unwind, enjoy the atmosphere, and let the music carry you into the night. 5 to 7 p.m. May 30 at West Hills Vineyards.
Annual Barrel Tasting Event celebrates Chemeketa Community College’s Wine Studies program with student-led barrel tastings, interactive vineyard fun, behind-the-scenes winery tours, and the chance to bottle & label your own Pinot Noir with a donation to the Wine Studies scholarship fund! Sip, learn, mingle and celebrate our Wine Studies alumni! 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at Chemeketa Cellars. Click here for tickets.
I’m With Her — With the 2014 formation of I’m With Her, singer/songwriters Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O’Donovan, and Sara Watkins introduced an essential new force into the world of folk music: a close-knit alliance of highly esteemed musicians, each graced with a deep understanding of folk tradition and unbridled passion for expanding its possibilities. Since delivering their critically lauded debut See You Around and standalone singles like “Call My Name” (winner of the 2020 Grammy for Best American Roots Song), the trio have routinely taken time out from their individual careers to dream up songs together—eventually arriving at a new album exploring themes of ancestry, lineage, and the collective human experience. On their long-awaited sophomore LP Wild and Clear and Blue, I’m With Her now bring their luminous harmonies to a soul-searching body of work about reaching into the past, navigating a chaotic present, and bravely moving forward into the unknown. 7:30 p.m. May 30 at Elsinore Theatre. Click here for tickets.
May 30-31
Salem Philharmonia presents Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Symphony featuring Franz von Suppé – Morning, Noon, and Night in Vienna Overture, Randall DeBruyn – Apocalyptic Maiden, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 6. Catch the show 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, at East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave NE. Click here for tickets. Note: 45 minutes prior to each live concert, there is a discussion about the concert that will follow. Attendees are welcome to engage in dialogue with the conductor and ask questions. The format is informal and is a wonderful opportunity to get to know Salem Phil.
May 31
Game on! Salem Capitals take on Vancouver Bears, Sun, May 31, at Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th St NE. Get tickets here.
Tippy Toe Dance Studio proudly presents The Hollow Tree, a debut production featuring the studio’s youngest performers alongside our new Ensemble dancers, who are stepping into soloist roles for the first time. After a sunny picnic, two friends follow a frantic bunny into a hollow tree, only to find themselves drafted as honorary forest helpers in a world full of whimsical animals! To kick off the Spring Awakening, they must help the bunny rouse a pack of sleepy animals and scramble to set up the season’s biggest party. 4 p.m. May 31, at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets.
Salem Symphonic Winds takes you from screen to stage with five great arrangements and an original selection that is a tribute to Spock’s home planet:
- Scherzo for Motorcycle and Band by John Williams from one of the Indiana Jones films.
- Viktor’s Tale (from the film “The Terminal” by John Williams
- Symphonic Scenario from South Pacific by Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein
- Symphonic Suite from Star Trek by Michael Giacchino
- Vulcan by Michael Daugherty
- Star Wars Saga by John Williams
The show takes place 3 p.m. May 31, in Rose Auditorium. Tickets on sale soon.
Weekly Recurring…
Wednesdays
Bricked Up Comedy: A Weekly Comedy Open Mic — Take in a night of laughs at this weekly open mic. All ages allowed until 10, but material will not necessarily be clean. Want to test out new material? Sign up to participate. Sets are 5 minutes. Details here. 8 p.m. Wednesdays in the Brick Room at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. No cover, but a two item minimum for audience members and comics.
Thursdays
Salem Poetry Project presents a different featured reader each week, followed by the Infamous Open Mic, 7 p.m. Thursdays at the Bush Barn Art Center.
Saturdays
Salem Saturday Market returns for its 2026 season on March 7. Shop local produce, handmade goods, artisan crafts and more, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday, March through October at 865 Marion St NE. Learn more here.
We run on coffee, curiosity, and community. Fuel our next story (and our next cup) by supporting Press Play Salem. 
buymeacoffee.com/pressplaysalem
Author: Carlee Wright
Carlee Wright is a community instigator with a grand love for Salem and notably fashionable shoes (Hello, John Fluevog!) who turns waste into wearable art in her "spare" time.
