Events in Marion County, OR

Celebrate the newest edition of the Retirement Connection Guide at a festive release gathering in the Dye House at Willamette Heritage Center. The reception focuses on networking and welcomes colleagues and referral sources. More than 150 people are expected, with wine, hors d'oeuvres, and a celebratory atmosphere centered on the new guide. Billed as the networking event of the year, it offers a relaxed setting to make connections and mark the launch.

Card Mechanic celebrates a grand opening at SimNow, turning a once-private hideout into an open venue. This kickoff debuts the first in a continuing series of trade nights, with opportunities to trade and to race. It offers a first look at the space and the start of many future gatherings.

A candlelit concert fills The Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center in Salem with music inspired by Halloween, creating an intimate, multi-sensory atmosphere. Performed by a Listeso string quartet, the program weaves together favorites such as Thriller, Funeral March of a Marionette, a movement from Shostakovich’s String Quartet No. 8, Tubular Bells from The Exorcist, the themes from Stranger Things, Beetlejuice, The Addams Family, and Halloween, the Prelude from Psycho, Ghostbusters, Danse macabre, Night on Bald Mountain, Time Warp from The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and a medley from The Nightmare Before Christmas. Guests ages 8 and older are welcome, and anyone under 16 must attend with an adult. The venue is ADA compliant, and seating is assigned within each zone on a first come, first served basis.

Fondue Fridays have returned with two seatings available. Tickets are available.

Champions at the Downtown Salem YMCA welcomes teens ages 13 to 18 for a program filled with activities and support. Expect games and recreation such as swimming, working out, and video games, together with individual mentoring and meaningful peer connections. Snacks and drinks are provided, and there are opportunities to explore job internships with the YMCA. The atmosphere centers on honesty, respect, and loyalty, creating a place to build character and make lasting memories. Wear comfortable workout clothes and sneakers. A free YMCA membership is available, and a Champions leader can share the details.

An open mic fills RiverCity Rock Star Academy’s Garage Stage with performances from solo artists, duos, and bands, whether acoustic or amplified. It is free, all ages, and open to everyone. Walk-in performers are accepted, so musicians can simply arrive and take the stage.

A candlelit tribute to Fleetwood Mac unfolds in The Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center, pairing the band’s iconic catalog with the rich sound of a Listeso string quartet. Designed as a multi-sensory experience in a distinctive Salem setting, this concert reimagines favorites in an intimate classical style. The tentative program includes Everywhere, Gypsy, You Make Loving Fun, Never Going Back Again, Don't Stop, Gold Dust Woman, Go Your Own Way, Landslide, Songbird, Rhiannon, and The Chain. The event welcomes ages 8 and up, with attendees under 16 accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant, seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone, and late entry is not permitted.

A Salem food truck event centers on a lobster roll with simple ways to order. Use the mobile app for contactless ordering and go straight to the pickup window at your scheduled time, or place an order at the truck window. App ordering is limited to same-day posted events and opens a few hours before each stop after the previous event has wrapped. Pay with credit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The in-app loyalty program lets you collect points toward free food, either applied automatically on app orders or by scanning your loyalty card at the window. If the app is unavailable or limited, on-site ordering is still offered.

This 1982 science fiction adventure shares a tender story of friendship and captures a sense of cinematic wonder.

After dark, the Pixie Nook turns into a cozy Halloween haven filled with candlelight, atmospheric music, and seasonal magic. Guests can explore the shop, discover enchanting finds, and enjoy the spirit of Samhain in a warm, inviting setting. Create a Samhain-themed spell jar at a hands-on station, pick up a surprise bag with hidden goodies, and receive a quick single-card oracle message for a touch of insight. Costumes are welcome, treats add to the fun, and a little trick-or-treat magic may appear. Tickets and reservations are not required, making it easy to stop by and soak in the mystical vibe.

Leonid & Friends take the stage for a live concert with tickets on sale now. This is an all-ages event with reserved seating. A limited VIP meet and greet is available after the performance, giving wristband holders the chance to meet the band for a group photo, conversation with the musicians, and autographs on merchandise or memorabilia.

The Holiday Bazaar from Stayton United Methodist Women in Faith features handmade treasures created by members of the church. Browse crafts, dolls dressed in home sewn outfits, and other unique pieces suited for seasonal decorating, gift giving, and stocking stuffers. Lunch will be available for purchase. There is no admission fee. Proceeds support charitable efforts, community needs, and mission projects that aid women and children locally, across the state and country, and around the world. Outside vendors and table rentals are not included. Photos shown reflect a previous year.

A free community self-defense offering features two separate classes tailored by age group. Kids ages 7 to 14 have a dedicated class, and women ages 14 and older have their own. These beginner-friendly sessions require no uniform. Participants focus on personal safety and awareness, learn how to recognize common assault situations, and get hands-on practice with straightforward techniques that can help in real-life scenarios. This is a drop-in format, and a parent or legal guardian must have a signed waiver on file before minors can take part. For questions or FAQs, check the discussion tab, send a message on Facebook, email info@kenshoma.com, or call 503-509-0815.

Relive the sound of the Beatles as The Fab Four presents a live tribute focused on the music of A Hard Day's Night at the Elsinore Theatre in Salem, Oregon. This performance welcomes all ages, and seating is reserved. Tickets are on sale.

Melts in Your Mouth performs at the Lovely Fireside Lounge, delivering a live set that combines original songs with blues and indie rock covers.

Dive into a pop-up comic swap where collectors can browse, buy, sell, and trade a wide range of finds. Look for comic books, action figures, trading cards, vintage toys and games, Funko Pops, and more. The event takes place at Salem Center and offers a friendly space to thin a collection, complete a set, or track down a nostalgic piece.

Learn how to make and can your own vegetable soup at Salem Public Library in Salem, Oregon. Master Food Preservation volunteers from the OSU Extension Service, Marion County, will demonstrate the process and answer canning questions. The program is free, with seating available on a first come, first seated basis.

Take part in a bird walk at Minto-Brown Island Park, a Salem destination with a variety of habitats that attract birds and other wildlife throughout the year. The Peter Courtney Bridge provides an easy connection for exploring more of the area. Participants gather at Parking Lot 3, the final parking area inside the park. Dress for changing conditions and pack water, snacks, and binoculars. Some paths are uneven, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is advised. Expect a satisfying outing with seasonal scenery and chances to spot what is active in the landscape.

The Jefferson Service Integration Team supports people living in the Jefferson School District area. This event is for anyone who wants to learn about community resources and programs available locally. For questions, contact Kim Dwyer at kdwyer@santiamhospital.org.

Alzheimer's and dementia do not come with instructions, yet help is available. This free educational program offers practical guidance on what to expect and how to plan for the future, along with information and resources to support those affected. For details about additional programs and support in your area, call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

Salem Audubon Birder's Night will be held at the Salem Scottish Rite Center in Salem, Oregon. The topic will be announced, and more details will be shared once confirmed.

The World Beat Holiday Market returns to the Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center for a festive marketplace. Further event details will be announced soon. Admission is $5, with free entry for kids 12 and younger, active military and veterans, and Oregon Trail cardholders.

Explore a toy-focused marketplace at the Salem Scottish Rite Center, featuring over 60 vendor tables filled with action figures, Transformers, Star Wars items, Barbie, LEGO, retro video games, comics, vintage toys, Funko, model cars, plush, games, and other pop culture finds. Collectors and dealers can sell their items with 8-foot tables available for $40 each, offering a simple way to showcase a personal collection or set up as a seller. Look forward to a wide mix of nostalgia and contemporary favorites all in one spot.

Blending a knitting circle with a book club, this gathering invites participants to work on a favorite craft while chatting about books with fellow readers. Bring knitting, crochet, embroidery, or another portable project, along with a book or two to discuss, or simply craft and build your TBR list. Hot drinks and light snacks will be provided, and there is no cost to attend.

The Red, White & Boots Gala offers a heartfelt evening devoted to Veterans in the community who are working to overcome homelessness and housing instability. The focus is on impact and connection, celebrating resilience while mobilizing support that makes a real difference. Funds raised help provide safe housing, critical services, and essential resources that support stability, dignity, and independence. Contributions also create flexible assistance for needs not covered by grants, such as move-in support, everyday necessities, and activities that build community. Guests can expect food and drinks, live entertainment, music and dancing, uplifting stories, honors and acknowledgments, raffle drawings, and opportunities to connect in a spirit of community support.

At Half Penny in Salem, OR, Lou takes the stage with three new traveling companions for a first outing that blends familiar favorites with plenty of new material. The music is geared toward dancing, so comfortable shoes will come in handy.

At Elsinore Theatre, World Ballet Company brings the classic story of Swan Lake to the stage in a lavish production where destiny and enchantment intersect in a timeless struggle between good and evil. A cast of 50 dancers from around the world performs with more than 150 beautifully sewn costumes and richly detailed, handcrafted sets. Favorite moments are featured throughout, including the delicate Dance of the Little Swans and the Black Swan’s celebrated 32 fouettés, all carried by Tchaikovsky’s soaring score. The performance runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission, and is for ages 5 and over. The company is based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, presenting beloved ballets in cities across the country with artists representing over ten nations. To date, the troupe has visited more than 300 cities and performed for over 500,000 audience members, reflecting a commitment to making ballet accessible to all.

Take a leisurely bird walk at Ankeny NWR, beginning at the Ankeny Hill Nature Center parking lot. On-site facilities are available, and the trails near the nature center are open. The outing starts around the nature center before continuing to Pintail Marsh and other highlights within the refuge. Pack water, binoculars, and a snack. Surfaces can be uneven, so plan for sturdy, comfortable footwear.

The Silverton Christmas Market returns to Oregon Garden Resort with a festive experience filled with sparkling displays and seasonal fun. Wander through millions of twinkling lights, lace up for a new full-size ice rink set inside a cozy winter tent, ride the train, and enjoy snowless tubing, live music, and warming fire pits alongside festive food and drinks. The authentic German Vendor Market showcases handcrafted gifts and imported holiday décor, including ornaments, nutcrackers, smokers, and pyramids, with glühwein and offerings from 28 local vendors to round out the shopping. Resort packages are available that bundle event admission with breakfast, admission to The Oregon Garden, parking, and lodging close to the lights. Tickets are available, pricing varies, and children 5 and under are free. Popular nights can sell out, so purchasing in advance is recommended.

Explore a variety of vendor booths at the Northwest Christian Church Fall Bazaar. Taking place at Northwest Christian Church - Newberg, this bazaar brings together vendors for browsing and buying. This listing is shared by a participating vendor, not the event host.

Explore a big holiday market spread across more than one area inside McNary High School. Shop local vendors, pick out Christmas presents, and discover unique gifts made with you in mind.

The third annual Turkey Leg, presented by Beer Drinkers of America, is a national field goal kicking challenge for members that spotlights leg strength and bragging rights. Chapters and members across the USA are encouraged to compete for a chance to be crowned the Turkey Leg Champion and have their name added to the BDOA Champion Plaque. Competitors pick a distance and take up to three attempts. Making at least one kick at that distance allows advancement to longer tries, while three consecutive misses at any distance results in elimination. The longest successful kick wins. Athletic shoes or rubber cleats are recommended. Participants may enjoy a cold drink while competing, with respect for others and the rules. Remote entry is available so members can compete from anywhere. Entrants begin their video by showing their BDOA ID and announcing the kick distance, then record all attempts clearly with the distance indicated. Video clips may be combined in order. No re-dos or editing tricks are allowed, and the honor system applies. Submissions can be made by tagging on Instagram or Facebook or by email.

Experience a candlelit tribute to the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons as the Listeso String Quartet performs at The Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center. Familiar hits such as Clocks, Viva la Vida, The Scientist, Fix You, Sky Full of Stars, and My Universe are paired with Imagine Dragons favorites including Radioactive, Believer, Thunder, Bad Liar, Follow You, and Eyes Closed, along with selections like Adventure of a Lifetime and feelslikeimfallinginlove. The performance runs about 60 minutes. Doors open 45 minutes before the music begins, and there is no entry once the concert starts. The event welcomes ages 8 and older, with attendees under 16 required to be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant, and seating within each zone is assigned on a first come, first served basis.

Experience a candlelit tribute to the music of Queen and ABBA at The Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center. The Listeso String Quartet brings iconic hits to life in an intimate setting illuminated by candlelight, creating a multi-sensory concert in Salem. The tentative set features favorites such as Dancing Queen, SOS, Money, Money, Money, Bohemian Rhapsody, I Want to Break Free, Waterloo, Super Trouper, Mamma Mia, Don't Stop Me Now, We Will Rock You, and We Are the Champions. The performance runs 60 minutes. Doors open 45 minutes before the music begins, and there is no late seating once the concert starts. The event welcomes guests ages 8 and up, with attendees under 16 accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is assigned within each zone on a first come, first served basis.

Wild Things Games hosts a Night City Showdown for Welcome to Night City. The tournament uses Swiss pairings with best of three matches. Swiss rounds are 50 minutes, and the top cut plays 75 minute rounds if turnout permits. Attendance is capped at 32 players, and the entry fee is $25. All participants receive a Sandevistan in alternate art. Players reaching the Top 8 earn Adam Smasher - Metal over Meat as a foil alternate art, and those in the Top 4 also receive a foil alternate art Sandevistan. The winner takes home a foil stamped Adam Smasher - Metal over Meat plus an Adam Smasher playmat. After Swiss concludes there will be a 30 minute break. Deck checks and dice checks are planned for the Top 8 if applicable, so have a decklist ready through melee or on paper.

The 4th Annual Turkey Trot at Robert Frost Elementary School is presented by the Robert Frost Parent Teacher Club in collaboration with the Silverton Runners Club. Participants can choose a newly designed 5K course or a separate 1 mile fun run and walk. The 5K follows public sidewalks alongside vehicle traffic and crosses commercial driveways, so everyone should stay aware of surroundings. Walkers are welcome and are encouraged to start toward the back to give runners space. 5K registration is $25 for adults and $10 for students ages 6 to 18, with children ages 0 to 5 free with a paid adult. The 1 mile fun run and walk is $10 for adults and $5 for students ages 6 to 18, with children ages 0 to 5 free with a paid adult. Prices are automatically based on the birthdate entered at registration and no coupon code is required. Same day registration is available for an additional $5 per runner per event. Every participant receives a raffle ticket to enter for prize baskets, and additional tickets will be available for purchase. Donated prizes include items and gift certificates from Betsy and Iya, Langer's, McMenamins, Museum of Natural History, Wanderlust Tours, Maverick's league, Portland Nursery, Burgerville, Owl Crate Books, Ankeny Vineyard, EZ Orchard, Silverton Farmers Market, Fluffy Butt Alpacas, and Top Golf. Students and staff of Robert Frost receive an extra raffle ticket. Winning numbers will be posted during the event, and prizes must be claimed before the event concludes. Unclaimed items may be used for a future fundraiser or a subsequent edition of the event. Check in takes place in front of the school, where participants can pick up bibs and view raffle prizes. The 5K begins near the Silverton 55+ Center and Pickleball area, the fun run starts at Robert Frost Elementary, and both races finish in front of the school. The 1 mile course uses a wood chip and gravel path behind the school and the Silverton Baptist Church. Surfaces may be uneven. Jogger strollers and multi terrain mobility aids may be suitable, while umbrella strollers and standard wheelchairs may have limited usability. Please use personal discretion. Parking is limited. The Robert Frost parking lot and the Silverton 55+ Center lots are closed to participant parking. A small number of spaces may be available at the Silverton First Baptist Church, and carpooling, neighborhood street parking, or drop off is encouraged. All ages are welcome, and festive costumes, strollers, and headphones or earbuds are allowed. Bikes, scooters, and skateboards are not permitted. Tobacco products, weapons, and controlled substances are prohibited on the school campus. There are no aid stations or event restrooms on the routes, but restrooms, water, and snacks will be available at the start and finish. Photos may be taken along the course, though no professional photography is provided. Those not participating can support students by making a contribution to the Robert Frost Parent Teacher Club, a registered nonprofit.

Discover watercolor in a welcoming, one day workshop led by instructor Stacie Clark. Practice essential methods including wet into wet, masking, and dry brush while completing a guided project from start to finish. The format moves step by step, and no previous drawing or painting experience is required, making it a good fit for beginners as well as artists who want a focused project session.

BIG HEAD 3 challenges participants with a rapid trivia sprint featuring 50 questions to complete in 10 minutes. Each correct response is worth 1 point, for a maximum of 50. Only one attempt is allowed per person. The highest scoring member earns the prize package and will have their name inscribed on the BDOA Champions Plaque. Nonmembers may participate, although only members are eligible for prizes.

Curious about scuba but not ready to commit to the PADI Open Water Diver course? This introductory Discover Scuba Diving session offers a first look at the sport in a pool or other calm water setting. With a highly trained PADI professional leading the way, you will be introduced to essential skills, use provided scuba equipment, and have time to ask questions. It is a chance to take those first underwater breaths, see how it feels to explore beneath the surface, and decide if certification is the right next step. The class cost is $200 and includes in-water instruction with a PADI professional and rental gear. Mask and snorkel are not included. Presented by Salem Scuba at the Kroc Center Salem. For registration and details, contact the shop at 503-588-3483 or email Charline@SalemScuba.com.

The 5th Annual Pancakes with the Grinch takes place at the Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center in Columbia Hall. Guests can enjoy unlimited pancakes and playful Grinch antics in a festive setting. Admission is free, and optional donations support Bridges Oregon programs. A silent auction and a 50/50 raffle offer additional ways to take part while contributing to the cause. Spanish and ASL interpretation will be available, and accessibility accommodations can be arranged with at least 72 hours notice. Parking is free.

Support Sprague HOSA and local vendors at a holiday market returning to the Sprague High School Gym in Salem, Oregon. Browse custom gifts created just for you while the event celebrates being back in this building.

The Stayton Holiday Craft Bazaar at Stayton Middle School features booths with handmade goods, direct sales offerings, and food trucks. Guests can explore unique creations and enjoy food on site. Vendor fees are donated to youth groups in the local community.

Participants are encouraged to bring one or more books they have loved recently or cherished for years to spark a relaxed, round-the-table conversation about each selection. Complimentary coffee will be available, along with other hot beverages and light snacks. Admission is free.

Wild Things Games presents a Digimon Ignition of X release event built around a sealed tournament. The entry fee is $32. Matches are played as best of three in Swiss rounds with a 60 minute limit per round, and there is no top cut. Every player receives six Ignition of X booster packs, one Release Event Pack, and a Participation Card. In addition, $5 in store credit from each entrant will be added to a prize pool that will be awarded to top placing players at the conclusion of the tournament.

Melts in Your Mouth performs original songs alongside blues and indie rock covers at the Lovely Fireside Lounge.

Browse rows of reads in the multipurpose room, with options for every age, from board books up to young adult, plus adult fiction and nonfiction and a selection in Spanish. Mass market paperbacks are five for one dollar, and there are plenty of DVDs, games, and puzzles to choose from. A $10 fill-a-bag offer will be available during the final hour. Cash is welcome, and cards are accepted with a five dollar minimum.

An energetic evening awaits at Half Penny. Dancing shoes are encouraged for a spirited night that is billed as one not to miss.

Browse an indoor market featuring a variety of local vendors. The market operates every Saturday from October through March. This announcement highlights only select dates for one participant, while the broader market includes many vendors to discover.

A Candlelight concert brings beloved Christmas carols to life on strings at The Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center in Salem, set in the soft glow of candlelight. Performed by a Listeso string quartet, the tentative program features favorites including 12 Days of Christmas, Angels from the Realms of Glory, Angels We Have Heard on High, Away in a Manger, Carol of the Bells, Deck the Halls, Ding Dong Merrily on High, Do You Hear What I Hear, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Greensleeves (What Child Is This), Hark the Herald Angels Sing, In the Bleak Midwinter, Joy to the World, O Christmas Tree, O Come All Ye Faithful, O Holy Night, Silent Night, and The First Noël. The performance lasts 60 minutes. Doors open 45 minutes before the music begins, and there is no entry after the start. The venue is ADA compliant, and seating within each zone is assigned in order of arrival. Recommended for ages 8 and up, with attendees under 16 required to be accompanied by an adult.

This relaxed meetup blends a craft circle with a casual book discussion. Participants can work on ongoing projects such as knitting, painting, or ornament making while chatting about favorite reads. Attendees may bring a book or two to discuss, or focus on crafting and gather ideas to expand a to-be-read list. Hot drinks and light snacks will be available, and there is no cost to attend.

Learn practical ways to navigate Alzheimer’s and dementia in a free educational session that explains what to expect and how to plan ahead. This program also highlights reliable resources to support ongoing care and learning in your area. For more information about related programs and local assistance, the 24/7 Helpline is available at 800.272.3900.