Salem, Ore. — We know, Salem is at the heart of an outdoor wonderland that can keep anyone busy for summer after summer. Hike a rugged trail. Paddle a charming stream. Picnic beside a waterfall. Climb a tree.
But don’t spend all of your time in the wilderness! Salem has a summer full of fun you won’t want to miss. Here are 10 ideas that help Salem earn its reputation as a summer city.
1. Summer Parks Program (Day Camps)
Sign your kids up for a summer full of outdoor play from Salem Parks and Recreation! Each week boasts a theme for activities, games and crafts. Participants will enjoy afternoons playing outside in a positive and supervised environment. Choose one of four parks: Englewood, Hoodview, Sumpter or Weathers.
Themes include Spirit Week, Wild Animals, Fantasy Week, Science Week, International Week, Olympics Week and Carnival Week.
Or choose from one of the many other fun activities for all ages that you’ll find in the new Recreation Guide (we even have a class for tree-climbing).
2. Level Up at the Library: 2025 Summer Reading Challenge
Salem Public Library has Summer Reading Challenges all season to encourage readers and listeners of all ages — children, teens and adults — to enjoy reading throughout the summer. Earn rewards and chances at prizes by signing up and tracking the time you spend reading or listening to books! Register for the Summer Reading Challenge.
3. Square Dance Classes
What’s the difference between a do-si-do and an allemande left? Find out at Wednesday evening square dancing classes at Center 50+. Standard class time is 6-7 p.m. for folks who want to brush up on their dance skills. Beginner’s class time is 7-8 p.m.
4. Movies in the Park (Select Friday evenings)
Enjoy these free family-friendly movies on select Friday evenings in July and August. The fun starts around sunset.
Schedule:
Friday, July 25, about 8:45 p.m. — “Inside Out 2,” PG
Friday, Aug. 8, about 8:30 p.m. — “The Wild Robot,” PG
Friday, Aug. 29, about 8 p.m. — “Wicked,” PG
Remember to bring a blanket or a low-back chair.
5. STRIDE 5K/10K Run/Walk Events (Monthly)
Participate in one or more of the STRIDE fun run/walk events taking place in some of Salem’s most loved parks through October. These events are open to all ages and abilities. Strollers and dogs on a leash are welcome. STRIDE details
6. July 28-Aug. 3 — Softball Fastpitch 12/14/16/18A Western National Championships
Watch some of the top fastpitch softball teams in the country go head-to-head at Wallace Marine Park right here in Salem. Western Nationals details
7. Aug. 1: Concert in the Park
Bees in a Bottle and Camp Crush are the featured acts at Salem’s Concert in the Park on Friday, Aug. 1, starting at 6 p.m. Join us at the Riverfront Park Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater.
8. Aug. 9 — Englewood Forest Festival
Join us under the trees at Englewood Park for a festival of art, music, environmental and educational activities for all ages. Enjoy nature and connect in a beautiful, tree-filled setting. Englewood Forest Festival details
9. Sept. 6 — Boot Scoot & Brew
Beer, wine, a full festival of live music, dancing, a variety of food booths, a raffle and more. This is the big annual fundraiser for Center 50+. Tickets are $5 at the gate or in-advance at friendsofcenter50plus.com.
10. Sept. 12-14 — Salem Art Fair and Festival, Bush’s Pasture Park
Artists, vendors, food, drink, performers and community booths at this annual celebration of art and culture. Salem Art Fair details
Before you go…
We’ve reached our promised 10 fun things, but there’s so much more! Quickly, here’s a look at a few more you won’t want to miss:
- Cool down at one of Salem’s seven spray fountains, also know as splash pads. Spray Fountain locations
- Explore a new park. We have more than 90 of them! Park locations
- Take a carousel ride. Salem Riverfront Carousel has all kinds of themed activities
- Check out the Travel Salem Events Calendar for even more summer fun
