Good morning, Salem.

Salem locals can join a free town hall at the Elsinore Theatre on Thursday, Feb.

5, to discuss the student reading crisis and then enjoy markets, concerts, and family events throughout the week at venues like the Kroc Center, Wavra Farms, and Yard Food Park.

Oregon lost jobs in 2025 as the unemployment rate increased to 5.2% due to rising jobless numbers countering modest gains in private health care + social assistance, while the Office of Economic Analysis expects slower job gains in 2026.

Salem saw a 2% rise in employment last year while unemployment inched up to 5.1%, with leisure and hospitality jobs gaining 2% against state declines; economists expect a reacceleration in 2026 thanks to federal tax cuts and lower interest rates (local analysis shows cautious optimism).

OPRD is replacing five aging Akebono cherry trees at State Capitol State Park as part of a 20 year tree plan.

The work is scheduled from Feb. 3 to Feb. 6 and the park stays open (new trees bloom in March).

On Feb. 3, a new traffic signal went into use at Liberty Road S and Davis Road S to improve left-turn safety during peak travel times, following traffic studies and funded by a community improvement bond + local fees.

Abiqua Falls—a 92-foot cascade on a 40-acre lot near Scotts Mills—was listed for sale on Redfin on Feb.

2 by Mt. Angel Abbey. Local advocates urge that a conservation-minded buyer preserves public access.

Music & Poetry Open Mic Night

7-10 p.m. — Infinity Room — No cover — A vibrant evening showcasing local music and poetry talents.

You Can’t Take it with You — Cue Captions

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Pentacle Theatre — Ticket info available — Enjoy a captioned performance of this classic comedy.

Indoor Winter Market at Wavra Farms

10 AM – 3 PM — Wavra Farms & Nursery — Free entry — Explore a diverse market with 45+ vendors offering unique goods in a cozy greenhouse setting.

Polar Plunge Fundraiser

9 AM - 1 PM — Illahe Hills Country Club — $60 — Take the plunge to support Special Olympics Oregon athletes in a fun and chilly challenge.

Salem's Premier Trading Card Showcase & Collectibles Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Scottish Rite Center — Free admission — Discover a treasure trove of sports cards, rare collectibles, and unique items at this vibrant showcase.

Paint & Sip Night

6-8 p.m. — Flight Deck Restaurant & Lounge — Full food and drink menu available — Unleash your inner artist at a chill painting session with friends.

North East Salem Community Association Meeting

7-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Free entry — Engage with your neighbors to help shape community decisions and improvements.

Oregon Symphony Young People's Concert

11:30 AM — Smith Auditorium — $7 per person — Experience a symphony performance specifically curated for students in a fun and engaging setting.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 AM — Salem Public Library — Free — Engage in interactive stories, songs, and movement designed for young children and their caregivers.

Indoor Winter Market at Wavra Farms

10 AM – 3 PM — Wavra Farms & Nursery — Free entry — Explore a cozy indoor market featuring over 45 local vendors with a variety of goods.