Good morning, Salem.

Salem is Oregon’s capital with 182,726 people, offering diverse neighborhoods, rising housing costs, and ample parks along with key public safety and education services.

The guide provides essential details—covering housing trends, public service jurisdictions, and government structure—to help future residents navigate life in the city.

Salem’s longstanding photo enforcement program will expand on Thursday, May 1, adding northbound detection for red light and speed violations at the intersections of Commercial ST with Kuebler BV SE and Commercial ST with Madrona AV SE — during its first month, warnings will be issued to violators after a police officer verifies recorded incidents before any citation is sent.

Salem city officials and local legislators are working on a plan for Oregon to contribute $7 million a year to pay for police and fire services — a proposal meant to offset lost tax revenue from state-owned land.

The funding will be reviewed in the state budget after May and, if approved, will cover only emergency services as other budget challenges continue.

Rideshare drivers gathered at the Oregon State Capitol on April 28 to push for wage minimums ahead of a public hearing on Senate Bill 1166—drivers from Tigard and Portland showed evidence of pay gaps between their earnings and company profits.

Polk County voters will decide on May 20 whether to approve a property tax measure that would add 15 cents per $1,000 of assessed value to fund renovations at the fairgrounds at 520 South Pacific Highway W—if approved, the measure will bring in about $1.2 million in its first year to pay for upgrades like a new HVAC system, electrical fixes, sidewalk repairs, and a new main office to replace the maintenance shed. Local officials say these updates are needed to help the fairgrounds modernize and continue operating.

Writers Group Gathering

1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Share your stories and connect with fellow writers in a supportive environment.

Marion County Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale

May 2-3 — Columbia Hall — Free entry — Discover over 10,000 plants including vegetables, perennials, and special fuchsia baskets for Mother’s Day.

Awesome 3000

8 AM – 1 PM — McCulloch Stadium — Free entry — A long-standing youth event featuring exciting participation from Salem-Keizer and the surrounding areas.

Vivaldi's Four Seasons Concert

2:30-6:30 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Cost info not specified — Experience the vibrant classical charm of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons performed by the Oregon Symphony.

Salem Saturday Market

4-9 p.m. — State of Oregon Green Lot — Free entry — Celebrate local craftsmanship with over 150 vendors offering handmade and homegrown treasures.

Mother's Day Brunch

11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Oregon Garden Resort — Pricing not specified — Delight in a festive brunch featuring brunch favorites and a visit to the serene botanical garden.

Crochet & Slay for Teens

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Craft, socialize, and explore fiber arts in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Mexico in the Heart 2025

5-9 p.m. — Gerry Frank Amphitheater — Free entry — Celebrate Mexican culture with lively music, delicious food, and vibrant traditions.

Free Beginner ESL Class

3 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — A welcoming atmosphere to learn English as a second language with multilingual instruction.

The Outer Realms Art Market

11 a.m.-6 p.m. — Downtown Salem — Free entry — Celebrate community with local artists, authors, and practitioners at this vibrant three-day art market.