Good morning, Salem.

On Monday afternoon, Salem Soup Squad volunteers fed dozens of unsheltered people and their pets at Wallace Marine Park by serving chili, hot dogs, pizza and other food from about 2 p.m. until 4 p.m., and they also offered water, hand warmers and dog kibble to those in need.

The only bank between Stayton and Sisters serving 94 miles of Highway 22 will close for good on Jan 12 when the U.S. Bank in Mill City ends operations.

U.S. Bank said it is easing the transition for customers and employees as more transactions move online — a change that follows recent branch closures.

Salem shops will join Small Business Saturday on November 29 as seven downtown businesses offer special discounts for shoppers using a local shop card—offers include gift certificates and price cuts on items from books to donuts.

The holiday season in Salem and Keizer brings many events from Thanksgiving through mid-December for families.

Organizers offer ticketed light shows, markets, and parades — such as Magic at the Mill and the Riverfront Holiday Lights Display — that give neighbors fun ways to celebrate.

Oregon shoppers get ready for Black Friday on Nov.

28 as early deals from major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy and Macy’s are already available online and in stores, with some stores starting sales on Nov. 20 and Best Buy opening at 6 a.m. — a boost for holiday savings — while offers extend through Cyber Week.

Jane Goodall Environmental Middle School in Salem planted an Oregon white oak on November 25 to honor Jane Goodall, who died Oct.

1.

Governor Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency for Oregon due to a leak in a BP pipeline that supplies 90% of the state’s fuel — the order lasting through Dec.

24 permits fuel suppliers to bring in fuel by truck and train. BP officials said the pipeline was partially restarted — measures put in place to ease potential travel disruptions during the busy holiday season.

Oregon law requires all vehicle headlights to be white and bright enough to light people and cars up to 200 feet; they must not use LED replacement bulbs unless they come with a full, DOT-approved assembly—violators face fines from $85 up to $500, with higher penalties in work, school, or safety zones. The law also limits wattage, intensity, and the number of lights to ensure drivers are not blinded by glare.

Salem Run'ucopia Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

9:10 a.m. — Riverfront City Park — Registration available until Thanksgiving morning — Participate in a community-run event to celebrate the holiday spirit.

Magic at the Mill

5:30 PM – 8:00 PM — Willamette Heritage Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical holiday lights festival with entertainment, markets, and Santa visits.

GLOW Christmas Light Adventure

4:45-9 p.m. — Volcanoes Stadium — Admission starting at $14.99 (+ fees) — Experience a whimsical search-and-find adventure amidst over a million twinkling lights and festive holiday scenes.

Santa Paws Photo Event for Project POOCH

12-4 p.m. — Rogue Salem Public House — Donations welcomed — Capture festive moments with your dog while supporting a great cause.

Holiday Author Meet & Greet

1-4 p.m. — Barnes & Noble — Free entry — Celebrate the holidays with signed copies of the Alex McKenna series featuring ghosts, witches, and paranormal adventures.

72nd Annual SnoBall

72nd Annual Teen dance at Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion. The only dance that is inclusive of all high school and home schooled students.

GLOW Christmas Light Adventure

4:45-9 p.m. — Volcanoes Stadium — Admission starting at $14.99 — Experience a magical landscape with over a million lights and festive activities for the whole family.

Oregon Total Worker Health Alliance Share and Connect

6-10 p.m. — 400 High St SE, Salem, OR — Lunch provided — Network, learn, and collaborate on best practices for workplace health and safety.

Sonic Journey Meditation Experience

7-8:45 p.m. — Salem Friends Meeting House — $20-40 sliding scale — Experience profound relaxation and mindfulness through immersive sound meditation with gongs and crystal singing bowls.

December Paint & Sip Night

6-8 p.m. — Vortex Eatery & Taphouse — Full menu available — Enjoy an evening of creativity with drinks and painting in a relaxed setting.

Santa Baby Holiday Networking Event 2025

5:30-11:59 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — Get ready to jingle and mingle at a festive night of connections and cheer for local businesses.