Lately it seems like one minute you're having picnics, playing at the beach, soaking up the sun, and the next thing you know you're buying pumpkin spice lattes and apple cider donuts. Yes, fall is in the air! A change of seasons is upon us, as summer transitions into fall in the beautiful Willamette Valley. If you're heading to Salem, Oregon in the next few months, there is still plenty to see and do in and around this town! Things aren't slowing down here. As the temperatures become cooler, leaves begin to change color, and our thoughts move naturally toward things like apples, pumpkins, and hayrides, let's take a look at some fun fall activities and events you'll find around Salem this season. Fall Markets and Farms Markets Summer may be coming to a close, but that doesn't mean the fun stops now. Community markets that sell local produce, homemade crafts, goodies, gifts, and more, are still happening through October. You can check the website here for dates, times, and locations so you won't miss out on anything these markets are offering throughout the fall. Farms There are plenty of local farm stands as well, like EZ Orchards and Fordyce Farm. The Willamette Valley website has lists of nearby farms so you can search for one closest to you. All kinds of traditional fall activities like a pumpkin patch, fresh cider and pies, hayrides, corn mazes, and more are waiting for you at many of our local farms. Fall Foliage Walking amongst the trees on a beautiful autumn day can be a breathtaking sight to behold. Salem, Oregon definitely has some fine walking paths to experience those sights, as well as beautiful tree lined streets that decorate our town with the colors of autumn. Deepwood Museum and Gardens has been a long standing part of Salem's history for over 100 years. The Victorian Home and surrounding area is one of many local parks where you can embrace the fall colors in nature. Bush's Pasture Park has over 90 acres of paths, woods, and open areas to explore. The Riverfront Park and Minto-Brown Island Park are more great places to find colored leaves and nature's adornments as the valley becomes bright with orange, red, and gold leaves this time of year. These are also great places to watch for wild ducks and other birds that fly overhead as they begin their migrations south for the winter. If you're an avid bird watcher, this is the place to be! The Great Junk Hunt Oregon is well known for its rainy days and even though outdoor activities are abundant year round, indoor events can be a welcome harbor when the weather starts to change. What better time to go junk hunting? On October 18th and 19th, you can find “The Great Junk Hunt” at the Oregon State Fairgrounds and Expo Center. This big flea market offers early bird and first pick tickets for those enthusiasts who are ready to dig in and do some serious junk shopping! Visitors can find things you normally don't see anywhere else. Farmhouse, industrial, vintage and repurposed junk, handmade items, and more can keep you entertained for hours. You know what they say, “one person's junk is another one's treasure!” 2024 NPRA Rodeo Finals Also at the Fairgrounds, you can find the NPRA Rodeo Finals on September 20th-21st. The top 12 Cowboys and Cowgirls compete in 11 events including bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding, barrel racing, and more. The Northwest Professional Rodeo Association consists of nearly 40 rodeos throughout the year, with over 1,000 contestants. This is sure to be an exciting event to witness! Halloween Activities Trick or Treating Finally, as October moves us closer to the highlights of fall, traditional Halloween events pop up all around us. Several “safe” trick or treating activities can be located at various stores as well as places like the Morning Star Community Church parking lot. On Sunday, October 27th, from 3-5 pm, participants in costume can “trick or treat” for candy there. Volunteers decorate their cars and trucks with a variety of creative decorations and holiday themes for a festive afternoon of Halloween treats. Carousel Rides The Salem Riverfront Carousel has a “Scare-ousel Bash” on October 26th at 11am. As well as other Fall activities. You can check their website here, to find something that sounds fun to you! Powerland Halloween Powerland Heritage Park has multiple dates for their Halloween activities, so be sure and check their website here for more information. You can choose to go on a story adventure to save Neverland, ride a trolley with pirates, decorate a pumpkin to take home, and so much more. Ghosts of the Grand If you're looking for something extra spooky, you won't want to miss the Ghosts of the Grand event. This is an interactive tour that features three spooky stories and insights into the Salem Tunnels and the history of the Grand Historical Order of Salem Theatres. Included in this experience is delicious food and beverages and a search for a hidden speakeasy. Ghosts of the Grand will be happening throughout the month of October. See the dates here. Bowser's Boo Bash Happening right here at the Salem Convention Center is the Bowser's Boo Bash put on by the Oregon Humane Society and sponsored by Capitol Subaru. This event is taking place on October 12 and kicking off at 5:30pm in our Santiam Ballroom. This costumed carnival is a Halloween spooktacular event that's all about supporting creatures large and small. The night will start with delicious “potion” tasting and perusing a unique array of treasures that will be available in the silent auction. Dressing up is encouraged! RSVP for the event here. There's always plenty to do in Salem, Oregon and the surrounding areas, it really is hard to list it all. No matter what you're looking for, from indoors to outdoors, family friendly, or something more adult, there's really something for everybody.
