Salem's enchanting attractions and annual events are one of Oregon's best kept travel secrets. Whatever brings you here, whether it is an important meeting, a convention, wedding or other special affair, there is always something special worth experiencing just around the corner. Please visit our friends at Travel Salem to learn how to get the most out of your next visit. In the meantime, here are some fun local events coming up, many of them are happening right here in Downtown Salem! 1. World Beat Festival June 28 & 29, 2014 Held in Salem's Riverfront Park on the banks of the Willamette River, the World Beat Festival is a two-day, non-stop program of international music, dance, song, traditional theater, ethnic foods, hands-on crafts, traditional customs and rituals, and folklore. World Beat celebrates the people and traditions of every continent. www.worldbeatfestival.org 2. Deepwood Wine and Jazz Fest June 28, 2014 4-9 p.m. Historic Deepwood Estate, Salem 3 Gardens of Wine, 2 Stages of Music, 1 Fabulous Event. Willamette Valley wineries, local gourmet food vendors and live music all nestled in the lovely Deepwood Gardens resplendent with the color and fragrance of early summer blooms. www.historicdeepwoodestate.org 3. Civil War Reenactment July 4-6, 2014 Willamette Mission State Park, Salem The Northwest Civil War Council is a non-profit organization made up of people who share a strong interest in the American Civil War. The group demonstrates both the military and civilian lives of Americans during the mid-19th century. www.nwcwc.org 4. Marion County Fair July 10–13, 2014 Oregon State Fairgrounds, Salem No matter what your interest area, you'll find it at the Marion County fair. Come and see the 4H/FFA animal/project exhibits. Bring the kids for a day of crafts, carnival rides, and a visit to the petting zoo. Like American Idol? Well, the MCF Talent Show will keep you entertained. Deep fried Twinkies, monster burgers, elephant ears calling you? It may be time to get your fair food fix! Come to the Marion County Fair and receive that special experience you can't get anywhere else! www.co.marion.or.us 5. Annual Salem Art Fair & Festival July 18-20, 2014 Bush's Pasture Park, Salem Salem Art Fair & Festival is the largest festival of its kind in Oregon. Each year, the SAF&F attracts approximately 35,000 visitors from all over the nation and is committed to upholding the importance of fine arts and crafts by providing access to a range of artistic mediums appealing to both art appreciators and art collectors alike. With a variety of different activities and offerings, the art fair is an experience the whole family can enjoy. www.SalemArt.org 6. The Bite and Brew of Salem July 25-27, 2014 Salem's Riverfront Park, downtown Salem The Bite & Brew of Salem, located at Salem's Riverfront Park, is a three-day festival featuring over 15 bands on two outdoor stages and brings you several local eateries, 60+ beers on tap, Willamette Valley wines and endless entertainment for kids of all ages. Take advantage of the warm weather and bring your family for a relaxing day in the park and enjoy listening to our incredible line up of northwest talent. As the night goes on, put on your party dress and invite your friends down for Salem's greatest reunion! www.salembiteandbrew.com 7. ONG Hoopla XVI August 2-3, 2014 Oregon State Capital Building The ONG Hoopla tournament is considered to be the 'grand-daddy' and largest of Oregon's 3-on-3 tournaments! Spectators will enjoy watching these highly competitive games as well as numerous contests and events including the Salem Radiology Consultants Slam Dunk Contest and the Columbia Bank 3-Point Shootout. Be sire to join us for the 2-on-2 Tournament at in the Salem Conference Center courtyard the Thursday of Tournament Week. 6:30pm-8:30pm www.onghoopla.com 8. Fourth Annual Great Salem Race August 16, 2014 South Courtyard of the Salem Convention Center An annual favorite of ours and just plain fun! Just ask anyone who has ever competed or watched in past events. Group of 2-4 participants per team race through town solving clues and completing challenges. This is public event and kids are encouraged! Group of 2-4 participants per team will compete. Families, friends, co-workers, churches, youth groups, sports teams, and businesses are all encouraged to come out and show support for your team! Registration is OPEN NOW and starts at just $35 per-team. thegreatsalemrace.com 9. Oregon State Fair August 22-September 1, 2014 Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem 2014 is the 149th Oregon State Fair with over 9,000 things to eat, drink and enjoy. As an added bonus, Bentley's Grill will be participating in Pairings, a wonderful evening of outdoor gourmet cuisine, Oregon wines, and dancing to the sounds of nationally known entertainment (August 15, 2014 − 4:00 to 9:00 pm)! For more info, visit oregonstatefair.org photo credit: docoverachiever via photopin cc