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It’s shaping up to be a lively mid-March around Salem. Between St. Patrick’s festivities, roller derby action, and a few fun community gatherings, there’s no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the weekend.
We’re also spotlighting a couple local favorites this week, from cozy Spanish bites downtown to a barber shop known for its sharp cuts and friendly vibe. And in city news, there’s a conversation brewing about short-term rental fees that could affect how tourism is funded in the future. As always, thanks for reading and being part of this growing little corner of Salem.
In today’s issue:
🏡 Salem weighs new short-term rental fee
🍽️ Cozy Taberna delights with seafood favorites
💈 Javi’s Fades delivers sharp, precise cuts
🛼 Salem Slam, Franken-stuffies, & Fran Lebowitz
🍷 Cozy Spanish Bites & Big Flavor
249 Liberty St NE #140, Salem
Blink and you might miss it, but once you step inside The Cozy Taberna, you’ll understand why locals keep coming back. The vibe is warm and intimate, perfect for lingering over plates like patatas bravas, clams cataplana, or the richly sauced cedar plank salmon.
Regulars swear by the squid ink pasta, and dessert almost always means the molten chocolate cake. A bright Paloma or a creative non-alcoholic drink rounds out the night nicely. Reservations are a good idea.
💈 Sharp Cuts and Skilled Barbers
327 State St, Salem
Javi’s Fades Barber Shop is known for detailed haircuts, clean fades, and barbers who truly take their time with every client. Customers say the team is skilled, patient, and attentive, whether it’s a custom style, beard trim, or kids’ haircut.
The shop has a welcoming atmosphere with great music and friendly conversation, making each visit comfortable and relaxed. Many clients return regularly thanks to the consistent quality and the confidence that comes with a fresh, well-done cut.
Click here to be the business everyone hears about next week!
🏠 Salem Eyes Expanding Tourism Fee
The Gist: Salem is considering a 2% tourism fee for short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO, similar to hotels. The money would fund Travel Salem’s marketing efforts, but some rental owners argue it’s unfair, especially for small, host-occupied homes. The city is also working to bring hundreds of unlicensed operators into compliance.
Why It Matters: If approved, the fee would increase the cost for short-term rental guests and provide additional funding for tourism promotion. The proposal comes as the city continues addressing how short-term rentals are regulated and how tourism-related costs are shared.
🧵 DIY Franken-stuffies for Teens | Public Library | 03/13 | More
Teens craft unique stitched critters from provided materials.
🛒 Customer Appreciation Day | South Salem Grocery Outlet | 03/14 | More
Save 10%, win prizes, and enjoy giveaways during this shopper celebration.
🍳 Brooks Breakfast | Brooks Fire Station | 03/14-03/15 | More
Delicious breakfast supporting Marion County Fire Volunteer Foundation.
🍀 St. Patrick's 10 for $15 | Salem's Riverfront Carousel | 03/15 | More
Enjoy 10 rides for just $15 and hunt for hidden lucky prizes all day.
🚗 Trading Car Showcase & Collectible Show | Salem Scottish Rite Center | 03/15 | More
Browse collectible cars and enjoy free admission and parking at this fun Sunday event.
🐾 Doggone Fun Fashion Show & Fundraiser | Redwood Heights by Cogir | 03/19 | More
Pups strut, tails wag, and community comes together for a cause.
🛼 Salem Slam | The MadHouse | 03/13-03/15 | More
Top roller derby teams compete with food, vendors, and fun.
🎭 HYPROV: "Yes, It's Real" Tour | Elsinore Theatre | 03/14 | More
Laugh out loud with live hypnosis and improv in this one-of-a-kind show.
🦶 Free Foot Check Day | Good Feet Salem | 03/14 | More
Get expert foot evaluations and fittings to relieve pain and add comfort.
🎉 Party Time | South Liberty Bar | 03/14 | More
Dance the night away to classics from the 60s–90s at this packed venue.
🎤 An Evening with Fran Lebowitz | Salem's Historic Grand Theater | 03/14 | More
Laugh, think, and enjoy Fran Lebowitz’s sharp wit and cultural commentary.
💍 Love in Oregon Wedding Show | Oregon State Fairgrounds | 03/14-03/15 | More
Discover vendors, fashion shows, and prizes at this two-day wedding event.
Thanks for reading! We’ll have more updates for you next week!
