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As we move further into May, the Willamette Valley is finally shifting into that vibrant spring energy we’ve all been waiting for. This weekend is a perfect time to explore our local nurseries or catch one of the many Mother’s Day events popping up around Salem.
In this edition, we’re highlighting a few standout small businesses and local gatherings that make our corner of Oregon such a great place to call home.
🏙️ Friendly faces for Downtown Salem
The gist: Salem City Council voted unanimously on April 27 to look into creating a downtown ambassador program. Similar to programs in other Oregon cities, ambassadors would patrol downtown, help respond to business concerns, and connect people experiencing homelessness with support.
Why it matters: Downtown safety and cleanliness have been a big focus for city leaders and local businesses. An ambassador program could add a more visible, helpful presence downtown and make the area feel more welcoming for everyone who lives, works, shops, or visits there.
🐈 Periwinkle’s 70-Mile journey and a happy homecoming
The Gist: After disappearing from West Salem on April 4, a 4-year-old cat named Periwinkle was found 18 days later in the Tillamook State Forest. A woman spotted her near the Wilson River Highway and took her to a vet, where a microchip scan linked the adventurous feline back to Tanna Trueblood’s family. Despite being 70 miles from home, Periwinkle returned healthy, though a little dusty from her mysterious travels.
Why It Matters: It’s a heartwarming reminder of how much our local pets mean to us and a perfect example of why microchipping is so vital for bringing lost family members home.
🍷 Celebrate Mom: Vineyard Brunches & Local Bites
Let someone else handle the cooking while Mom handles the relaxation. Whether she’s dreaming of a gourmet vineyard breakfast, a casual food park outing, or a classic homestyle feast, the valley has plenty of ways to say thanks. ✨
Grab a spot at one of these local favorites and let her enjoy being the guest of honor!
🥂 Willamette Valley Vineyards | 05/09 | Gourmet tableside service featuring orange and ricotta pancakes in a grand setting | More
🍷 Cória Estates | 05/10 | Churro French toast and Eggs Benedict paired with a floral boutique bar | More
🥞 Ankeny Vineyard | 05/10 | All-day a la carte brunch with fresh flower bouquets and estate mimosas | More
🍳 The Yard Food Park | 05/10 | Casual food cart brunch featuring a dedicated Mimosa and Bloody Mary bar | More
🧺 Riverview Park | 05/10 | Annual potluck-style picnic with yard games; bring your own lawn chair or blanket | More
🥗 Zenith Vineyard | 05/10 | Unforgettable vineyard brunch featuring frittatas, cinnamon brioche, and Sparkling Brut Rosé | More
🐻 Black Bear Diner | 05/10 | Homestyle breakfast, Eggs Benedict, and slow-roasted prime rib dinner served all day | More
🍷 Salem Mother’s Day Cheat Sheet
💐 If you’re just now realizing it's Mother's Day week, take a breath. You can still pull off a win without the last-minute stress.
The local scene is making it easy this year with a mix of creative workshops and relaxed markets. From vibrant "Hello Sunshine" bouquets to hand-delivered garden roses, here is the local lineup to help you celebrate her.
🍪 Sweetly Baked | 05/08 | Relaxed cookie frosting class for moms with snacks, drinks, and sweet conversation | More
🛍️ Kingdom City Coffeehouse | 05/08 | Intentional market featuring local makers, fresh florals, and a live book signing by Bethany Butler | More
💐 Pemberton’s Flowers | Surprise Mom with a hand-delivered Jewel Garden or Pink Rhapsody bouquet from a local favorite | More
🌹 Flowers & Gifts At Roth's | Bright, seasonal arrangements like the "Hello Sunshine" or "Amore Bouquet" with same-day delivery | More
🛍️ Stoller Family Estate | 05/10 | Open-house market featuring handcrafted local goods and lawn games for kids | More
Click here to be the business everyone hears about next week!
🥕 Salem Thursday Market Opening | Greenway on Edgewater St | 05/07 | More
Seasonal produce and artisanal goods in a scenic outdoor setting. Bring the kids.
🧡 Be Like Blippi Tour | Elsinore Theatre | 05/08 | More
Interactive adventure featuring music, dancing, and giant construction vehicles.
🎮 Satellite Gaming Showdown | New Hope Foursquare | 05/08 | More
Youth gaming tournament featuring competitive Minecraft, Fortnite, and local prizes.
👟 STRIDE 5k Run/Walk | Bush's Pasture Park | 05/09 | More
Active morning exploration through scenic hard and soft park trails.
🌙 Baby Pajama Jam | Salem Public Library | 05/09 | More
Joyful daytime dance party for little ones in their favorite cozy sleepwear.
⚔️ Galactic Heroes Takeover | Salem's Riverfront Carousel | 05/10 | More
Intergalactic workshop teaching hero techniques and cinematic movements.
🌋 Volcano: Science Comedy | Historic Grand Theatre | 05/08 | More
Explosive stand-up set from Ben Miller blending volcanology with sharp, nerdy wit.
🚗 Salem Classic Car Auction | Oregon State Fair Grounds | 05/08–05/09 | More
Two-day auction of classic muscle cars.
🎸 Richard Marx: Live | Elsinore Theatre | 05/09 | More
Polished pop-rock ballads with intimate, melodic storytelling and smooth vocals.
🎨 Surface Tension Exhibit | Hallie Ford Museum | 05/09 | More
Final opportunity to view diverse senior thesis artworks across multiple media.
🍸 Art After Dark | Salem on the Edge | 05/09 | More
Passionate performing arts showcase paired with craft cocktails and gallery works.
🎸 Infamous Soul | The Yard Food Park | 05/09 | More
Lively performance featuring a variety of popular hits, local food, and craft brews.
Thanks for reading! We’ll have more updates for you next week!
