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There’s something about the last stretch of August that always feels a little bittersweet. Summer is still very much here, but you can feel the season starting to turn, with Labor Day around the corner and back-to-school not far behind.
The Oregon State Fair opens this week, bringing the rides, food, animals and familiar favorites we’ve been waiting for, along with a few new attractions to check out.
There’s plenty of music under the stars, good food to linger over and a couple local stories worth knowing about. Hope everyone gets a few more great summer evenings in before the calendar moves on. Have a great week!
🎡 Oregon State Fair debuts new attractions
The Gist: The Oregon State Fair opens this Friday, August 28, and runs through September 7 in Salem. Highlights include four new Rainier Amusements Midway rides (featuring The Medusa thrill ride) and performances by All-Time Low and "Weird" Al Yankovich. Neighbors can also enjoy "America 250 Live," a free stunt and storytelling show celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary. Tickets start at $8 for kids, $10 for adults, or $25 for a family pass.
Why It Matters: Local families will notice major comfort upgrades alongside classic traditions like the Artisan Village and animal exhibits. CEO Kim Grewe-Powell noted that state grant funding provided 17 new water refill stations and a new PA system to keep fairgoers comfortable, hydrated, and connected.
🚑 One year in & our ambulances are keeping pace
The Gist: Salem Fire became the city's sole ambulance provider on July 1, 2025, replacing a private contractor. In its first six months, the city averaged about 55.8 transports a day, roughly 3.3% above its projection of 54, and added four EMS positions to keep up with demand.
Why It Matters: Even with the heavier workload, response-time compliance stayed above 90% in both Marion and Polk counties, a reassuring sign for anyone who ever has to dial 911. A complete first-year financial review is still pending as the city finalizes revenue and cost figures.
🎷 Live jazz, legendary pies, pure magic
1108 Broadway St NE, Salem
Say farewell to summer with a classic Oregon night out at Christo's! Since 1997, they have perfected the art of Italian-American comfort: from the famously crisp Atillo’s Garden pizza and rich fettuccine Alfredo to their top-rated arancini.
When the sun sets, the lounge shifts into one of the Northwest's premier jazz rooms, hosting legendary icons like the Mel Brown Trio. Warm hospitality and unbeatable rhythms make every visit feel like a special event.
🚴 High-gear local history on fresh trails
174 Commercial St NE, Salem
For over fifty years, The Bike Peddler has kept downtown rolling with expert service and zero pressure. Whether you need a quick ten-minute tricycle tire fix, an honest tune-up for a bike that sat for six years, or a new helmet, their knowledgeable crew has you covered.
They now sell Santa Cruz models like the Tall Boy, handle brand repairs, and host monthly second Sunday trail rides straight through late fall.
Click here to be the business everyone hears about next week!
🏃 Thursday Night Race | Bush's Pasture Park | 08/27 | More
A running series with friendly competition and free youth races.
🎡 Oregon State Fair | Oregon State Fairgrounds | 08/28 - 09/07 | More
Carnival rides, 4-H barns, and fair food through Labor Day.
🦴 Family Fun Friday: Archaeology | Willamette Heritage Center | 08/28 | More
Dig box exploration, artifact discovery, and interactive historical storytelling.
🎵 Concert in the Park | Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater | 08/28 | More Crisp open-air acoustics with relaxed lawn seating along the river.
🚗 WVSR Carousel Cruise Car Show | Riverfront Park | 08/29 | More
Classic hot rods, vintage automobiles, food trucks, and family park activities.
🎪 ServeFest 2026 | Lakepoint Community Church | 08/30 | More
Kids carnival games, food, family photos, and community resources.
✨ Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery | Elsinore Theatre | 08/28 | More
Witty cabaret harmonies, sharp comedic timing, and playful nostalgia.
🍅 Tomato Girl Supper | Noira | 08/28 | More
Multi-course alfresco dining with summer tomato harvests and fine pairings.
💃 Noche de Cumbia & Salsa Social | Xicha Brewing Norte | 08/29 | More
Latin rhythms, group dance instruction, and energetic dancing late into night.
🎧 The Experience | IKE Box Café | 08/29 | More
Intimate coffeehouse gathering: conversations and acoustic tunes.
🚶 Ampkwa Advocacy MMIP Awareness Walk | Riverfront Park | 08/30 | More
Reflection walk along the scenic promenade supporting unity and awareness.
Thanks for reading! We’ll have more updates for you next week!