Father’s Day weekend is here, and Salem has plenty of ways to celebrate without overcomplicating it. A good meal, a local drink, live music, or even just getting outside can make for a pretty great day.

We also found a few stories worth sharing, including some exciting changes happening around town and the people helping keep Salem strong.

The Gist: Portland General Electric has officially installed public EV chargers on power poles at 30 locations on Salem’s side streets, more than any other city in Oregon. First launched in 2023, the neighborhood program lets drivers use the OpConnect app to drop a charging cable right down from the pole to their car.

Why It Matters: This is a massive win for our neighbors who rent, live in apartments, or rely entirely on street parking without a private driveway. It brings charging right to where people actually live, making it way easier for everyone in Salem to go electric. It’s definitely a cool look for our local side streets!

The Gist: The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce named Pioneer Trust Bank its Business of the Year, recognizing the locally rooted bank's long-standing presence in the community.

Why It Matters: In a government town, a homegrown bank earning the Chamber's top honor is a quiet vote of confidence in Salem's own business backbone.

If Dad’s idea of a perfect afternoon involves a pint made forty feet away, point the car toward Santiam Brewing. Born from nine friends tasting good beer, this authentic British-style community pub keeps an easygoing atmosphere.

The main draw is fifteen house brews alongside a dedicated bar pulling cask-conditioned ales straight off the engines. Pair them with a proper scotch egg or comforting shepherd’s pie on the covered patio this Sunday.

Looking for a gift with lasting resonance this Father's Day? Willamette Valley Music Co. in the historic Oregon Building is a natural starting point.

Growing from the long-standing Kemtone Music and Repair, this locally owned space houses guitars, band instruments, and an in-house repair bench where you speak directly with the technician. Since Make Music Salem brings free performances to the city on June 21, a new instrument feels especially timely here.

✊🏾 Salem-Keizer Juneteenth Celebration | Salem Riverfront Park | 06/19 | More
Joyful community connection featuring live entertainment, local vendors, and crafts.

🩰 Premiere Academy Spring Recital | Elsinore Theatre | 06/20 | More
Young local dancers shine on the grand historic stage.

🍫 Rogue Chocolate Opening & Frozen Banana Day | The Reed Opera House | 06/20 | More
Custom-dipped treats and craft confectionery bars celebrate a storefront launch.

🎶 Make Music Day Salem | Citywide | 06/21 | More
Over two-hundred acts turn the entire city into a musical stage. Free.

⚾ Father's Day Baseball: Berries vs Pippins | Chemeketa Field | 06/21 | More
Crisp summer energy defines this festive, classic neighborhood minor league rivalry.

🎨 Watercolor for Summer | Salem Public Library | 06/22 | More
Refine your painting technique during this peaceful and creative morning!

🏆 Golden Bingo Party | Center 50+ | 06/18 | More
Festive anniversary dinner and games celebrating half a century of fun.

🚗 Father’s Day Car Show | Boone Ridge Retirement Community | 06/18 | More
Polished vintage vehicles fill the lot alongside sunny classic rock melodies.

🎨 Market for the Strange | The Historic Grand Ballroom | 06/20 | More
Vibrant night market showcasing eccentric local makers!

🍖 Father's Day BBQ & Cornhole Tournament | Cória Estates | 06/21 | More
Barbecue, cold pours, lawn games, and live music up the hill.

🍗 Father’s Day BBQ | Salem Elks Lodge #336 | Salem | 06/21 | More
Smoky grilled chicken and classic picnic favorites serve up lodge camaraderie.

🚶 Paddle Oregon: Back to Our River Roots | Willamette River Corridor | 06/25-06/28 | More
A multi-day guided river expedition packed with cultural storytelling and ecology.

Thanks for reading! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

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