SALEM IS MOPO SEASONS spring and summer in the salem area SPRING n What to Do Every March dozens of cherry-blossom trees bloom around the Oregon State Capitol, and it’s the perfect time to take a self-guided tour of the grounds. The Capital building is undergoing construction with tours resuming January 2025 — access is limited. In May Schreiner’s Gardens are a magical explosion of color, and in late spring, the wineries and farm stands along Polk County’s Great Oaks Food Trail open up, enticing visitors with succulent berries, hazelnuts, cheeses and honeys. The farmlands and tasting rooms around Aurora also burst to life in late spring — check out the Old Aurora Colony Museum and the town’s bustling antiquing scene, as well. On the arts and events scene, immerse yourself in the sounds of the Oregon Symphony at Willamette University, and cheer on Salem’s pro basketball team, the Salem Capitals, from a courtside seat at the Salem Armory. n What to Wear April and May temperatures can reach the high 60s with sun breaks throughout the day; dress in layers and bring an umbrella. SUMMER n What to Do Every Saturday the Salem Saturday Market bursts with more than 150 vendors just one block from the Salem Capitol Mall; smaller versions of the market pop up around town every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. If you’d like to harvest your own bounty, Boones Ferry Berry Farms in Hubbard and Perryhill Farm in Dallas have fields of U-pick berries. Outdoor adventurers can paddle the 187-mile Willamette River Water Trail with a tour from Independence Kayak Rentals or climb a 300-foot old-growth tree with a guide from Tree Climbing at Silver Falls. Sports fans will want to catch the Best in the West Classic Soap Box Derby held late May in Bush’s Pasture Park. Event seekers can experience global food and music at the World Beat Festival and watch dancers compete at the Grand Ronde Contest Powwow. Fourth of July in the town of Independence sparkles with parades and fireworks. Don’t miss the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Salem Art Fair & Festival in September. n What to Wear Summer runs in the perfect 70s and 80s; shorts and tank tops are the way to go. Nights can cool down, so bring a light jacket. Sunscreen and bug spray are a good idea, too. Joshua Rainey Perryhill Farm TravelSalem.com 8
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