Salem Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Salem and surrounding areas
Salem welcomes the festive season with a warm mix of Christmas markets, things to do, and neighborhood charm along the Willamette River and Riverfront Carousel. From Magic at the Mill to Salem Holiday Market, you'll find holiday attractions, twinkling lights, and seasonal activities that bring Salem's downtown to life. Bundle up for evening light displays along the waterfront, browse local makers at Christmas markets, and enjoy family-friendly activities that make the festive season in Salem feel cozy and inviting.
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Christmas Markets
33 eventsHandcrafted carousel animals with local stories
Christmas Lights
18 eventsThousands of twinkling lights and a Holiday Night Market
Christmas Shows
16 eventsLive musical performance of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
Christmas Parties
6 eventsPortland's largest Christmas bar crawl with free venue entry
Other Christmas Activities
26 eventsHands-on holiday wreath and centerpiece creation workshop.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Magic at the Mill
Thousands of twinkling lights and a Holiday Night Market
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Christmas Storybook Land
(Albany)
Indoor winter wonderland with storybook scenes and free admission.
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Salem's Riverfront Carousel Holiday Events
Handcrafted carousel animals with local stories
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The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas
(Corvallis)
Live musical performance of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
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Portland Winter Light Festival
(Portland)
Citywide free light festival powered by volunteers.
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Safeway Winter Wonderland powered by Dave's Killer Bread
(Portland)
Largest drive-thru holiday light show in the Pacific Northwest.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Salem
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Salem.
Light The World Corvallis
Experience the spirit of Christmas through service and music at Light The World...
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See all in Wilsonville →Salem Christmas FAQ
Salem often hosts several large annual Christmas events, including major holiday markets and community tree lighting ceremonies. These events typically draw significant crowds and feature a variety of festive activities.
Salem's holiday traditions often blend historical charm with modern festivities, sometimes including unique historical reenactments or themed events that reflect the city's rich past.
Residential neighborhoods throughout Salem, particularly those with established homes and active community associations, are often the best places to find impressive Christmas light displays.
Christmas markets and local maker events are frequently held in Salem's downtown areas, community centers, and sometimes in historic districts during the holiday season.
Exploring neighborhood light displays, attending free public tree lightings, and enjoying festive window shopping are great free or budget-friendly options in Salem.
Families with kids in Salem can enjoy visiting Santa, attending kid-friendly holiday shows, exploring festive markets, and viewing neighborhood light displays.