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Olde Salem Days
Salem, VA
Virginia's premier arts and crafts festival
About
Experience Virginia's premier outdoor festival, Olde Salem Days, a vibrant celebration of community and creativity. This beloved annual event transforms Downtown Salem into a bustling marketplace featuring a diverse array of artisans, unique crafts, and delicious food vendors. It's the perfect opportunity to discover local talent, find one-of-a-kind treasures, and connect with neighbors and friends in a festive atmosphere.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Duration
All day
Ages
All ages
Schedule
Held the second Saturday of September. Setup: Streets barricaded until 6:00am. Crafter vehicles allowed in from 6:00am to 8:30am. Breakdown: Sales stop at 4:30pm. Breakdown must be completed by 5:30pm. Streets open to crafter vehicles only from 4:30pm.
Organizer
Rotary Club of Salem
Practical Information
Parking
Crafter vehicles allowed to enter event area to setup starting at 6:00am. All crafter vehicles must exit the event area no later than 8:30am. Crafter vehicles only allowed to enter event area for breakdown starting at 4:30pm. Must be off the street by 5:30pm.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Food vendors available
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to explore the full range of artisan offerings before the crowds build, especially if you're looking for unique handmade items.
- Check the event's website for specific vendor application deadlines if you're interested in participating as an artisan or food vendor in future years.
- Plan your parking strategy in advance, as Main Street will be closed to west-bound traffic and become one-way after 7 AM on event day.
- Bring cash for purchases, as many local artisans may not accept credit card payments.
- Consider visiting the Car Show section for a display of classic and custom vehicles, adding another layer of interest to the festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of items are crafters allowed to sell at Olde Salem Days?
Only handmade or hand-altered arts and crafts are allowed. Bake sale items must be home-baked goods only. Anyone selling items that are not handmade, hand-altered, or home-baked will be promptly removed from the show and may be prohibited from future participation.
What size is each crafter space?
All spaces are on the street, adjacent to the sidewalk, and measure 15 feet wide, extending 10 feet from the sidewalk into the street. Storage or display of items on sidewalks is prohibited to keep them clear for pedestrians.
What happens if I arrive late or must cancel last minute?
If you know you cannot set up in the allotted time, call the Rotary Club of Salem at (540) 772-8871 and leave a message before 8:15 AM on the event day. Failure to contact them may result in forfeiture of your space and entry fee.
Are generators or trailers allowed?
Absolutely no generators or trailers are allowed at the event.
When may I set up my space?
Streets are barricaded until 6:00 AM. Crafter vehicles are allowed to enter the event area for setup from 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM. All crafter vehicles must exit the event area no later than 8:30 AM.