5 things to do in Salem this week: David Bowie tribute concert, sword fighting, winter skate night
Each week, Salem Reporter highlights a selection of upcoming local events.
For a more complete list, browse our events calendar here. You can submit an upcoming event here.
Here’s a roundup for the week from Thursday, Jan. 8, to Wednesday, Jan. 14.
*Starred events are free to attend, although they may include ticketed components or a suggested donation.
David Bowie tribute concert
Friday, Jan. 9: Numerous local bands and singers will take the stage during a David Bowie tribute concert at the Grand Theatre a day after the late singer’s birthday. Performers include Hexteria from Portland, David Fox from Portland punk band City of Pieces, Ronan Baker from the Salem-based group Light Treason and around a dozen more. Pre-sale tickets are available online for $23.50 with fees, while day-of tickets are $25. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the concert starts at 8 p.m. The theatre is at 191 High St. N.E.
Winter wonderland open skate
Friday, Jan. 9: Lace up your skates and put on a cozy sweater for a winter wonderland-themed skate night at the MadHouse, starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 each and skate rentals are $5. The rink is at 1335 Madison St. N.E.
Cake tasting
*Saturday, Jan. 10: A northeast Salem bakery, Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes, will have a free cake tasting event this weekend, open for all from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The tasting menu will include popular wedding cake flavors. Guests can taste as many flavors as desired. The bakery is at 2195 Hyacinth St N.E. Ste. 101.
Sword fighting open house
*Saturday, Jan. 10: Salem’s school of medieval combat, Seize the Vor, is hosting a two hour open house sword fighting class for ages 6 and up. The classes, starting at 2 p.m., are divided by age and span 30 minutes each: ages 6-12 at 2 p.m., ages 13-16 at 2:30 p.m. and adults and teens classes at 3 p.m. and 3:30p.m. There is no cost to attend. The studio is at 4240 25th Ave N.E. Ste. A.
Free classical music concert
*Sunday, Jan. 11: A trio of Camerata Musica musicians will fill the Salem Public Library Loucks Auditorium with classical music from 2:30-4:30 p.m. The group includes Katherine McLin on violin, Noah Seitz playing the cello and Andrew Campbell on piano. Admission is free. The library is at 585 Liberty St. S.E.
Have a news tip? Contact reporter Hailey Cook: [email protected] .
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Hailey Cook joined Salem Reporter in 2025, following the completion of an internship through the University of Oregon’s Charles Snowden Program for Excellence in Journalism. She works as a reporter and photojournalist, with a focus on business and entertainment, among other topics.
