SALEM IS MOPO MONTH BY MONTH JANUARY Sample Oregon wines, ciders and brews at the First Taste Oregon event every January. For a taste of the region’s natural beauty, venture to Silver Falls State Park and hike behind the breathtaking waterfalls, which are at their most glorious in winter. Just be sure to dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes, as trails can be slippery. FEBRUARY Winter is the perfect time to catch a live theater, dance or music performance at the historic Elsinore Theatre. Dive even deeper into the region’s art scene at Willamette University’s Hallie Ford Museum of Art. Salem’s Chomp! Chocolate believes that making plant-based chocolate is an art form. Taste your way through a guided factory tour and judge for yourself. MARCH Behold acres of colorful tulips at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn, and then head into the quaint downtown for authentic Mexican restaurants and shops like Lupita’s, El Mercadito, Paleteria El Paisanito and Ani’s Party Supply. Don’t miss the historical exhibits and theater at the restored Woodburn Museum. month-by-month itinerary Kent Soule Oregon State Fair Joshua Rainey Taylor Higgins tktkkt St. Paul Rodeo Oregon State Fair Silver Falls State Park Elsinore Theatre Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival Deepwood Museum and Gardens JULY Saddle up for the St. Paul Rodeo, a Fourth of July tradition for over 80 years. Watch classic rodeo events from steer wrestling and bull riding to barrel racing. Then wind down at the nearby French Prairie Gardens and historic Newell Pioneer Village, where you can wander educational trails during peak flower season. AUGUST It’s simply not summer until you’ve been to the Oregon State Fair. With carnival rides, petting zoos and live concerts, it’s big fun for the entire family. Experience traditional dancing, drumming and singing from the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde at the Grand Ronde Powwow. The celebration also features handmade crafts and food. SEPTEMBER Come for the Salem Art Fair & Festival and spend the weekend perusing art from all over the country, watching live performances, and sampling delicious food and drinks. Then escape the crowds at the nearby Deepwood Musuem and Bush House Museum, and take a stroll in the tranquil gardens. TravelSalem.com 32
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