There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy in Salem, Oregon – and September brings its own reasons to get outside, explore the city and enjoy the start of fall.

From the Oregon State Fair and outdoor concerts to farmers markets, food festivals and adventures along the Willamette River, Salem’s late-summer calendar is filled with things to do. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, visiting friends and family or looking for a reason to explore, August and September are great months to experience the city!

Experience the Oregon State Fair in Salem 

August 28 – September 7, 2026 | Oregon State Fairgrounds

The unofficial transition from summer to fall begins with one of Salem’s biggest annual events: the Oregon State Fair

Running August 28 through September 7, the fair brings carnival rides, live entertainment, food, competitions, exhibits, animals, vendors and classic fair traditions to the Oregon State Fairgrounds.

Whether you’re there for the midway, livestock exhibits, fair food or live performances, the Oregon State Fair is an easy way to spend a full day – or more – with the fair running through Labor Day weekend, it’s also a natural excuse to turn a day trip into a Salem weekend getaway.

Catch an Outdoor Concert at Riverfront Park

August 28 | Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater

Summer isn’t over quite yet. On August 28, the Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater will host a Concert in the Park from 6:30pm –9 p.m.

Set along the Willamette River in downtown Salem, the amphitheater is one of the city’s favorite spots for outdoor entertainment. Bring a picnic, settle in with friends and enjoy an evening of live music before summer gives way to fall.

Staying at The Holman Hotel makes it easy to explore downtown Salem Oregon and Riverfront Park, with many of these late-summer and early-fall activities just minutes from the hotel.

Shop the Salem Saturday Market

Saturdays through October | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

September is harvest season in the Willamette Valley, making fall an especially good time to visit the Salem Saturday Market held in downtown Salem, Oregon. Held Saturdays through October, the market offers seasonal produce, local products and a taste of the agricultural bounty that surrounds Oregon’s capital city.

Saddle Up for Boot, Scoot & Brew

September 12, 2026 | Riverfront Park

Looking for something a little different in September? Boot, Scoot & Brew brings country-inspired fun to the Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater on Saturday, September 12.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering a full day of entertainment, beverages and community fun in Riverfront Riverfront Park in downtown Salem, Oregon.

With the Willamette River as a backdrop, it’s another opportunity to experience the relaxed, outdoor atmosphere that makes downtown Salem especially enjoyable in late summer and early fall.

Explore the Willamette River and Riverfront Park

You don’t need a special event to enjoy Salem this time of year. With the Willamette River and Riverfront Park just steps from downtown, cooler fall temperatures are ideal for a walk, a leisurely afternoon outdoors or an evening along the water.

For something a little more memorable, Travel Oregon lists Sunset Paddle Tours on September 4, 11 and 18. It’s a beautiful way to experience the Willamette River as summer gives way to fall.

Plan your Salem Oregon Getaway

The Holman Hotel located in downtown Salem Oregon puts you in the heart of all the fun, making it easy to spend the day exploring and return to a comfortable downtown home base at the end of the day.

Planning a Salem getaway? Book your stay at The Holman Hotel and experience the best of late summer and fall in Salem, Oregon.