Cherry Blossom Day, free museum tours highlight Salem events this week

From a motorcycle show to Indigenous basket weaving, there's plenty to do in Salem this week.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:55pm

Salem is hosting a variety of events this week, including the return of Cherry Blossom Day at the Oregon Capitol, free tours of the Deepwood Museum house and gardens, and an indoor motorcycle show at the fairgrounds. Other highlights include a demonstration on Kalapuyan culture at the Salem Public Library and a low-sensory day at the Willamette Heritage Center.

Why it matters

These events showcase Salem's vibrant community and diverse cultural offerings, providing residents and visitors alike with opportunities to explore the city's history, arts, and natural beauty. The variety of activities caters to different interests and age groups, making Salem an appealing destination for a wide range of people.

The details

The Cherry Blossom Day celebration at the Oregon Capitol will feature music and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, a Japanese tea ceremony, and Ikebana flower arranging. The Deepwood Museum & Gardens is hosting a free two-day event with a rare plant sale, guided tours of the museum's nature trails, and history talks. The indoor motorcycle show at the fairgrounds will include custom motorcycles, a tattoo expo, live racing, music, art, and vendors. Stephanie Craig, an Indigenous seventh-generation basket weaver, will lead a demonstration on Kalapuyan culture at the Salem Public Library. The Willamette Heritage Center is offering a low-sensory day for people with disabilities, with a self-guided tour and quiet activities.

  • The Cherry Blossom Day celebration at the Oregon Capitol is on Saturday, March 21.
  • The Deepwood Museum & Gardens event is on Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21.
  • The indoor motorcycle show at the fairgrounds is on Saturday, March 21 and Sunday, March 22.
  • The Kalapuyan culture demonstration at the Salem Public Library is on Saturday, March 21.
  • The low-sensory day at the Willamette Heritage Center is on Monday, March 23.

The players

Stephanie Craig

An Indigenous seventh-generation basket weaver who will host a demonstration on Kalapuyan culture at the Salem Public Library.

Deepwood Museum & Gardens

A museum and gardens that will host a free two-day event with a rare plant sale, guided tours, and history talks.

Willamette Heritage Center

A museum that is offering a low-sensory day for people with disabilities, with a self-guided tour and quiet activities.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Salem, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

From celebrating the beauty of cherry blossoms to exploring the city's rich cultural heritage, this week's events in Salem offer something for everyone. These diverse offerings showcase the vibrant community and the city's commitment to providing inclusive and accessible experiences for residents and visitors alike.