Located in Willamette Valley, the city of Salem experiences a typical Marine West Coast climate with some hints of Mediterranean Climate. Like all the cities in the country, Salem has four distinct seasons – spring, summer, fall and winters. There is no best time to visit the city as it all depends on individual tastes and preferences. To make your holiday easier, we have compiled a seasonal holiday guide along with famous annual events taking place in Salem:
By M.O. Stevens (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons Spring Holiday in Salem (March, April, May)
Spring in the city is marked by rising temperatures and occasional rain showers. However, it is a great time to visit the city if you are a true nature lover. The entire city is beautifully decorated with fresh and colorful foliage. Moreover, all the gardens and parks in the city also become exceptionally stunning during this time. Since this is not a peak season, tourists can also take advantage of low hotel rates.
Salem Spring Temperature
Average temperature ranges from 37.2 to 67.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Annual precipitation occurs between the months of October and May.
Salem Spring Festivals
The Salem Film Festival (March)
Annual Social Pow Wow (March)
Willamette Valley Wine & Jazz Festival (March)
Salem Saturday Market (April)
Clothes to Pack
- Short and long sleeved shirts and T-shirts
- Sweater and jackets
- Jeans, long pants, closed shoes
- Pack in layers
Summer Holiday in Salem (June, July, August)
Summers in the city of Salem are dry and long and it best for adventurists for those who hiking, biking and trekking. The weather is comfortably warm and is perfect for outdoor activities. Tourists can also enjoy the full bloom in gardens and parks around the city. However, since this is also the main tourist season of Salem, it is best to book well in advance to avoid any obstacles.
Salem Summer Temperature
Average temperature ranges from 49.3 to 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers are dry with little or no rain at all in the city.
Salem Summer Festivals
World Beat Festival (June)
Annual Salem Local Championship (June)
Deepwood Wine and Jazz Fest (June)
Marion County Fair (July)
Salem Art Fair and Festival (July)
The Bite and Brew of Salem (July)
Capitol Pride (August)
Oregon State Fair (August to September)
Clothes to Pack
- Shorts, jeans and linen pants
- Short sleeve shirts and t-shirts
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes and flip-flops
- Sunglasses, sunhats and sunscreens
Fall Holiday in Salem (September, October, November)
As the summer season comes to an end in Salem city, hotel rates also start dropping along with the temperatures. However, it is best to wait until end of October for low hotel prices as summer tourists linger till the end of September.
Salem Fall Temperature
Average temperature ranges from 38.4 to 76.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Heavy rainfall might occur during late fall.
Salem Fall Festivals
Oregon State Fair (August to September)
Chef's Nite Out (October)
Clothes To Pack
- Long pants and jeans
- Sweater and light jacket
- Boots and closed-toed shoes
- Umbrellas and raincoats
Winter Holiday in Salem (December, January, February)
Winter season in Salem are characterized by heavy rainfall and low snowfall. In fact, heavy snow days are very rare in Salem city. Besides the rain, Salem becomes remarkably beautiful and one can indulge in a number of activities including enjoying the diverse culinary scene of the city. Moreover, since hotels slash their rates by almost half, this is the best time to visit if you want to do Salem at an affordable price.
Salem Winter Temperature
Average temperature ranges from 34 to 51.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Heavy rainfall occurs during winter season in Salem.
Salem Winter Festivals
Salem Coin and Stamp Show (December)
Holiday Market (December)
Star Trees Lighting (December)
Magic at the Mill (December)
Oregon Wine & Food Festival (January)
Oregon Wedding Showcase (January)
First Taste Oregon (January)
The Mid-Valley Video Festival (February)
Spring RV Show (February)
Clothes to Pack
- Warm sweaters and jackets
- Long sleeves shirts and t-shirts
- Denim jeans and long pants
- Closed shoes and boots
- Umbrellas
