Table wines and malt beverages with an alcohol content of 14% or less and packaged in less than kegs may be consumed only in reservable picnic areas designated by sign. Any beverage with an alcohol content over 14% is not allowed anywhere in the Salem park system. Alcohol permit fee: $50.

The City of Salem has several soccer and softball fields suitable for use by groups which wish to add a little fun and recreation to a company picnic, birthday party, or group meeting.

Portable stoves and barbeque grills may be used in any area when operated safely. Hot coals must be removed from the park.

The spacious interior and accessible parking of Center 50+ (2615 Portland Rd NE) make it an ideal location for weddings, family gatherings, or other special events. Reservable areas can accommodate groups as small as ten or as large as 300. Contact the Center directly at 503-588-6303 to schedule your next special event.

Depending on the scope and size of your special event, your group may be required to provide a Certificate of Insurance naming the City of Salem as an additional insured. In most cases, a Certificate of Insurance is required when special events are open to attendance by the general public. The City's Public Events Supervisor will help you determine whether your event will be required to obtain General Liability insurance. For more information contact City of Salem Recreation staff at ParksandRecreation@cityofsalem.net.

At a minimum, reservation groups are expected to insure that their reserved area is clean and all garbage is deposited in appropriate receptacles. Please report any damage to the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department.

Scoop and leash laws apply!

Most reservations must be made in person, in advance (a minimum of five working days for parks), at the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department. Please call ahead to check availability. Remember: The earlier you make reservations, the better your selection for dates and locations.

Only specific City of Salem parks are reservable. Click here for a list of these reservable facilities as well as availability, costs, and to make reservations. City of Salem parks which are not included in that list are available only on a drop-in, first-come, first-served basis.

Several permits are now available online, in PDF format. To submit these documents, first print them from your computer. Fill them out, then mail them to our office or submit them in person.

Pringle Hall offers a clean and attractive location for weddings, meetings, family reunions, retreats, and other special events. Pringle Hall includes two meeting rooms and a full-service kitchen. It's located in a beautiful park setting just a few blocks from downtown Salem.

Riverfront Park is located in downtown Salem on the banks of the beautiful Willamette River. This 22-acre event park is home to the Salem Riverfront Carousel, AC Gilbert's Discovery Village, the Eco-Earth Globe, and the Willamette Queen Sternwheeler. Riverfront Park hosts many annual events such as the Bite of Salem, World Beat Festival, Holiday Tree Lighting, concerts, car shows, and many other exciting community events. Riverfront Park is also available for company picnics, weddings, birthday parties, and other large group functions.

Several Salem parks are suitable for runs and/or walks. The Department's Public Events Supervisor will assist you in finding a location to meet your needs. Other permits may be necessary, depending on the scope and size of your event.

Use of amplified sound equipment must receive prior approval from the Public Events Supervisor and may require a Noise Variance Permit. Noise that disturbs others or that exceeds maximum decibel levels under City ordinance is not permitted.

Some large events may require the temporary closure of a city street.