The Salem Arts Festival is where creativity and community come together to celebrate what makes our historic city truly special. For 18 years, this beloved annual celebration has brought together thousands of neighbors, visitors, and artists to transform downtown Salem into a vibrant showcase of local talent and artistic spirit.

This year is extra special. The 2026 festival marks Salem's 400+ anniversary—four centuries of creative heritage, innovation, and artistic expression that continues to define our city today. It's a milestone worth celebrating, and we're doing it the way Salem does best: through art, community, and connection.

From the moment you step into the festival, you'll find something that sparks your imagination. Watch live performances unfold across multiple outdoor stages, including our intimate Tiny Dance Stage platforms. Explore the juried artisan marketplace where local makers and creatives share their one-of-a-kind work. Experience the energy of our 10th anniversary Mural Slam as artists transform blank canvases into stunning murals right before your eyes on Artists' Row. And don't miss the chance to contribute to our Community Art Project—an ever-evolving installation made possible by hundreds of community members working together.

We believe art belongs to everyone. That's why the Salem Arts Festival is completely free and designed for all ages. Whether you're discovering new artists in our juried gallery, dancing along to live music, or getting hands-on with interactive art-making activities, there's always a way to be part of the creative experience.

A collaboration between Salem Main Streets and Creative Collective, the festival reflects our shared commitment to supporting local artists and strengthening our creative economy. We know that when artists thrive, our entire community benefits—culturally, economically, and socially. Every performance, every artwork, every creative connection made during the festival helps build a more vibrant, resilient Salem.

Join us June 5-7, 2026, as we celebrate both our 18th annual festival and Salem's remarkable 400+ years of creativity. Together, we'll honor our artistic past while creating new memories and connections that will inspire the next chapter of Salem's creative story.