Holiday Village - Photo Story

 

Holiday Village
Oregon State Fair

Salem, Oregon

    The Holiday Village at the Oregon State Fair offers many activities, snacks, and local vendors for those in attendance. Of the first people I spoke with, Caroll and Debbie of the Oregon Beverage Services were very friendly. Over the few days that I ventured into the lively venue, they shared with me that their company had been participating in this event for a handful of years. Although the amount had not been clearly defined, Debbie reported that she loved every part of it. It shares Holiday cheer and brings in steady revenue to their small business. This was Caroll's first year coming in person himself, a task that was usually in the hands of his wife and children, as he usually operates behind the scenes. He founded the business himself, after building his career in the beverage industry, and currently co-owns it with his wife Debbie. When I asked him, Caroll said that everything was going well so far, as the season was just beginning. 

    Another vendor participating in the event is Keely Kytola. She owns a homestead called Indie Acres, operating out of Lebanon, Oregon. There, she raises many animals and creates her own freeze-dried candies. Among her displays, she incorporates these elements alongside homemade hot chocolate, eggnog taffy, essential oils, and dolls. This was Keely's first year bringing Indie Acres to the Holiday Village, as her business has just begun to take off this past year. She started planning this idea around September of 2023 and has learned much since the beginning. As she begins to participate in more local events, she's growing confident and assured. She's enjoyed the kick-off of the holiday season and is excited to see what's next. 

    Alongside the local vendors, the Holiday Village offers various types of fair-themed food. Two food trucks lined the path from the parking lot and a few more were within the building. Grandma's Kitchen was among the ones inside. Each day that I returned to the space, without fail, there was a line to obtain their warm treats. The evenings were among the busiest times for this vendor, as the cold began to set in more apparent around then. I was one of the many who decided to warm up with a cinnamon roll, which did the trick to combat the thirty-degree weather. It was the perfect size and was full of flavor. While a bit pricy, I understood that it was going back to the community to help keep events like this open.

    The venue unfolds into a carnival zone just past the miniature food court. Eight rides were brought to the event by Rainier Amusements and can be made available to guests by purchasing tickets. They include the Giant Wheel, Eruption, Sizzler, Flying Elephant, Merry-Go-Round, Circus Train, Slide, and Route 66. The picture above was taken in wait for Flying Elephant, found towards the back right of the venue. Like the woman and child, many people fought the cold with large blankets. The sweet moment between the two was my favorite highlight of that night. A similar sentimental feeling was shared among the other families who came to the village during this time. It was beautiful to see so many people sharing a joyous time in the community. 

    Another popular ride was the Merry-Go-Round, located at the front of the carnival zone. Children and adults alike frequented this attraction often during my visits. This girl rode alone as her parents watched in pride from the other side of the safety railing. Equally high spirits were among the children who rode with their parents standing beside them, a hand keeping them upright upon the horses. From what I gathered, the Merry-Go-Round is a timeless classic that brings happiness to all. No amount of chill in the air could deter it. 

    The Holiday Village is located at 2330 17th Street NE in Salem, Oregon. It operates from November twenty-second through December twenty-second, Thursday through Sunday. On weekdays, it is open from five to ten. On weekends, it is open from eleven to ten. Parking is five dollars to enter the venue or free to those who just wish to see the light show. Magic of the Lights is the drive-through light display that goes around the village from sundown to closing. Children also have the opportunity to meet Santa on the weekends from eleven to seven. Santa's hut can be found past the main venue in a smaller building to the left.