Photos by DJQ Media
SALEM, Mass.— Salem Haunted Happenings, the annual citywide event that attracts Halloween lovers worldwide, will offer fall-themed activities throughout October. In addition to the festival’s crowd favorites, such as the Grand Parade and street performances, there are hundreds of other events hosted by museums and attractions in Salem. Whether it be an after-hours ghost hunt, a historical walking tour, or a costume ball, there is no shortage of events.
“The community plans for October all year long so that we can offer a fun experience to our visitors,” said Stacia Cooper, Interim Director of Destination Salem. “Our biggest recommendation is to plan your trip before coming to Salem. There are many places to find event information, make reservations, and plan your transportation to make Salem more enjoyable.”
Fantastic ways to kick off the season include the Grand Parade on Thursday, October 5, and Mayor’s Night Out on Friday, October 6. Another traditional favorite is the Howl-o-ween Pet Parade on Saturday, October 14. The Haunted Happenings Marketplace on the Salem Common and other street fairs take place throughout the month, and the festivities wrap up with music and fireworks on Halloween night.
Little Shop of Horrors Cosplay Haunted Happenings in Salem. Photo by Creative Collective
In addition to the longtime favorites, new things are happening this year around Salem Haunted Happenings. Attractions throughout Salem offer many activities, including new ones such as Kid’s Pub events, Haunted Speakeasy at Hamilton Hall, Salem Night Faire, Spirits Speak in Salem at the Hawthorne Hotel, and Wicked Night on the Wharf. At the Peabody Essex Museum, see objects that the Salem Witch Trials victims and accusers owned and touched in an exhibition that puts the tragic events in a new light. In the new exhibition BATS!, explore why bats are not only creatures of the night but also daytime participants in our food systems and growing seasons.
Making advanced purchases and reservations where available is strongly recommended. The City of Salem advises all travelers planning to visit during the weekends in October to take the train, ride the ferry, or use satellite parking. For public transportation and parking information and a complete list of Salem Haunted Happenings programs, visit hauntedhappenings.org and download the Salem App.
About Salem Haunted Happenings
Created in 1982 to extend the tourism season past Labor Day, Salem Haunted Happenings is believed to be one of the largest celebrations of Halloween in the world. More than a half-million people from around the world travel to Salem each October to celebrate Halloween, commemorate the events of the Salem Witch Trials, and immerse themselves in Salem’s unique atmosphere. For complete information, visit HauntedHappenings.org.
About Salem, Massachusetts
Salem is a destination recognized worldwide for its rich history, including the tragic Salem Witch Trials of 1692, the glorious maritime era that left its indelible mark on Salem through architecture, museums, and artifacts, and for its month-long celebration of Halloween. Approximately 1.8 million people visit Salem annually, generating nearly $140 million in tourism spending and supporting 1,000 jobs.
About Destination Salem
As the destination marketing organization for the City of Salem, Destination Salem cooperatively markets Salem as one of Massachusetts’ best destinations for families, couples, and domestic and international travelers who are seeking an authentic New England experience, cultural enrichment, American history, fine dining, unique shopping, and fun. For more information, visit Salem.org.
