People, places, events, and ideas shaping Essex County—reported and shared by Creative Collective. Search the archive or start with a story path below.

September 2, 2025
Featured image for “Salem Book Release Party for The Ashen War Saga by Dan LeFever”
Literature
Salem

Salem Book Release Party for The Ashen War Saga by Dan LeFever

by John Andrews
Lynn author Dan Le Fever returns with “In The Dragon’s Wake,” the gripping second installment of The Ashen War Saga. This alternate history fantasy blends revenge, adventure, and deep character development in a reimagined 1910 America. Readers can meet Le Fever at his upcoming Salem book release party on September 23 at Die With Your Boots On, where he’ll sign
September 2, 2025
August 31, 2025
Featured image for “Peabody International Festival 2025: 40 Years of Culture”
Festivals
Peabody

Peabody International Festival 2025: 40 Years of Culture

by John Andrews
Mark your calendars for Peabody International Festival 2025! This beloved cultural celebration returns Sunday, September 7, transforming downtown Peabody into a vibrant global village. Thousands of neighbors will gather to share food, music, and traditions at this FREE community event. Complete festival information can be found at the festival website.  A Festival Born from Vision, Built on Community Four decades
August 31, 2025
August 30, 2025
Featured image for “When Art Becomes Lifeline: RENT at North Shore Music Theatre Matters More Than Ever”
Beverly
LGBTQ

When Art Becomes Lifeline: RENT at North Shore Music Theatre Matters More Than Ever

by John Andrews
A Show Born from Crisis, Speaking to Crisis When North Shore Music Theatre announced RENT as part of its 70th Anniversary Season, running September 16-28, 2025, they weren’t just programming a beloved musical. They were offering Essex County a mirror, a megaphone, and perhaps most importantly, a gathering place for communities under siege. RENT, which follows seven friends navigating life
August 30, 2025
August 29, 2025
Featured image for “RENT Rocks North Shore Music Theatre This September”
Beverly
Theatre

RENT Rocks North Shore Music Theatre This September

by John Andrews
For the first time in its 70-year history, North Shore Music Theatre will present RENT, Jonathan Larson’s groundbreaking rock musical. This Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning production marks a milestone moment for Beverly’s beloved theatre venue. The show runs from September 16 through September 28, 2025, bringing the iconic East Village story to the North Shore community. North Shore Music Theatre
August 29, 2025
August 25, 2025
Featured image for “Meet the Member: Danvers Wellness Center, by Soul Warrior”
MEET THE MEMBER

Meet the Member: Danvers Wellness Center, by Soul Warrior

by Alyssa Conary
Interviewees: Michael LoColle & Courtney Lillie In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative. Danvers Wellness Center, by Soul Warrior is the North Shore’s premier destination for holistic wellness. Our experienced practitioners are dedicated to providing both science-backed and spiritually rooted healing, creating a balanced approach that honors the whole person. We understand that true well-being
August 25, 2025
August 23, 2025
Featured image for “Trails & Sails: Where History’s Ghosts Come Alive”
Creative Collective Member
Nonprofits

Trails & Sails: Where History’s Ghosts Come Alive

by Creative Collective Team
Essex County’s Most Haunted Free Event Series Every September, Essex County’s darkest secrets emerge during Trails & Sails – 16 days of free events that unlock the paranormal history hiding in plain sight. This isn’t just Massachusetts’ beloved heritage festival; it’s your gateway to the supernatural stories that shaped one of America’s most haunted regions. For 24 years, Essex National
August 23, 2025
August 23, 2025
Featured image for “Discover Essex County’s Hidden Gems at Trails & Sails”
Creative Collective Member
Nonprofits

Discover Essex County’s Hidden Gems at Trails & Sails

by Creative Collective Team
Essex County, Massachusetts, is a region steeped in history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From colonial-era settlements to maritime heritage, from scenic coastal paths to historic town centers, this corner of New England holds thousands of stories waiting to be discovered.  For 24 years, Trails & Sails has been the crown jewel of Essex County’s cultural calendar, transforming the entire
August 23, 2025
August 23, 2025
Featured image for “Unique Treasures & Secret Shores: Essex’s Rare Adventure Collection”
Creative Collective Member
Nonprofits

Unique Treasures & Secret Shores: Essex’s Rare Adventure Collection

by Creative Collective Team
16 Days of Extraordinary Discovery, 24 Years of Celebration Uncover one-of-a-kind treasures in your own region during Trails & Sails, an exclusive collection of complimentary experiences curated by Essex National Heritage Area. Journey through exceptional adventures on land and water, explore singular historic properties, and immerse yourself in distinctive cultural encounters. Discover what makes Essex County an irreplaceable destination unlike
August 23, 2025
August 23, 2025
Featured image for “Essex County is for Everyone: Accessible Heritage Adventures”
Creative Collective Member
Nonprofits

Essex County is for Everyone: Accessible Heritage Adventures

by Creative Collective Team
Get Ready for 16 Days of Inclusive Exploration Experience extraordinary places in your own backyard during Trails & Sails, a free event series brought to you by Essex National Heritage Area designed to welcome everyone. Be guided through accessible experiences on land and sea, explore historic properties with accommodating features, and take part in cultural activities that celebrate and empower
August 23, 2025
August 23, 2025
Featured image for “Discovery Map of Salem 2025: Your Illustrated Guide to the Witch City”
Haunted Happenings
Salem

Discovery Map of Salem 2025: Your Illustrated Guide to the Witch City

by John Andrews
Planning a trip to Salem? The brand-new Discovery Map of Salem 2025 edition has just arrived, packed with everything you need to explore Massachusetts’ most bewitching city. This isn’t just any ordinary map—it’s a hand-illustrated adventure waiting to unfold. Whether you’re searching for the perfect lobster roll or navigating Halloween crowds, this colorful Discovery Map guide transforms your Salem experience
August 23, 2025