April 24–26, 2026 | Salem, Massachusetts | Theme: Song of the Sea
By John Andrews, Creative Collective
A Magical Weekend in the Witch City
Grab your knitting bag, your favorite tarot deck, and a pearl-dripping sea-witch ensemble. The Fiber Witch Festival Salem returns April 24–26, 2026. This year’s edition is shaping up to be the most enchanting yet.
Circle of Stitches and Kitty With A Cupcake host the three-day celebration. Together, they sit at the intersection of fiber craft and witchcraft. Expect a weekend of yarn, ritual, community, and quiet magic.
This year’s theme is Song of the Sea. Specifically, it honors the magic of the ocean — the push of tides and the protection of salt water. Additionally, Saturday night celebrates the archetype of the Crone. Moreover, expect shimmering pearls, swirling ocean colors, and coastal New England enchantment throughout.
Meet the Boss Witches Behind the Fiber Witch Festival
Two creative powerhouses founded the festival. First, Ana Campos, founder of Toil & Trouble knitwear and Circle of Stitches yarn shop. Additionally, she has 25+ years of knitting experience and a seat on the Vogue Knitting Live Diversity Advisory Council. Next, Emily O’Brien, the artist behind Kitty With A Cupcake and a fiber industry veteran.
Furthermore, Operations Manager Sarah Hawkins and Events Coordinator Lucy Wonson round out the team. Together, they’ve built something special. Specifically, a festival that supports indie makers, prioritizes accessibility, and gives generously to charity.
What Is the Fiber Witches Market?
The Fiber Witches Market is the heart of the festival. Specifically, it runs at Old Town Hall at 32 Derby Square — the building from Hocus Pocus. Also, it opens Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26, from 11 AM to 5 PM.
Furthermore, over 30 artisan vendors fill the hall. For instance, you’ll find indie and farm yarn, fiber notions, witchy artwork, candles, crystals, and handmade goods.
The market uses a three-tier timed-entry system. Separate tickets are required each day:
- Early Crow (11 AM – 1 PM): $20 — includes the masked shopping hour 11 AM–12 PM
- Afternoon Brew (1 PM – 3 PM): $10
- Evening Spell (3 PM – 5 PM): FREE — no ticket required
Advance online tickets are available for Saturday and Sunday Early Crow and Afternoon Brew slots. However, door tickets are cash only. Also, masks are required of everyone during the opening hour. Additionally, if you can’t afford the $20 ticket, the organizers will comp your entry — just email them.
“Attending last year, what struck me most wasn’t just the market inside Old Town Hall — it was what happened outside it. Shoppers poured into downtown Salem and kept going, filling shops, restaurants, and cafes across the city for hours. That ripple effect is exactly what a thriving regional festival looks like.”
— John Andrews, Creative Collective
What Happens Each Day at the Fiber Witch Festival?
Friday, April 24 — The Weekend Kicks Off
First, start with the Fiber Witch Trolley Tour (5–6 PM). Specifically, it’s a one-hour narrated ride through historic Salem. Bring your current project and stitch as it rolls.
Next, it drops you at Circle of Stitches (78 Wharf Street) for the Sip & Shop party (6–8 PM, free). Finally, close out the night with Introduction to Tarot with Alyse Grimm (7–9 PM) at Toil and Trouble Studio. Bring your deck and an open mind.
Saturday, April 25 — The Main Event
First, another Trolley Tour (10–11 AM) opens the day. Then, the Fiber Witches Market swings open at 11 AM.
At 2 PM, you have a choice. Specifically, the Fiber Witch Walking Tour with local witch AJ — a stroll through Salem’s history with divination baked in. Alternatively, another run of Introduction to Tarot with Alyse Grimm.
Then at 4 PM, something genuinely lovely happens. Specifically, the Mooncrush Knit Along group photo outside Old Town Hall. Knitters have cast on since Valentine’s Day. For this pattern? The Mooncrush Pullover or Tank by Jaq Studio. As organizers say, “all witches have a crush on the moon.”
Finally, the evening belongs to the Soiree of the Sea Witch (7:30–10:30 PM), held in The Cellar at The Hotel Salem. Specifically, ritual, revelry, a communal circle-casting, and dancing bedecked in pearls. Also, the dress code calls for shimmering pearls and ocean colors. Note: it’s a separate ticketed event.
Sunday, April 26 — Deepen Your Practice
Sunday leans into intention. First, the final Trolley Tour runs 10–11 AM. Meanwhile, Tarot 201: Going Deeper with Tarot (10 AM–12 PM) includes a reading swap with classmates.
Next, the Market returns from 11 AM–5 PM (separate ticket from Saturday). At 2 PM, choose between the Walking Tour or Rune Crafting & Divination: Awaken the Elder Futhark with Nicole Luna. Specifically, Nicole is a professional spiritual consultant and practicing Salem witch. Additionally, you’ll craft your own rune set from wood and paint — materials provided, all skill levels welcome.
At 3 PM, don’t miss the Private Witch Hour Tour for Charity at The Witch House (310 Essex Street). Specifically, it’s the former residence of Judge Jonathan Corwin. Also, 50% of ticket sales are donated to charity.
Finally, wind down with Intuitive Movement For Crafters (4–5 PM, Hotel Salem lobby, free). Then, the beloved Fiber Witch Meetup with Meghan of Penny Moons (5:30–6:30 PM, Hotel Salem Lounge, free). Consequently, a perfect closing stitch session to send you home full.
Where to Stay During the Salem Fiber Arts Festival
The festival has secured room blocks at four Salem hotels:
- The Hotel Salem — adjacent to Old Town Hall. Rates $129–$239. Call 978-451-4950.
- Salem Waterfront Hotel — next to Circle of Stitches. Parking included. $249–$269. Call 978-740-8788.
- Hampton Inn Boston/Salem — downtown. $265/night. Group booking link on festival site.
- Hawthorne Hotel — downtown, est. 1925. $174–$218. Call 978-744-4080 (code WD0425).
Additionally, Salem has a deep bench of B&Bs and AirBnBs.
While You’re In Town
Salem is a tiny city packed with places to wander. For instance, The Witchery (86 Wharf Street), a woman-owned studio with broom-making and bookbinding workshops. Also, The Sea Wych Salem (131 Essex Street) for sea magic. Additionally, Witch City Broom Co. (246 Essex Street) for handcrafted brooms. Nearby, Coven Boutique and Nocturne offer dark fashion. Finally, round it out with Diehl Marcus & Co., Modern Millie, Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry, and Salem Wax.
Giving Back: The Real Magic
One thing makes this festival distinctive: its commitment to charity. For example, past donations have supported HAWC (Healing Abuse Working for Change) with over $1,400 in year one. Additionally, Knit the Rainbow has received monetary donations plus a carload of hand-knit items for LGBTQ+ youth. Also, LUCE (Immigrant Justice Network of Massachusetts) receives a portion of the proceeds annually.
Furthermore, Sunday’s Private Witch Hour Tour donates 50% of ticket sales to charity. As the organizers put it: “The real magic is the impact we can make in our communities.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Not necessarily. Specifically, the Evening Spell slot (3–5 PM) is always free and requires no ticket. Additionally, earlier slots can be purchased at the door in cash. However, online purchase is recommended for out-of-town visitors.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Specifically, Old Town Hall is ADA-compliant with a ramp, wide double doors, and elevator access.
Do I really have to wear a mask during the opening hour?
Yes. Specifically, from 11 AM to 12 PM both days, everyone masks up. Additionally, this welcomes immunocompromised guests. Bring your own mask.
Do I need a separate ticket for the Sea Witch Soiree?
Yes. Specifically, it’s a separate ticketed event at The Cellar at The Hotel Salem. Also, purchase online.
A Few More Good Things to Know
- Service animals are welcome; ESAs are not accommodated.
- Refunds available through March 24, 2026. After that, all sales are final.
- AI art policy: strictly prohibited for vendors. Specifically, this supports real artisans.
- Parking: No dedicated lot at Old Town Hall. However, garages and metered spots are plentiful.
- Food: no vendors inside the market. However, you’re in the middle of downtown Salem.
Stay in the Loop
Join the Inner Circle newsletter on the festival website. Also, follow along on Instagram @fiberwitchfestival or reach out at fiberwitchfestival@gmail.com.
Tickets are live at fiber-witch-festival.eventcube.io. Finally, cast on, cast a spell, and we’ll see you in Salem.
This story comes from the Creative Collective community — Essex County businesses who believe when we thrive together, our whole region becomes more vibrant. We’re entrepreneurs, creators, and service providers across all industries, collaborating to build the community we want to be part of. If you see your business as more than just commerce — as a way to contribute to our regional ecosystem — you belong here. Discover how to join our community →
About the author: John Andrews is the founder of Creative Collective, an Essex County business network supporting entrepreneurs, creators, and service providers across the North Shore.
Circle of Stitches | Specialty Yarn Shop
View their Member Listing
Circle of Stitches is a witchy boutique and full-service yarn shop. When you visit us, you’ll find a selection of gifts and items for the home made by independent artists and companies with values we support. We have locally-made soy candles, local jewelry, independently published tarot decks, crystals, and more! We have a broad selection of high-quality yarns for knitting,
SEE LISTING
