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

July 26, 2026
Featured image for “Beverly Homecoming 2026: 400 Years, 15 Days, One Party”
Beverly

Beverly Homecoming 2026: 400 Years, 15 Days, One Party

by John Andrews
Picture a lobster bake under a tent at Lynch Park where 90% of the trash never sees a landfill. A LEGO model of four centuries of city history, built by a guy from Beverly. A long-hidden time capsule cracked open in Beverly Cove, and a wall of names from Vietnam standing on a high school lawn. That’s Beverly Homecoming 2026
July 26, 2026
July 26, 2026
Featured image for “Salem Heritage Days 2026: 400 Years Worth Showing Up For”
Beverly
Salem

Salem Heritage Days 2026: 400 Years Worth Showing Up For

by John Andrews
Can you believe it’s been 400 years since Roger Conant landed where the Naumkeag people had already built their home? Fast-forward to Salem Heritage Days 2026, and we’ve got nine days packed with energy: dozens of events, a tall ship, a parade making its comeback after thirty years, and a whole fleet of cardboard boats ready to race. Learn more
July 26, 2026
January 1, 2026
Featured image for “LAUNCH! Salem’s Family New Year’s Eve Event 2025 Recap”
PHOTOS
Salem

LAUNCH! Salem’s Family New Year’s Eve Event 2025 Recap

by John Andrews
Salem kicked off 2025 the best way we know how — together! On New Year’s Eve, families braved the cold and gathered at Artists’ Row for LAUNCH!, Salem Main Streets’ annual family-friendly celebration. From magic to face painting to hat-making, the afternoon was filled with creativity, laughter, and community spirit. A huge thank you to the Artists’ Row tenants who
January 1, 2026
February 13, 2025
Featured image for “Join The Good Witch of Salem for an Enchanting Children’s Valentine’s Tea Party”
Creative Collective Member
Salem

Join The Good Witch of Salem for an Enchanting Children’s Valentine’s Tea Party

by John Andrews
A Magical Valentine’s Tea Party: Where Teddy Bears Come to Life in Salem Looking for a truly special way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your little ones? The Good Witch of Salem invites families to step into a world of wonder at the enchanting Teddy Bear Tea Party, where magic meets meaning in a celebration designed especially for children. Set
February 13, 2025