By John Andrews, Content Director, Creative Collective Salem’s 400th anniversary year is already packed with landmark moments. Now, one of the most ambitious celebrations yet is taking shape. Food at 400+, a 12-day culinary and cultural festival running June 11–22, 2026, will transform the city into a living timeline of food, community, and shared heritage. Produced by Salem Food Tours

In a historic move celebrating Salem’s rich literary heritage, Mayor Dominick Pangallo and Salem Public Library Director Tara Mansfield have announced the appointment of J.D. Scrimgeour as the city’s inaugural Poet Laureate. This groundbreaking appointment comes as Salem approaches its 400th anniversary, marking a new chapter in the city’s cultural legacy. A New Cultural Milestone Establishing Salem’s first Poet Laureate