Salem is so much more than just October fun! Check out this list of key activities for the Holiday Season!
Full list can be found from Destination Salem Click Here!
Santa’s Arrival and Holiday Tree Lighting
A beloved annual tradition, Santa Claus will arrive at the top of the Hawthorne Hotel at 18 Washington Square – with assistance from the Salem Fire Department, of course! Santa’s arrival will be followed by a procession down the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall for the annual lighting of Salem’s Holiday Tree at Lappin Park (next to the Bewitched Statue at the intersection of Essex Street and Washington Street). www.salemmainstreets.org
Salem Trolley & The Gallows Hill Theatre Present… “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens
Now entering into its 34th Season, this humorous & whimsical interactive performance reanimates Dickens’ timeless seasonal holiday classic. Experience Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with a twist. Ride along with Scrooge on the Salem Trolley as the classic tale is brought to life in a completely unexpected way. Shows sell out quickly and seats are limited. https://salemtrolley.com/
Tis’ The Season with History Alive at The House of the Seven Gables
Celebrate the arrival of the longest night of the year through an array of nurturing programs. Slow down with a grounding yoga class, engage in a powerful solstice ritual, design a beeswax candle, and enjoy joyous Celtic harp music! For more information, visit www.pem.org
Gingerbread Holiday Trolley ride with the Good Witch of Salem
December 9 & 10, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Downtown Salem
Join the Good Witch of Salem on a quest to find the Gingerbread Man aboard the Holiday Trolley! The race through downtown Salem will begin at The Good Witch of Salem’s shop with a storytime all about the Gingerbread Man! Attendees will take part and interact with the story through the use of motions, props, and baking tools. After storytime, together we will view and discuss how gingerbread cookies are made. Be on the lookout because one of the adorable Gingerbread Men will come alive and run off into the streets of Salem! Once we spot him, we will board the Holiday Trolley to find that fast little cookie! Keep your eyes peeled while riding the Holiday Trolley…the Gingerbread Man can pop up anywhere along the way! https://goodwitchofsalem.com/holiday-trolley-tickets-2023/
Frozen Fire Festival
December 26 through January 1, Charlotte Forten Park
Centerpiece for winter entertainment, seasonal shopping, dining, and drinks in the heart of Salem, MA – FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! RAIN OR SHINE. Rent an igloo and make smores with friends, or play some outdoor winter-themed games. https://www.facebook.com/FrozenFireFestival
Salem Main Streets Holiday Stroll
Salem Main Streets wants to help you with your holiday shopping! Load up on sustenance at one of our many fine downtown breakfast and brunch establishments, then hit the bricks for great finds and specials at local retailers around town, all while serenaded by festive roaming carolers. Keep your eyes peeled for Santa! Follow along online for the latest list of participants and shopping details. www.salemmainstreets.org
New Year’s Eve LAUNCH!
Gingerbread Holiday Trolley ride with the Good Witch of Salem There will be an early countdown promptly at 6 p.m. www.salemmainstreets.org/
Frozen Fire Festival
Additional Tips for Planning Your Family Visit to Salem
- Book your accommodations early. Salem is a popular tourist destination, especially during the holiday season.
- Consider purchasing a Salem Trolley Pass. This pass will give you unlimited rides on the trolley, as well as discounts on some attractions.
- Allow plenty of time for parking. Parking can be difficult to find in Salem, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your shoes are up to the task.
- Be prepared for crowds. Salem can get crowded, especially during peak times. Be patient and understanding, and enjoy the festive atmosphere!
