Salem Haunted Happenings returns this October with a full month of programming that celebrates Halloween and fall in New England. Visitors can expect a calendar full of costume parties, film nights, ghost stories, harbor tours, haunted houses, live music, magic shows, museums, psychic fairs, reenactments, and walking tours.
Recognized internationally as one of the best places to celebrate Halloween, Salem Haunted Happenings began in 1982 and has evolved into a festive celebration for all ages. Most businesses get into the spirit with extended hours, special programs, pumpkin-themed menu items, and souvenirs infused with a touch of Salem magic.
While some programming, including the Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival and Vampfangs’ Endless Night Vampire Ball, is scheduled for the final weekend of September, Salem Haunted Happenings officially steps off with the Grand Parade on Thursday, October 4 at 6:30 p.m. After that, weekends will be chock full of activities for all ages and interests.
New and notable in 2019, the Fountain Stage that spent nearly 20 years on Essex Street will begin a new chapter at the City’s new Charlotte Forten Park at 289 Derby Street. Live music, free family films, and a beer garden will be among the featured programs at this beautiful new public space along the South River. Also new for 2019 is the Salem Halloween Museum at 131 Essex Street. This 3-D experience will take visitors on a fun trip down memory lane to learn the history of Halloween and some of its favorite traditions.
The Creative Collective Merchant Marketplace returns to Salem Haunted Happenings on October weekends, and will feature a Night Market on Fridays. The 2ndannual Great Salem Pumpkin Walk on October 17, 2019, will feature jack-o-lanterns and pumpkin displays and activities at locations between The Witch House and The House of the Seven Gables. Derby Wharf will go to the dogs (and cats!) on October 12 when Salem Main Streets’ Howl-o-ween returns to Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Salem Horror Fest is featuring so many screenings and celebrity interactions it has expanded its schedule to run from October 3 – 27.
Traffic and parking during Salem Haunted Happenings can be scary, so visitors are encouraged to use public transportation, especially on weekends and Halloween. Salem is just 5 stops and 30 minutes from Boston’s North Station, making October a great time to take advantage of the MBTA Commuter Rail’s special $10 weekend fare. Boston Harbor Cruises’ high-speed Salem Ferry will transport passengers from Long Wharf, Boston, to Blaney Street, Salem, in under an hour. Complete information on all the events, activities, restaurants, shopping, and accommodations for Salem Haunted Happenings, as well as parking, traffic, and safety advisories, can be found at HauntedHappenings.org. Visit the blog on HauntedHappenings.org for articles about Salem Haunted Happenings for families, 21+ programming during Haunted Happenings, and more.