Celebrate the Holidays in Salem 

November 29, 2024

Salem, Massachusetts is known around the globe for the Haunted Happenings month-long celebration of Halloween. The Witch City is also known for its rich maritime history and connection to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. But did you know that Salem also celebrates the holidays in a way that only Salem could? From Santa’s arrival downtown to traditional Tree Lighting and from Holiday Strolls to Trolley Tours, Salem has it all. 

Join us for some or all of these wonderful events throughout the holiday season with family, friends, or a partner. 

Santa’s Arrival & Tree Lighting 

What better way to usher in the festivities of the holiday season than to have Santa Claus himself arrive via the roof of the Hawthorne Hotel in Salem, Massachusetts? 

Join us on November 29, 2024, when the guy in the big red suit makes his appearance with assistance from the Salem Fire Department. To catch his arrival and join us for the Tree Lighting Ceremony, we suggest gathering at Salem Town Common around 5:45 pm so you can catch a glimpse of good ole St. Nick. For more details visit SalemMainStreets.org

Holiday Marketplace in Salem

If you love homemade gifts and want to get in the spirit of the season as soon as possible then the 7th Annual Holiday Marketplace is just the thing! 

On November 30 from 11 am to 3 pm, stop by the free event at Sea Level Oyster Bar and Finz Salem. Walk along the waterfront and enjoy two dozen artisan vendors selling all types of goods such as candles, cosmetics, pottery, fiber arts, wood products, and art. You may be able to check off some of your hardest to buy for off your list! 

Holiday Window Contest 

The streets of Salem are beautiful every holiday season. Storefronts, small businesses, and Salem landmarks are decorated in all the holiday regalia. Enjoy strolling downtown as you enjoy viewing each window decor. Notice the twinkle lights and Salem-esque decorations and enjoy the festivities of the holidays in Salem. 

Salem Main Streets sponsors the window contest and is delighted by the creativity each year including window awards that go to Best Use of Products, Best Nostalgia, Best Traditional Window and “Only in Salem” window decor. For more information visit SalemMainStreets.org

Holiday Trolley: Catch the Gingerbread Man!

Join the Good Witch of Salem on a quest to find the Gingerbread Man aboard the Holiday Trolley! The adventure through downtown Salem will begin at The Good Witch of Salem’s shop with a storytime all about the Gingerbread Man! Then board the trolley as you hunt for the Gingerbread Man. 

In addition to chasing the Gingerbread Man, the event will include music, instruments, dancing, and special surprises along the way! We will also make a stop in the Salem Common to leave some magical food for Santa’s most beloved animal, his reindeer!

Salem Holiday House Tour 

Join us December 6-8, 2024, for the 45th Christmas in Salem Holiday House Tour. Hosted by Historic Salem, the tour will feature 10 homes located in the Essex Street and Federal Street neighborhoods. This popular area offers a unique mix of homes of all sizes, architectural styles, and histories, which will make for a unique tour for all guests. Questions? Contact us at info@historicsalem.org or call at (978) 745-0799.

Sloppy Santa Stroll 

Looking for some adult fun in Salem? The Sloppy Santa Stroll is being held on Saturday, December 21, 2024. During the stroll, visitors will be able to stop at a slew of Salem businesses, bars and restaurants… but only if you are on the nice list. To purchase tickets visit Sloppy Santa Pub Crawl

To explore more Holiday Happenings in Salem visit Salem Main Streets, Salem.org, Salem Chamber of Commerce and stay tuned to this page.