Haunted Happenings – The Annual Salem Halloween Extravaganza

Every October, for over forty years, visitors have flocked to the Witch City for the annual tradition of observing Salem’s Halloween extravaganza, known as Haunted Happenings. Last year, over one million people visited during the month-long celebration, taking part in museum tours, haunted houses, live music, costume balls, artisan vendors, a wide variety of cuisine, and, of course, the Grand Parade! 

With so much going on from October 1st to the 31st, it’s advisable to plan your visit, including knowing how to navigate the city and which events you want to attend. While Salem’s Haunted Happenings website and the Salem Visitor’s bureau, Destination Salem, have calendars and insider guides, we want our Real Pirates Salem visitors to have the inside scoop as well! 

Here is a quick guide on how to get around the city, along with a list of activities/events you won’t want to miss! 

How To Get Around 

With over one million people pouring into Salem, parking is scarce. If you are lucky enough to find a parking spot in the city, you will need the municipal parking app, Passport, on your phone to pay for it. 

Please be aware that as we approach Halloween, there will be street closures at night that may impact your travel. 

Take Public Transit

Avoid parking and travel issues by taking the MBTA Commuter Rail directly to Salem Station. You can do this from Boston or surrounding towns by taking the Newburyport/Rockport Line into Downtown, where you will find dining, Haunted Happening events and plenty of activities for the whole family. The MBTA also offers bus service to neighboring towns and cities, which can take you right into the action. 

If you live in Boston, consider taking the Salem Ferry, which will take you to Blaney Street and allow you direct access to downtown Salem. 

Haunted Happenings: Things To See & Do 

With the popularity of Salem’s annual Haunted Happenings festival every fall, the number of visitors to the city increases every year. Due to this and the number of activities, events, vendors and attractions, it is critical to plan for what you would like to do and see during your time in the Witch City. 

Grand Parade

Starting the month-long activities off strong is the Haunted Happenings Grand Parade, typically held on the first Thursday of October each year. This event marks the official start of Haunted Happenings and takes place at Salem Common. From there, it traverses along Hawthorne Boulevard and Essex, Central, and Charter Streets. The Grand Parade features witches, ghosts, and goblins with a lavish pageant of costumes, music, floats, and entertainment. Join in the fun by dressing up for the event. 

Haunted Houses 

If you love the adrenaline rush that comes with anticipating the scare factor of a haunted house, Salem in October is the place to be! 

With many haunted houses to choose from, including child and family-friendly options, you will enjoy a frightful experience! Explore the many haunted houses offered in Salem and select the one that’s right for you! 

Walking Tours & Trolley Tours

Want to learn more about Salem’s history and lore? Pick a walking tour about the Salem Witch Trials, ghosts, the mystic world, vampires, the sinister world and so much more. Choose one of the many themed walking tours or trolley tours that are both informative and entertaining. 

Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

For the over-21 crowd, a pub crawl exploring some of Salem’s best local watering holes is a great way to tour Salem all while enjoying your favorite brews. Stay tuned for more information as we get closer to October. 

In addition to these fun activities, every night during the month of October, there are opportunities to watch theatrical presentations, buy unique items from street vendors, tour museums, take part in movie nights on Salem Common, and witness some of the best costumes as you explore our city.