Salem, MA – A Year-Round Destination

Salem isn’t just a great place to visit during our annual Haunted Happenings celebrations. In fact, many Witch City residents believe there are five seasons to celebrate this unique New England city: spring, summer, fall, winter and October! 

While our Haunted Happenings events are known the world round and attract more than half a million visitors annually, there is so much more to do and see in Salem outside of October. Here’s a season-by-season guide to help you enjoy the events, festivals and happenings in Salem all year long! 

Spring Into Salem Culture

Nothing puts a little bounce in your step than crocuses poking through the dirt in the garden or the smell of spring in the air! 

Salem in the spring is the ideal place to enjoy going into the shops downtown or taking a stroll along the harbor. It’s also a great time of year to enjoy cultural festivals such as the Salem Film Festival, Salem Horror Fest or Salem Arts Festival. 

From March 27-30, 2025, enjoy the largest international documentary film festival in Massachusetts right in Salem. The 18th Annual Salem Film Fest (SFF) brings the world’s best independent documentaries and their makers to Boston’s North Shore. The Salem Horror Fest, held this year from April 30th to May 4th, celebrates diverse voices and innovative filmmaking within a genre that best reflects our cultural demons. 

Craving even more arts and culture? Get in on the action at the Salem Arts Festival where you can enjoy local art, music, dance, and theatre performances across outdoor stages. June 6th through the 8th, join this free, family-friendly event which showcases our community’s creative talent through interactive art-making, a makers’ marketplace, pop-up exhibitions, a live mural slam, and public art installations, drawing over 7,500 attendees annually.

Summer Fun In Salem 

Get outdoors and explore Salem during the delightful summer months! From ice cream sampling to fireworks over the harbor, there are many family-friendly events held each summer. 

Take part in the delicious Salem Ice Cream Bowl each August, where you have the chance to taste some classic favorite flavors, as well as a few new ones, from the area’s best ice cream shops. If you want something healthy to eat such as locally grown fruits and veggies, try visiting on one of the Salem Farmer’s Market days. The market is held on Derby Square in front of the Old Town Hall on Thursday afternoons. 

Salem is also an ideal spot to celebrate America’s birthday! Come spend the day in Salem on July 4th where you can visit one of the many food vendors and stay for the fireworks over the harbor at dusk. Other family-friendly places to include on your Salem adventure include the Real Pirates Salem Museum, Salem Willows Park and Arcade, and the Salem Maritime exhibits along the waterfront. 

Fall into Spooky Salem 

Salem absolutely shines in the fall. Haunted Happenings is a much anticipated month-long event celebrating all things Halloween. A visit during this time of year means exploring the many watch-themed museums, arts, culture, decor and (of course) the ultimate experience in people-watching. Be sure to plan ahead and buy your tickets for events in advance, as this time of year tends to fill up quickly. 

In addition to amazing Halloween events, Witch City hosts the fantastic Salem Food Truck Festival. This event allows foodies to try menu items from the most popular food trucks, including Italian street food, seafood, sweet and savory crepes, Hawaiian poke bowls, Asian comfort food, crispy chicken sandwiches, arepas, bubble tea, ice cream sandwiches, whoopie pies, and more!

Winter Wonderland in Salem 

The temperatures may have fallen and snow may be in the air, but that’s what makes Salem feel like its very own snowglobe! 

Salem doesn’t shut down after Halloween. In fact, they keep the fun going all winter long with holiday celebrations and fun winter-themed activities. From the Salem Holiday Tree lighting to Salem’s Downtown Window Decorating Contest, Salem becomes a winter wonderland each winter. Join in the fun during Holiday Happenings and don’t forget to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve. 

Just when winter seems endless, come to Salem for the tasty Salem’s So Sweet Festival, where you can witness beautiful ice sculptures, play interactive games, and try some tasty chocolate treats! 

Come visit Salem throughout the year to experience all the history, holiday events, museums, and outdoor events. Don’t forget to visit us at Real Pirates Salem during your next trip.