Halloween in Salem is More Than Just Witches

Monday, October 26th, 2009

Salem, Massachusetts is known for the witch trials that took place hundreds of years ago but still captivate the imaginations of visitors. It is no surprise then, that Halloween, the spookiest time of year, is a big deal in Salem.

Though October 31st is when the main events take place, Salem features an array of "haunted happenings" throughout the month of October. The proceedings are not confined to haunted houses and spooky decor in shops and restaurants. There are costume balls, fireworks, pumpkin decorating events and performances by theater groups and storytellers.

There are trick-or-treat events on Pickering Wharf and at various locations in the center of Salem. Adults can get in on the fun as well. The Hawthorne Hotel's costume ball is a major draw on Halloween night ($90 at the door). The Hawthorne also hosts a Witches Ball (October 30th) and a Dinner with the Dead event, which features musical plays during the meal.

Find the carnival on Derby Street during the weeks leading up to Halloween. It includes rides, food, games and performances.

The Salem Theater Company performs the works of Edgar Allen Poe at the Bonded Warehouse in Salem. There are shows on select dates leading up to October 31st. Another popular performance takes place at the House of the Seven Gables (Nathaniel Hawthorne's childhood home). The short performances reenact the witch hysteria that overtook the town during early colonial times. The play last 35 minutes and runs continuously on select evenings in October.

Salem has a number of restaurants, shops, and small hotels (or bed and breakfasts) that carry some of the town's historic atmosphere. Even if it were not for the numerous Halloween events, this would be an interesting town to visit because of its old time ambiance.

More information on Salem's Halloween events (including times and prices for all events mentioned above) can be found at http://www.hauntedhappenings.org/.