MANY THANKS!!!!!!!!!

A hardy thank you to all of our visitors who traveled to Salem's Haunted Happenings 2008! The event was a huge success. The video below is part of the Halloween evening finale.

As we now take on the task of assessing the month, we invite you to send your best photos of the city as well as gentle input. We will continue our efforts to craft Haunted Happenings as the premiere Halloween destination in the world and promote Salem as the premiere travel destination that it is.

Visit Salem.org for information on traveling to Salem during other times of the year. We will resume posting this blog as Haunted Happenings 2009 unfolds over the coming months. If you plan to travel here for next year, call and get your accommodations reservations made now if you wish to stay in town.

Have a Winter, Spring, Summer and early Fall!

Samhain Gatherings in Salem Tomorrow!

For those who may be unfamiliar with Samhain (pronounced Sow-en), the word in Gaelic means "summer's end" and is actually a sacred holy day for those who honor the earth centered religious tradition of Wicca. Some people in this faith community refer to themselves as Witches, not like noted in fairy tales, but as ancient healers and faith bound people. In Salem there is a moderate number of people of this faith.

So while many are celebrating the contemporary Halloween, others are observing the holiest day in their religious calendar. To not this, below are some of the observances we are aware of:

16th Annual Temple of Nine Wells Samhain Magick Circle
5:30pm - Gallows Hill Park
Join Rev. H.P. Richard Ravish GM and Rev. H.Ps. Gypsy Ravish WQ, the Priests & Priestesses of The Temple of Nine Wells, witches of all traditions & friends of the Craft at Gallows Hill Park for the largest citywide Samhain Circle as we turn the Wheel of the Year. Donations welcome. 978.745.8668 • tnw-salem.org

Witches' Commemorative Candlelight Samhain Walk
7:30pm - Gallows Hill Park
Witches walk on the holiest night of the Witches' Year from the Temple of Nine Wells Magick Circle at Gallows Hill Park to the heart of Salem and affirm the sacred nature of the Craft of the Wise. 978.745.8668 • tnw-salem.org

Salem's Witches present A Feast to the Spirits
8pm - 12am - The Lyseum
In honor of the Little Lost Ghost discovered at the Lyceum as seen on the Sci-Fi Channel's "Ghost Hunters". An evening of ritual, delectable food, fun, and a time to honor the spirits around us. Tickets are limited. Cost $90 per person. Purchase at Crow Haven Corner. 978.745.8763 •  CrowHavenCorner.net

NEW RULES FOR HALLOWEEN IN SALEM!

City of Salem advises visitors to be safe, use common sense, and be prepared to leave at the end of the evening

The City of Salem is encouraging participants in Salem's Halloween night festivities to be safe and considerate during their celebration of all things haunted, spooky and bewitching.
Halloween night is filled with costume balls, festivals, dramatic presentations, ghost stories, walking tours, and parties. Visitors are advised to make reservations for tickets events early, as most will sell out.

The schedule of public events is as follows:

7:00-10:00 pm
Live music around town featuring the Undercover Band on Front Street and Grateful Ted on Hawthorne Boulevard;

10:30 pm
Halloween Finale presented by VDA Productions at Federal & Washington Streets, near the MBTA Commuter Rail station, followed by fireworks over the North River.

11:24 pm
Final train depart to North Station, Boston

11:26 pm
Final train departs to Newburyport

The MBTA has added additional train service for Halloween night, and will be adding a temporary loading platform that will enable northbound and southbound trains to service Salem depot simultaneously. Visit MBTA.com for the complete expanded schedule of services for Haunted Happenings.

Those planning to celebrate Halloween in Salem are reminded of the following:

• Omit any weapons – fake and real – from costumes, as they will be confiscated;

• Public consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated;

• Salem is a residential city – please be considerate of private property and downtown residents;

• The finale at 10:30 PM is the conclusion of the public Halloween celebration . Please note that the streets will be closed after the fireworks and in conjunction with the final trains departing Salem. The Police and Public Works Departments will be clearing all streets and sidewalks so visitors should be prepared to depart Salem following the closing ceremony;

• To make the most of the public Salem Halloween experience, people are encourage to arrive no later than 8:30 pm, and should plan to depart after the finale http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifat 10:50 pm.;

• From October 29 – November 1 citations for illegal behavior – including public drinking, vandalism, and littering – will have tripled fines, up to $300, associated with them.

The Halloween holiday attracts tens of thousands of costumed revelers to Salem to visit attractions and partake in the Fall festivities. While the vast majority of visitors enjoy their time here without incident, there are some that take advantage of this public gathering and end up causing harm to the area, themselves or others. Please know that the City strongly discourages disorderly behavior (such as drinking in public, littering and random acts of vandalism) and will penalize offenders to the maximum amount allowed under the law both civilly and criminally. Please help us maintain a fun and safe downtown environment on Halloween evening!

For complete information on Salem Haunted Happenings and Halloween night, please visit Salem.com and HauntedHappenings.org.

PARTIES ON HALLOWEEN WEEKEND IN SALEM!

Here are the parties this Halloween weekend that we have in our scheduling so far. Many have sold out or are close to selling out. Once everyone is filled to capacity there are many area restaurants and pubs that will be open also. So make reservations today!

October 30
The Dumb Supper: Dinner with the Dead - 6:30pm - 10pm Hawthorne Hotel.
The Salem Witches honor the dead with a sumptuous dinner observed in silence as touching music plays. 800.595.4TIX • FestivalOfTheDead.com

October 31
Halloween Finale - Federal & Washington Streets
The 27th Annual Salem Haunted Happenings will conclude with an original sound and light show produced by VDA Productions, Inc., of Somerville, MA. The closing ceremony will combine music, light, and movement soaring into the night sky followed by a fireworks finale over the North River. The entire event will provide a exciting, unique conclusion to Salem’s Haunted Happenings festival and Halloween night. In addition to the finale, bands and DJs will be situated throughout the downtown on Halloween night, including the very popular Undercover Band on Front Street and Grateful Ted on Hawthorne Boulevard. All public music will end at 10:15, and audiences will be encouraged to venture toward the finale on Washington Street before leaving Salem via MBTA or private transportation at the conclusion of Salem Haunted Happenings and the Halloween Festivities, which will be at 11:00 PM. 978.741.3252 • HauntedHappenings.org

Celebrate Halloween at Crunchy Granola Baby! - 3pm - 5pm • 72 Washington St.
Throw on your best costume with your little ones and enjoy organic treats. 978.741.0800 • CrunchyGranolaBaby.com

Sixty2 on Wharf Halloween Cocktail Party - 7pm - 12pm • 62 Wharf St.
Join Sixty2 on Wharf for our very first Halloween cocktail party. Friday, October 31st. from 7pm to midnight for a night that will wake the dead. You will enjoy complimentary passed hors d'oeuvres and appetizers from our menu and creative halloween cocktails from our cash bar. We'll also be featuring live music by our very own bartender and local musician Derek Rando. Costumes are a must as well as 21+. Door prize will be given to the most spooktacular costume!! Space is limited so please call 978 744 0062 or stop by and reserve today! Cost is $35 per person. Tax not included
978-744-0062 • 62onwharf.com

The Hawthorne Hotel's Carn-Evil Creep Show Costume Ball - 8pm - 12am • Hawthorne Hotel
Three floors of entertainment, fun and food. Tickets are $90 per person. Live entertainment featuring the popular band "HUSH", DJ's, limited edition t-shirt, and photo. Costume contest with $1500 in cash prizes. Must be 21 years of age or older with proper ID at the door. Tickets can be purchased on our website or call. 978.744.4080 • HawthorneHotel.com

Salem's Witches present A Feast to the Spirits - 8pm - 12am • Lyceum Restaurant
In honor of the Little Lost Ghost discovered at the Lyceum as seen on the Sci-Fi Channel's "Ghost Hunters". An evening of ritual, dhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifelectable food, fun, and a time to honor the spirits around us. Tickets are limited. Cost $90 per person. Purchase at Crow Haven Corner. 978.745.8763 • CrowHavenCorner.net

Halloween at Capt's Topsides - 8pm - 12am • 94 Wharf St.
Put on your best costume and join us for a party overlooking the haunted harbor of Salem. Music, costume prizes, great food included, cash bar. Cost: $50 advance/$60 at the door per person. Call for tickets & reservations. 978.741.0555 •

November 1
The Official Salem Witches' Halloween Ball - 7:30pm - 12:30am • Hawthorne Hotel
18+ Join the Salem Witches with guests Fiona Horne, Wendy Rule, and Dragon Ritual Drummers for the event AOL rates among America's top Halloween parties! Free readings! $1,000 prize! 800.595.4TIX • FestivalOfTheDead.com

Scenes from Oktoberfest! Join us today!

Join us today for the last day of the Witch City Haunted Oktoberfest! Cover charge is $10 today and it includes entertainment and your first drink. Children are welcome throughout the day today when accompanied by their parents. Extra drink tickets and food are available for purchase. Bratwurst, lobster rolls, barbequed ribs, chowder and more! The Bavarian Hofbrau Band plays today with the last performance of Charmed and Dangerout for the weekend.

The day is gorgeous...come have some fun!

AVAILABLE LODGING FOR HAUNTED HAPPENINGS!

As we come into the final two weeks of Salem Haunted Happenings, lodging gets tighter in the region. At Destination Salem, the travel and tourism office for the city, alerts of room availablity from advertisers makes it possible for you to know where you can call at the last minute. From time to time we will post these.

Today we heard from these fine establishments. They are about 20-30 minutes from Salem near Gloucester. Call because these will move quickly.

TUCK INN B&B: 17 High St., Rockport
Bed and Breakfast
MIDWEEK: YES
WEEKENDS: YES
BLACKOUT: NONE
978-546-7260 / 800-789-7260
www.TuckInn.com

For the Inns, it is as follows:

THE INNS OF ROCKPORT: 25 Various locations throughout the town.
Inns, B&Bs, Motels, and Hotels
MIDWEEK: YES
WEEKENDS: YES
BLACKOUT: NONE
Various phones as noted on the website below
www.InnsOfRockport.com

SALEM PREPARES AN EXCITING HALLOWEEN FINALE!

Destination Salem and the City of Salem are promising a unique and exciting finale for Halloween revelers on October 31st.  The event, which is being sponsored and produced by VDA Productions out of Somerville, will provide revelers with an impressive sound and light show overhead that features giant shapes dancing overhead. 

This closing ceremony, which will combine music, light, and movement soaring into the night sky, will occur at the intersection of Federal and Washington Streets, will happen at 10:30 PM on Friday, October 31, and will be followed by a fireworks finale over the North River.  The entire event will provide a exciting, unique conclusion to Salem's Haunted Happenings festival and Halloween night.

"Salem residents have indicated an interest in seeing a more creative and artistic side of Halloween, and VDA brings that creativity to the table," says Destination Salem executive director Kate Fox, "They are putting together a unique, exciting finale that will appeal to all ages while providing the closing ceremonies we need on Halloween."
Bands and DJs will be situated throughout the downtown on Halloween night, including the very popular Undercover Band on Front Street and Grateful Ted on Hawthorne Boulevard.  All public music will end at 10:15, and audiences will be encouraged to venture toward the finale on Washington Street.
 
The MBTA has added additional trains for Halloween night to transport out of Salem.  The City of Salem and Destination Salem are working closely with the MBTA to communicate with potential passengers the importance of coming to Salem early and planning to be on the final trains out of Salem, which will be at 11:00 PM going inbound to North Station and 11:11 PM going northbound to Beverly.

People planning to attend Halloween in Salem are asked to remember that accessories to costumes that might look like a weapon or potentially endanger others are not permitted in the City and will be confiscated by police.

"With Halloween on a Friday night this year we are expecting very large numbers of people coming to Salem to celebrate what has become on of the biggest holidays in America," Says Salem Mayor Kimberley Driscoll, "Enhanced police coverage will be in place, and Department of Public Services will be working overtime to ensure the City is the location of a safe, fun Halloween, and that residents will find clean, quiet streets on November 1st. Most importantly, we are encouraging anyone coming to Salem to take public transportation and to conclude their visit at the end of the closing ceremony. "

It is hoped that VDA Production's finale and the fireworks will be an annual component of Halloween, which will be on a Saturday in 2009.  The cost of the production is being sponsored by VDA Productions, Inc. and underwritten by revenue from Fiesta Shows' carnival on Derby Street.

Dig out the Lederhosen and Dirndls! Its time for Oktoberfest!!

The upcoming weekend it filled with many new events for Haunted Happenings!!! This year's Witch City Haunted Oktoberfest is bringing back old traditions from Salem's history with new twists in the middle of downtown Salem on Front Street. Opening festivities begin on Friday evening, October 24, 2008 and continue through October 26, 2008.

Beer will be provided by local, award-winning Ipswich Ale. Traditional German and New England fare, wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. On Saturday and Sunday, children may attend under the supervision of their parents until 6 pm. Live entertainment will be provided all weekend. ID will be required.

Tickets can be purchased at Pamplemousse or online at WitchCityOktoberfest.com or at MKTix.com! Tickets will also be available at the door.

Schedule of events:

October 24, 7-10 p.m.
An Evening With Charmed & Dangerous
Tickets $25 per person. ID will be required.
Ticket includes first beer and the evening entertainment. This is a special performance with a Halloween and German cabaret performance of Charmed and Dangerous to kick the weekend off. The group is a blend of the comedy and cabaret bawdy beauties and hilarious hombres. No bone will be left un-tickled.

October 25, noon to 9 p.m.
Buddy Walker's Warszawiaki Orchestra and Charmed & Dangerous
Tickets $20 per person. ID will be required. Children free. Ticket includes first beer, entertainment and a gift for the first 1500 people for the day!
Buddy Walker and the Warszawiaki Orchestra is a well-known and established local group from Salem, Massachusetts, playing for the dancing pleasure throughout New England for over fifty years at dances, socials, weddings, and about any affair where good music is in demand since 1949. The Charmed and Dangerous group will also perform.


October 26, noon to 6 p.m.
The Bavarian Hofbrau Band and Charmed and Dangerous
Tickets $20 per person. Children free. Ticket includes first beer, entertainment and a gift for the first 1000 people for the day!
The Bavarian Hofbrau Band was founded over twenty years ago by a group of musicians from the North Shore of Boston playing good, solid German music. The Charmed and Dangerous group will also perform.

See you all this weekend on the dance floor!

TAKE A RIDE FOR A WITCHES-EYE VIEW OF SALEM!

On Saturday afternoon, October 25 from 10 am to 5 pm tethered hot-air balloon rides will take passengers aloft for a stunning view of the city from Washington Square. High-5 Ballooning of New Hampshire brings its "Smile High" balloon for a full afternoon of flights, open to both children and adults. (Weather Permitting!!) After many years, the glorious tradition of ballooning on the Salem Common returns, just in time for the Haunted Happenings weekend that will feature the City's first annual Oktoberfest and the Children's Costume Parade.

FAMILY FUN FEST ON THE SALEM COMMON!

This next weekend on Saturday Oct. 25 & Sunday Oct. 26, 2008 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
join the Salem Common Neighborhood Association on Salem Common for tons of Family fun!

The SCNA's "Family Fest" will feature a variety of activities and attractions, including pumpkin decoration, a kids' collaborative mural design, pony rides, music at the common bandstand, and scrumptious free samples from Rita's Water Ice of Salem. Monster Mini Golf of Danvers will also be on hand to reveal the spooky side of the putting green.

What a weekend!!!!!!!!!!! Here is to the next week!

This weekend was as busy as ever for Haunted Happenings! Harvest Fest had lines all the way down the pedestrian mall way before it was even time for the doors to open. Children from around town brought their decorated pumpkins to Salem Common for the first pumpkin decorating contest. Judges spent the morning today reviewing the creations. The youngest entry was from a creative 19 month old and ages went up from there!

The second largest pumpkin from the fair last weekend in Topsfield was on display and the smell of fried dough and hotdogs filled the air! Hockey players of all sizes were seen running around the Common helping buyers pick out just the ride pumpkin at their pumpkin sale.

The sounds of motorcyles breezed through the city mid afternoon as men and women raising money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association rode into town. It is always a site to see and the glimmering bikes lined the streets after the event was over. Congratulations to the organizers for this 2oth year.

Butterflies, princesses, superheroes, ghosts, and other transformed children graced the city with their fun filled faces.

Tomorrow the next big event opens for the season. The Carnival on Derby Street opens on October 20. Today folks from Fiesta Shows were seen setting up rides and booths getting ready to open. A giant merry-go-round, ferris wheel and much more await you to climb on board and have fun!

So come on up to Salem, Massachusetts! Discover the magic, fun and happenings of the biggest Halloween celebration in the world!

Mayor Driscoll speaks about Haunted Happenings!

Listen to Mayor Kim Driscoll speak about Salem Haunted Happenings on TV Diner with Billy Costa!

Kate Fox From Destination Salem on Haunted Happenings!

Listen to Kate Fox, Executive Director of Destination Salem speak about Salem Haunted Happenings on NECN's TV Diner with Billy Costa!

Motor Cycle Run for Muscular Dystrophy Association

On Sunday October 19th the annual Halloween motorcycle run to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) will be coming to Salem. The ride is expected to arrive in Salem sometime between 1:00pm and 1:30pm and will enter Salem on Lafayette St. from Marblehead. The ride will proceed down Lafayette St., right on Derby St., and right on Congress St. ending at Shetland Park. Derby St. between Lafayette and Congress St. will be closed during this time and extensive traffic delays are expected in all areas of the route. please adjust your travel plans accordingly, thank you.

Giant Pumpkins, Hay Maizes and a Decoration Contest...Oh My!

Visit Salem Common this weekend with your children for more fun! See an 1112 pound pumpkin. Run through the hay maize. Check out all of the beautiful decorated pumpkins!

We invite Salem's children to bring their pumpkins to the common to enter the contest all day Saturday and Sunday. Their pumpkins will be on display throughout the rest of Haunted Happenings.

On Sunday, this weekend, the decorated pumpkins will be judged by a panel of esteemed artists from the city and prizes will be awarded!http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif

So come discover the magic of !!

Take the T to Salem!

No matter where you live in the Greater Boston areas there is apt to be a train heading to and from Boston to Salem! for the rest of this month extra trains have been added, as well as for Halloween Day and evening.

Also...parking is at a premium in Salem this time of year! The train arrives right in the middle of the downtown area within walking distance from EVERYTHING!

To find out more about taking visit the MBTA!

Harvest Fest, Winged Creatures and History!

As the harvest season descents upon us at the same time as Halloween, Salem is filled with celebrations of many kinds!

Friday through Sunday all of the historic presentations will be in full swing. History Alive brings two incredible shows. Cry Innocent is the story of Bridget Bishop with attendees voting her fate. This presentation is held at Old Town Hall. Spiritways: A Night in Besieged Salem Village at Pioneer Village is a full immersion through the village with the afflicted girls. This presentation can be scary for small children and children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent. Check the Featured Events section of the website for times.

At the House of the Seven Gables the Spirits of the Gables and Legacy of the Hanging Judge are running. These are stories about the Gables and the witchcraft hysteria.

For stories of the sea...Visit the Friendship on Derby Wharf in the evening hours for Chilling Tales by live performers. Visit SalemTheatre.com for more information.

For young people and families this weekend the Salem Maritime National HIstoric Site is hosting Skywalker the Golden Eagle and three of his fellow raptors. These beautiful creatures can be seen outdoors behind the Custom House. If the weather is bad the event will take place in St. Joseph's Hall. This is a free event and is limited to the first 75 people.

For adults there is Salem Harvest Fest in downtown on Essex Street at The Gathering. This is a tasting of fine beers, wine, and mead. There will be two tastings at 2 pm and 5:30 pm. Spaces fill quickly for this event! For more information go to SalemHarvestFest.com!

Food, Drink and Delicious Treats!

There are so many wonderful places to dine in Salem. For the past several years it is the restaurant scene here that has added greatly to the renaissance of the city. No matter what you want you will find it here.

For coffees, teas and sweet treats try one of our coffee and tea shops....Gulu Gulu Cafe near the Bewitched statue serves not only the usual coffee and tea selection but has a delightful selection of wines and beers in the evening hours. Coffee Time Bakeshop is a must stop on your way home! Pick up a wonderful cake, cookies, scones or fresh donuts.

Lots of people who come here want to know where to get good seafood. Wow...where can you not get good seafood! Almost every restaurant carries seafood of some kind. Lobster rolls seem to be widely requested. Capt's Waterfront, Finz and the Lobster Shanty have awesome and different renditions of this classic New England fare. Capt's and Finz along with Victoria Station also have great steaks. At Capt's you can enjoy freshly cooked food on a charcoal grill. On a warm fall afternoon also all three places have outdoor seating.

If you are looking for a good burger or lunch menu go to the pubs at the Hawthorne Hotel Tavern, The Regatta Pub at the Waterfront Hotel or Victoria Station! Elegant evening dinners can be had at Nathaniel's at the Hawthorne Hotel or at Strega's on Lafayette Street.

For an evening cocktail...Salem has some great martini locations. Strega has received awards for their list of Halloween oriented martini's. Add to it the great gothic style atmosphere you can relax and watch the crowds walk by. And don't forget to stop by Pamplemousse for their free mead and wine tastings on the weekends.

If you know you are coming to town, look over our restaurant sponsors and sponsors of Destination Salem and make your reservations before you come here. Restaurants fill up quickly and waiting lines are common!

Take the Salem Ferry and the T from Boston!

With parking at a premium here in town this month it is highly suggested that travelers from Boston take the Salem Ferry or the T from North Station to Salem.

The Salem Ferry docks at the Boston Aquarium for pickups in Boston and drops folks in Salem at Blaney Wharf, two blocks from The House of the Seven Gables, CityView Trolley and Salem Trolley both pick up passengers at Blaney Wharf for a fee for transport to the downtown area while getting a delightful tour. These trolleys offer hop on and off service all day long once you purchase your tickets.

The T comes right into downtown Salem from North Station. Once in Salem Station, walk up the stairs and the city is there waiting for you to have fun!

Both options offer ease getting in and out of Salem and you get to save gas and the environment! A great solution for so many reason!

Ms. Firefly's School, Haunted Trolley Rides and Parties This Weekend!

This weekend for children is Ms. Firefly's School of Spirit Conjuration! Join Ms.Firefly in some delightful fun as she shows children how not to be afraid of the spirits and how to conquers fears of the unknown! This playful workshop for kids is fun and Ms. Firefly's delightful sense of humor makes it fun for all ages. Participants will make special masks, magic wands and enjoy a ice cream buffet, hot cocoa and cider as well as coffee for our adult friends who attend! Tickets can be purchase online at www.FestivalOfTheDead.com.

A new kind of trolley ride has come to town and it a fun addition to the lineup of things to do in Salem! Hop on Tales & Tombstones if you dare for a grave undertaking! This new evening trolley tour is run by CityView Trolley this October! Listen to eerie tales of Salem's past from costumed guides as you journey this spooky tour around town.

Tours depart nightly at 7 pm and 9 pm from the CityView Trolley offices at 131-2 Essex Street near the Salem Visitor Center. Visit Tales & Tombstones for more information. Children are welcome though portions may be scary.

This weekend also begins the party season here in the Witch City! The Retro Zombie Ball begins at 8 pm on Saturday evening, October 11 at Finz on Pickering Wharf. The event is sponsored by Festival of the Dead. Dance to music of the 70's and 80's and old zombie songs, watch the Zombie-a-Go-Go Dancers drink a Toxic-tini or Eyeball Highball! Cash prize for the most creative cringingly zombie costume! Party ends at 12:30 pm. Go to www.FestivalOfTheDead.com for information and tickets.

And don't forget the Bootiful Pets event on Salem Common on Sunday! The Official Cat of Salem will be chosen (must be a Salem resident cat!) Registration begins at 10 am for cats and noon for dogs.

It promises to be a bootiful weekend so come on up to Salem and discover the magic and the fun of the season! Visit us at HauntedHappenings.org for the full weekend's schedule!

More Fun Events for the weekend at Haunted Happenings!

Lots of new events at the last minute are showing up from our event sponsors and advertisers. As they show up we will put them on the blog area and in the daily calendar!

Saturday, October 11
Get in the mood for Halloween with ghostgirl, the New York Times’ top ten best seller written by local author Tonya Hurley as she makes an appearance at Cornerstone Books. The book is at the forefront of a growing sub-genre of Young Adult fiction—dubbed ‘’demento mori’’ by Publisher’s Weekly in their starred review of the book—about teens who cannot or will not die. Cornerstone Books is located on Lafayette Street near Engine House Pizza and the city's fire station.

Monday, October 13
Join KISS 108 and General Motors to win $200 in free gas and dozens of other prizes in the KISS 108 Fall Games on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall October 13th from 12 noon to 2 pm. Hear great music, pick up free gear, check out the newest in hybrid and fuel efficient vehicles from GM, and take play to win great prizes including a grand prize of $200 in free gas.

Columbus Day Weekend Celebrations and Fun!

          

This coming weekend will begin the full blown expression of Halloween in downtown Salem with the Salem Chamber of Commerce Haunted Biz Baz! 

Artisans and downtown retailers along with area non-profit groups will gather on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, along Hawthorne Boulevard down towards Pickering Wharf's Wharf Knots Event. the Picking Wharf Merchant Association will host on the Wharf it's own shopping extravaganza called Wharf Knots!  

Everything from arts, crafts, food, kettle corn ( for those of us who are freaks about it!) and so on will be available. Downtown Salem's merchants will throw open their doors for a shopping experience not to be missed! Everything from fine wines, kitchen wares, clothing, tattoo services, witchy wares, and so on will be available! Visit many of our fine Haunted Happenings retail sponsors such as Pamplemousse (free mead tastings this weekend!), The Trolley Depot, Wicked Goodz, Hex, Sophia's, Crunchy Granola Baby, The Broom Closet, The Goddess' Treasure Chest, Treasures Over Time, Harley Davidson, Remember Salem, Fool's Mansion, Witch Tees, Angelica's. Cornerstone Books and Crow Haven Corner can be found in the downtown area along with many other great stores!

On Pickering Wharf have lunch or dinner at some of our restaurant sponsors  such as Finz Not-So-Hip Seafood, Capt's Restaurant, Grill & Pub, 62 on the Wharf, Regatta Pub, and Victoria Station for delectable and delicious New England fare. For your shopping pleasure on Pickering Wharf visit Quint Essentials, Artemesia Botanicals, Nu Aeon and Pyramid Books along with  many other wonderful boutiques.

Add all of this to more wonderful museum shops and retail establishments than we can squeeze into this blog space with the fair type atmosphere and there is a full weekend waiting for your pleasure. Discover the magic of Salem as a shopping and dining destination unlike any other place in the world!

Haunted and Spooky Historical Presentations

This weekend begins many of the events and presentations around town. Every weekend from October 3 through November 1 you can visit three historical presentations presented by The House of the Seven Gables and Gordon College's History Alive!

Discover the many surprises in The House of the Seven Gables. Admission includes guided tours, gardens, and museum store. Continuous tours daily 9:30am–7:00pm. 115 Derby St. 978.744.0991 7gables.org

Call ahead of time and book your visit to two events The House of the Seven Gables is presenting in the evenings.

At Spirits of the Gables witness two families entangled by a curse in this presentation of The House of the Seven Gables acted in the mansion that inspired the story. In Legacy of the Hanging Judge experience scenes from the Witchcraft Hysteria are reenacted in this presentation acted in the rooms of Hawthorne’s Birthplace. Productions run October 10, 11, 12, 2008 7:30pm - 9:30pm and October 17, 18, 24, 25, 31, and November 1, 2008 7:15pm - 11:00pm. Both shows run continuously and are 35 minutes long. For reservations and tickets call 978.744.0991 7gables.org

History Alive! from Gordon College is presenting three historical reenactments. At Cry Innocent: the People Versus Bridget Bishop imagine it’s April 1692. Bridget Bishop is accused of witchcraft and you are on the jury! Each show is different: play your part in history! October 6 - 31. Multiple shows daily. Old Town Hall, 32 Derby Square. Presented by History Alive!.

At Pioneer Village visit the Naumkeag/Salem of the 1630s. Tour the three acre, re-created village to learn about early customs and trades. Historically accurate costumed guides. Participatory activities. Nestled in Forest River Park next to the ocean & picnic grounds. Open for group and self guided tours.

Travel to Spiritways: A Night in Besieged Salem Village where History Alive! presents a terrifying night-time visit to the Salem of the infamous “afflicted girls”. Custom-written for Pioneer Village, Forest River Park, this is a full-immersion journey through village and woods. Children under thirteen only admitted with a parent or legal guardian. Not recommended for young children. Shuttle and combination tickets with Cry Innocent available. Saturday nights in October. Show times 7:13, 8:13, 9:13, 10:13 & 11:13pm

Combination tickets available with Cry Innocent, Spiritways and Pioneer Village (daytime) tours. 978.867.4767 www.gordon.edu/historyalive/productions

More Fabulous Fun Tonight!

Last night's parade was fun and continues to grow. Pirates, fairies, Wendy, Peter, Captain Hook, alligators and more wondered down the streets of Salem celebrating the opening of Salem Haunted Happenings. Area high school bands played the marching beats along with bands on floats from area restaurants.

Today and tonight the fun continues! From 3 pm until 10 pm today is Mayor's Night Out. This event is in partnership with Salem's attractions and museums welcomes Salem residents with ID free admission & free parking in the East India Mall garage after 4pm. Look for "Mayor's Night Out" sign on the door of participating businesses.

Also this evening at 5:30 pm is Trick or Treating with the Mayor for children in Salem! Meet at the East India Fountain. The groups will trick-or-treat on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall shops and inside the Museum Place Mall shops. Trick-or-Treat Bags provided. Costumes encouraged.

Tomorrow on Saturday, October 4 begins many of the other events in the city. Visit our daily event calendar at HauntedHappenings.org for detailed information on the hauntings and fun!

The Bewitching Time is Almost Here!

One more day until the kick off of the Grand Opening Parade for Salem's Haunted Happenings! As you can see from these images every body from the Mayor to business owners to children love the parade! More moms than I can imagine were heading on off to various stores today looking for the final touches or in some cases the perfect costume for their children to wear in the parade.

This year's theme is "Never, Neverland" so it will be fun to see the different ideas to celebrate the theme. There will be floats, marching bands from the area schools, haunted trolleys, and so much more to see. Remember to park your car and leave it because the streets will be closed for the fectivities. You can check the HauntedHappenings.org or Salem.com websites for specifics.

There are great spots to bring a chair and sit to watch the parade Thursday October 2, 2008 5:30-8:00 PM. Remember to look for those who are sitting so you don't stand in their way. Another great spot to sit will be at Rockafella's where the parade turns off of Washington Street on to Essex Street. Sit at their outdoor cafe for $25 you can enjoy a reserved seat in the premium area on the parade path and delicious appetizers from the complimentary appetizer bar. Their full tantalizing menu will also be available. Seating is limited so call for reservations 978-745-2411.

The parade begins at Shetland Park on Congress Street, looping down Derby Street, Washington Street, down Essex and ending at Salem Common.

We look forward to seeing many of you who live locally there! Let the hauntings begin!

Salem Theatre Company's Annual Chilling Tales Event

Photos of actor is Chris Clark with Photo Copyrighted to John Fogle.

Salem Theatre Company (STC) once again boards the historic Friendship, at Salem's Derby Wharf, for its 6th annual Chilling Tales. Three new original stories of the strange and supernatural will be told by professional actors in period costumes. Beginning the weekend of October 3rd through October 26th Chilling Tales will run Fridays from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.; Saturdays from 5 p.m.- 9 p.m ; Sundays from 4 p.m.- 8 p.m. Up to 15 people board every 15 minutes for this 45 minute performance that travels through different parts of the ship. Tickets can be purchased online at www.salemtheatre.com or at the STC Box Office at Derby Wharf on the night of performance. Ticket prices are $15 adult and $10 children 13 and under. We regret that phone reservations cannot be accepted for Chilling Tales.

Hundreds of years ago, Salem was a bustling port filled with ships heading in and out of the harbor. Large cargo vessels set sail into uncharted waters, venturing to lands unknown. On board these ships, young crewmen sought adventure while facing the unpredictable sea. What happened to ships that never returned, lost at sea forever? For generations, seafarers have told tales of their voyages. Encounters with mutiny, forces of nature, and even the supernatural have all been a part of maritime history. These accounts inspire STC's Chilling Tales aboard the Friendship. During Chilling Tales, you will experience the confinements of being on a cargo ship, sitting in the dimly lite cabins below at night, perhaps such tight quarters could make a man go crazy, especially out at sea. Although the Friendship cannot leave the dock, Chilling Tales and STC provide a dramatic experience inside this reconstructed vessel.

The three original stories that were selected this year intertwine from one tale to the next, keeping the audience moving through the Friendship, anxious to hear more about the tale. "Over the last few seasons, Chilling Tales has developed into a genuine theatrical production by engaging its audience," states Director, Catherine Bertrand. "The actors are always up to the challenge of being on the Friendship for their performances, even for them it's a whole new experience being 'off stage' in a manner of speaking."

Chilling Tales aboard the Friendship will be performed by local actors, including Gianna Baglioni, Jude Bascom, Stephen Bascom, Jim Burkholder, Mia Cowper, Casey Matteson, Tom Ostrowski, Tom Sprague, Al Vatour, Miles Hartfelder, a Salem High School sophomore and member of the SHS drama club, Andy Mattox and Katelyn Collins, are both students in SSC's Theatre Department. Chilling Tales welcomes back Chris Clark and Art Hennessey, who have both been with this STC event since its inception. They also authored the original stories that will be heard during the performances, as well as acting.

STC would like to thank Dirk Isbrandtsen, owner of Capt's Waterfront Restaurant,Grill and Pub www.capts.com and Jim Hurrell, owner of the Witch Dungeon, New England Pirate Museum, and the Witch History Museum www.piratemuseum.com for sponsoring Chilling Tales this year.

The Friendship was reconstructed in 1998, as a way for the community to gain insight into Salem's important maritime history. The original Friendship traded goods from the Far East to Salem Harbor during the late 18th and 19th century. The cargo ship is currently maintained by the National Park Service and is part of Salem's Maritime National Historic Site. STC will be giving a portion of the proceeds from Chilling Tales to assist the Park Service with its year round maintenance and educational programming, enabling the public to explore and learn more about Salem's maritime history throughout the year.

For more information, call 978.790.8546 or visit www.salemtheatre.com.

The Salem Theatre Company is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the economic, cultural, and artistic quality of life in the Salem community through the performing arts and arts education outreach.

Brochure Edits, Errors and Updates

The Official City Guide of Events, Calendar and Map for Salem Haunted Happenings is produced with many events planned in advance. They may sell out or be canceled at the last minute. We invite you to call ahead for the events you are interested in.

On our HauntedHappenings.org website you will find a page with errors in the guidebook. There are some phone number edits, address additions and date changes. We try our hardest to be a complete as possible with a team of many people checking facts, proofreading and so on but there are some mistakes.

We will be updating our pdf on Monday evenings as needed. VIsit the event website also for further information.

Currently these are the following updates to the brochure:

#9 The House of the Seven Gables
The Spirits of the Gables and Legacy of the Hanging Judge events in the daily listings have an inaccurate ending time. These tours end at 11:00pm on October 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 and November 1. 7Gables.org

#12 The Hawthorne Hotel
The CarnEvil Creep Show Ball is on Friday, October 31 not Saturday! For reservations call 978-744-4080. HawthorneHotel.com

#89 Cornerstone Books
This great book store is located at 45 Lafayette Street in Salem. On the guide map they are listed as number 89 near Central Street. Just go one more street over and you will find them along with best reading for the Fall. CornerstoneBooks-Salem.com

#93 Fool's Mansion
To visit their website go to FoolsMansion.com. This was not in the booklet.

The Witch City Haunted Octoberfest sponsored by Ipswich Ale
This event did not have a location at the time we went to print. The festivities will be held at the Front Street Parking area. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 978-745-4343.

Interested in going to a party???

So you want to go to a party while you are in Salem?

Well this year our parties begin starting Columbus Day weekend and go throughout the month on a variety of evenings! ID's are required at all but the children's parties!

Saturday, October 11
On Saturday of Columbus Day weekend the festivities begin the the Retro Zombie Ball at Finz on Pickering Wharf. Put on your best zombie costume! There you can dance to the tunes of the 70's and 80's and zombie songs. You can find out more information by visiting FestivaloftheDead.com.

Saturday, October 18
Salem Harvestfest does not require a costume at all! Celebrate the tastes of the fall harvests with at a mead, beer and wine tasting sponsored by Pamplemousse in Salem on October 18. There will be two tastings at 2 pm and 5:30 pm. Go to SalemHarvestFest.com for more information and to order tickets!

Weekend - October 24-26
Dig out your leiderhosen, derndils and drinking horns! For the first time ever visit the Witch City Haunted Oktoberfest on Front Street October 24-26. Celebrate olde German traditions with Ipswich Ale and Moon Haven Productions with food and entertainment. On October 24 at 7 pm come and hear a caberet style act called "Charmed and Dangerous" from New York. October 25 & 26 celebrate with polkas, ompah music and other entertainment. Tickets can be purcahse in advance by calling 978-745-4343. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Saturday, October 25
Looking for something for the kids? On Saturday afternoon October 25 the Annual Children's Party by the Phoenix School will take place. Games and crafts abound. Find out more information at PhoenixSchool.org.

That same evening swing by the Salem Waterfront Hotel's Wicked Night on the Wharf on Pickering Wharf! Dance to music and dress up for the costume contest! Visit SalemWaterfrontHotel.com.

Dig out your tools and head on over to the Annual Vampire Masquerade Ball! Indulge in a gothic evening unlike any other. Cash prizes. Tickets can be purchased by contacting FestivaloftheDead.com.

Interested in partying at sea! Dress on up and go on over to the Salem Ferry Dock on Blaney Street for The Salem Ferry's Costume Party at sea. For more information go to SalemFerry.com/shc.shtml.

Sunday, October 26
For an incredible children's party make reservations at the Hawthorne Hotel's Stop by for a Spell Children's Party! Entertaining characters, delicious treats and pumpkin decorating! Visit HawthorneHotel.com.

Friday, October 31 - Halloween Night
These parties will sell out quickly so book soon!

Join Salem's Witches at the Lyceum Restaurant for A Feast to the Spirits! An evening of food, honoring the spirits of those who have been part of our lives and delectable food and entertainment. Call Crow Haven Corner at 978-745-8763.

Interested in the largest Halloween party in town? Go the the Hawthorne Hotel's CarnEvil Creep Show Ball! Dance to the sounds of "Hush", DJ's, limited edition t-shirts, photos, and over $1500 in costume prizes! Visit HawthorneHotel.com for more information on purchasing tickets.

Party at Capt's Topsides and Deck overlooking haunting Salem Harbor on beautiful Pickering Wharf! Music, prizes and cash bar! For ticket information go to Capts.com or call 978-741-0555.

Saturday, November 1
Finish Haunted Happenings festivities up at The Official Salem Witches' Ball at the Hawthorne Hotel sponsored by Festival of the Dead. Join Witches from all over the world as they celebrate their New Year. Guest appearances by Fiona Horne of Mad House, musician and singer Wendy Rule direct from Australia and the Dragon RItual Drummers group! Cash prizes and free psychic readings! Rates amongst the top ten Halloween parties on AOL. For more information go to FestivaloftheDead.com.

Salem Haunted Happenings on the Radio!!!!

If you are traveling to Salem for this year's Haunted Happenings you might wish to listen to KISS 108 or North Shore 104.9 either on the air or streaming! There will be fabulous opportunities to hear about the day's events on both stations.

North Shore 104.9 will give Haunted Happenings on air during the week with updated information as needed.

KISS 108 will have giveaways to attractions, tours and a special passes to some of this year's Halloween evening parties!

Stay tune here for more information!

The Official City 2008 Salem Haunted Happenings Event Guide

Destination Salem's Official City Guide and Map to this year's Haunted Happenings events, venues, sponsors, and advertisers is now available online or by mail. It is 24 pages choked full of ongoing and daily events. Listed in it are all of the businesses and sponsors who participated in this year's advertising campaign.

Also in the guide is a pull out map pointing to where many of the events are taking place. Look for the number next to the event and match it to the same number on the map!

During October you can hear moments of Haunted Happenings with North Shore Radio 104.9 and KISS 108. Community News will send event inserts to over 30 communities across the state and you will see billboards along three major routes on the North Shore. So keep your eyes open and turn on your radio for daily information from our radio partners.

Over the coming weeks we will be posting here about upcoming events also, where to eat, and much more. Watch HauntedHappenings.org and Salem.com for street closings and where to park.

The hauntingly glorious season of Fall is just a week away with Salem Haunted Happenings coming right up on its heels. We look forward to seeing you here!

The Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Opening Parade!

Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Opening Parade sponsored by the Salem Chamber of Commerce kicks off the season here on Thursday October 2 at 6:30 pm. This event brings out Salem's children in their finest costumes, marching bands, decorated floats, cars and trolleys as well as our public officials. This year's theme for the parade is "Never, Never Land!" Visions for fairies, Peter Pan, the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, and so on will adorn the streets.

The parade starts at the Shetland Office park and ends on Salem Common near the Hawthorne Hotel. Please watch the Official City website at HauntedHappenings.org or Salem.com for street closings and where to park.

For more information about the Parade call the Salem Chamber of Commerce or Destination Salem. See you all there!

Many thanks to Kishgraphics for use of this image.

Over 130 Opportunities for Fun!

This is shaping up to be one of the best years for Salem's Haunted Happenings! With over 130 events, venues, attractions, places to shop and be entertained, there are lots of new opportunities to have fun for all ages.

On Salem Common every weekend there will be activities for children and families. Pumpkin painting contests for children, getting your picture taken with a giant pumpkin, mazes, fair foods and games abound.

For those wishing fun, there is a new party for Columbus Day weekend, a chance to pop over to Salem State College and learn the Thriller Zombie dance with tons of other people, parties every weekend someplace and a Halloween evening party of all parties that will fill all of Pickering Wharf up!

For those die hard shoppers – there will be the annual street fair, a fun shopping extravaganza hosted by the Pickering Wharf businesses and new gift shops for your Halloween souvenir collections.

If you come to have your fortune told there are many new psychic faires all over town. New to the psychic fair scene is Crow Haven Corner along with all of the other wonderful venues from the past.

Of course there are many of the traditional events and activities like the Haunted BizBaz on Essex Street, The Witches Ball, tales on the Friendship, and spirits at many local attractions and museums. An then...the haunted tours! There are more than ever and some tell the stories of the City of Peace never told before!

So start putting your costumes together and come to the biggest outdoor Halloween party in the world!

What is Salem's Haunted Happenings?

Haunted Happenings bean as a daylong party for children. Over time it has grown to a one week, two week and now month long celebration. It has also gone from a few individuals planning it to hundreds of community members,  businesses, community groups, churches, schools and corporations working together to welcome the world's visitors. It is our city's gift to the season and we invite you all to come!

The streets are filled with fabulous merchants, award winning restaurants, dramatic theatrical productions, psychic fairs, scary haunted houses, children's activities, and world renown museums! There is something for all ages to do.

Salem is a fine walking city also and because of that you will not miss a beat of the activities and excitement. Bring a good pair of walking shoes. If that is not your style, then hop on and off trolleys or ride in a pedicab once you arrive in the city. 

To get to Salem we strongly suggest public transportation! Parking is tight in our small community but you can take the train from North Station in Boston or hop on the Salem Ferry which leaves Central Wharf in Boston near the Aquarium. On board the ferry you can purchase discount tickets to transportation on shore.

Our hotels fill quickly for the season. Call ahead for reservations if you wish to stay in Salem. Visit our website for more information on accommodations. 

You will also want to check about making reservations at many of our museums and haunted attractions for the event. With so many visitors long lines are normal if you do not book ahead.

So come, visit our enchanting city. Discover its magic along with the magic of the season!

Sign up to be a Haunted Happenings Advertising Sponsor!

It is time to sign up and become an advertising sponsor for Salem's Official 2008 Haunted Happenings campaign. Being a sponsor is a great opportunity for visibility for your company in collaboration with community organizations and businesses. 

Advertising together as a whole community allows small businesses and larger ones to work together with their resources to advertise this national premiere Halloween event. Advertising starts at $250-$500 for business and event listings. Corporate sponsorships begin at $1000 to $10,000. Your business will have exposure in print collateral and our website as well as in press kits and media leads. Sponsorships for events are also available.

Please contact us if you are interested in becoming and advertising or event for the largest Halloween event in New England! Email us at info@hauntedhappenings.org.