Salem, Massachusetts is a city steeped in history, and no time of year showcases its spirit more than Halloween season. The Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade is one of the must-see events that kicks off the Halloween festivities.

As part of the month-long Salem Haunted Happenings Festival, this iconic parade is a thrilling experience for locals and visitors alike. Here’s everything you need to know about the Salem Grand Parade, including event dates, route details, tickets, themes, and more.

Event Details: Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade 2024

• Event Date: The Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade will take place on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, starting at 6:30 PM.
• Location: The parade will begin at Sheffield Street and make its way through downtown Salem, finishing at Salem Common.
• Admission: This family-friendly event is free to attend, with no tickets required.

The Parade Route: Best Viewing Spots and Map

The Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade follows a scenic route through some of Salem’s most famous streets. The parade kicks off from Sheffield Street, winds through Congress Street, passes by the historic Essex Street, and concludes at Salem Common, one of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Best Viewing Spots

• Essex Street: One of the busiest parts of the route, this is a fantastic spot if you love being in the heart of the action.
• Washington Street: Perfect for families, Washington Street offers wide sidewalks and space to enjoy the parade comfortably.
• Salem Common: Want to watch the floats go by in a scenic setting? Salem Common provides a beautiful backdrop for the parade.

Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade 2024 Schedule

Event Detail	Information
Parade Date	Thursday, October 3rd, 2024
Start Time	6:30 PM
End Time	Approximately 8:30 PM (depending on crowd and pace)
Starting Point	Sheffield Street, Salem, Massachusetts
Ending Point	Salem Common, Salem, Massachusetts
Parade Route	Sheffield Street → Congress Street → Essex Street → Salem Common
Best Viewing Spots	Essex Street, Washington Street, Salem Common
Admission	Free
Event Theme	To Be Announced
Food Vendors Open	Throughout the parade route (beginning at 5:00 PM)
Entertainment Begins	Pre-parade performances and floats begin at 6:00 PM

Parade Theme for 2024

Each year, the Grand Parade has a unique theme, adding excitement and creativity to the costumes, floats, and performances. For 2024, the theme is expected to be announced soon.

Past themes have included everything from “Hocus Pocus” to “Out of This World.” Keep an eye on the official announcements for the 2024 theme reveal!

Costumes, Floats, and Entertainment

The Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade is known for its spectacular costumes, awe-inspiring floats, and lively entertainment. Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, the vibrant costumes are a highlight of the event.

Costume Ideas for 2024

Need ideas for what to wear? Here are some crowd-pleasing costume ideas inspired by Salem’s rich history and the spooky season:

• Classic Witch or Warlock: Salem is the ultimate destination for witch-themed costumes.
• Historical Figures: Pay homage to Salem’s storied past by dressing up as a 17th-century resident.
• Pop Culture Icons: Halloween is all about creativity, so don’t be afraid to go bold with costumes from your favorite TV shows or movies.

Parade Floats and Entertainment

Expect a dazzling display of elaborate floats, each reflecting the creativity and energy of the Salem community. Dance troupes, marching bands, and local performers keep the parade lively and engaging from start to finish. In previous years, floats have been designed around everything from mystical creatures to Halloween horror themes.

Food Vendors and Dining Options

After enjoying the parade, you can sample Salem’s wide range of food offerings. Local food vendors will line the streets, providing everything from classic New England clam chowder to spooky-themed treats. Don’t miss out on indulging in some local delicacies while watching the parade.

Some popular food vendors include:

• Howling Wolf Taqueria: Offering a unique twist on tacos and burritos, perfect for a quick bite.
• Salem’s Retreat: Known for comfort food that hits the spot on a chilly October night.

Top Nearby Restaurants

• Finz Seafood & Grill: Known for fresh seafood, this is a top spot for post-parade dining.
• Bit Bar Salem: For those looking for a casual, fun atmosphere with video games and great burgers, Bit Bar is the place to go.

History of the Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade

The Salem Grand Parade has become an integral part of the Salem Haunted Happenings Festival, a month-long celebration of Halloween.

The parade began decades ago as a way to unite the community and has grown into a massive event, attracting thousands of spectators each year. Its rich history reflects Salem’s enduring connection to Halloween and its embrace of fun, family-friendly events for all.

Parade Tickets and Accessibility

One of the best aspects of the Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade is that it’s completely free. No tickets are required, making it accessible to all. Early arrival is recommended to snag a good viewing spot, especially along Essex Street or near Salem Common.

Accessibility for All

The parade is designed to be inclusive, with plenty of ADA-accessible viewing areas along the route. Salem Common is an excellent location for those requiring more space or easy access.

Other Salem Halloween Attractions

If you’re in Salem for the parade, be sure to check out the wide variety of Halloween-themed activities happening throughout the month. Here are some popular events and attractions:

• Witch Dungeon Museum: Experience a live reenactment of a witch trial from the 1690s.
• Salem Witch Museum: Learn about the infamous Salem Witch Trials with engaging exhibits.
• Haunted Happenings Marketplace: A must-visit for all your Halloween shopping needs, offering unique crafts, artwork, and more.

Final Tips for Attending the Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade

• Arrive Early: Streets fill up fast, so plan to arrive early for the best spots.
• Dress Warm: October nights in Massachusetts can be chilly. Make sure to dress warmly, especially if you’re planning to stay for the whole parade.
• Bring Cash: While most vendors accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for food or souvenirs.

Table: Quick Event Overview

Event	Details
Date	October 3rd, 2024, 6:30 PM
Location	Salem, Massachusetts (Starts at Sheffield St.)
Admission	Free
Best Viewing Spots	Essex Street, Washington Street, Salem Common
Parade Theme 2024	To Be Announced
Food Vendors	Howling Wolf Taqueria, Salem’s Retreat
Costume Ideas	Witches, Historical Figures, Pop Culture

With its rich history, vibrant floats, and endless entertainment, the Salem Haunted Happenings Grand Parade is a must-attend event that sets the stage for a month of Halloween festivities.

Whether you’re a Salem local or a visitor looking to immerse yourself in the magic of the season, this parade is sure to leave you with memories to cherish.