Christmas in Salem Massachusetts: What to Do & See
We all know that when you hear the word “Christmas in Salem Massachusetts,” it’s always the witch trials that you imagine, but Salem is so much more than that. It’s got art, history, food, and flavour in every corner. This is why we have devised this Christmas in Salem Massachusetts guide to let you know that Salem is not only about America’s dark past only but also about the Christmas cheer and unforgettable experience.
1. Christmas Tour
If you want to experience a holiday season that is filled with hospitality and nostalgia, then we believe the Salem Christmas walking tour might be a great fit. Once you step inside the tour, you are stepping into a pathway that showcases America’s most historic towns, decorated in twinkling lights.
As you take this 90-minute tour, you will come across Chestnut Street, Witch House, and Old Town Hall. You will hear stories of Puritan traditions, yuletide folklore, and customs that existed in Salem long before you were born.
All the spots over here are magazine-worthy, so your Instagram photos will receive a dozen likes. In addition, you will get to experience handmade gifts and boutique shops that would make you appreciate art and traditional fashion.
If you are visiting Salem for the first time and want to have a unique experience this Christmas, we believe the Salem Christmas tour has no equal. It’s fun, festive, and also makes you educated on Salam’s rich history and culture.
2. Salem Art Gallery
Some may find it offensive, as this Art gallery is also known as the Satanic Temple. But if you keep your religious thoughts aside and enjoy the spirit of Christmas in Salem Massachusetts , we believe that you would love it here. People say it’s a place where art and faith intermingle, and we say that’s both provocative and educational.
Once you enter the settings, you will get to witness some occult themes like unholy saints by Sean, Ugly talents, and So far by Christian Whitton. Furthermore, you will get to see A Baphomet statue and symbolism created by Mark Porter. In addition, you will also find candles, apparel, or books that are related to their name. This is not a typical museum, but bold artwork in public display. It’s a curated space where paganism and high-quality art are displayed.
3. Old Pepper Candy Companies
Salem has one of the oldest candy shops in America, and this one dates back to 1830. This shop has a very interesting story behind it. A shipwreck survivor appeared in Salem in a critical condition. He had no place to love nor any money to fund his lifestyle, and thus the neighbours donated a barrel of sugar, and he made a sweet dish based on that. These were the first commercially sold candies in America.
In 1830, the company was sold to John Peper, who first invented candies with sticks. These were the stick-shaped candies that were sold in the US for the first time. Later, long-time employees George and Alice Burkenshaw bought the place and now run it by the 4th generation of Burkenshaw. The store is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day, and they serve century-old candies and also modern ones. You will love it here.
4. Witchside Tavern
Christmas in Salem Massachusetts cannot be completed without mentioning Witchside Tavern. This is a beautifully decorated restaurant with Witch decor. The smash burgers are yum, and seafood and comfort dishes will make you love this place. This hotspot also offers a variety of drinks, local beers, craft cocktails, and seasonal specials. All the bartenders provide attention to detail, and they serve you with humility and a smile. Their flatbread has been the talk of the town, and some of the Reddit users have commented, “Flatbread is divine, there is no equal.”
5 . Hawthorne Hotel
If you are planning to stay and have dinner at an amazing place, we would suggest that you head over to the Hawthorne Hotel. This is a 93-room hotel that was named after the Salem author called as Nathial Hawthorne. The hotel has modern-day facilities available like mini fridges, kitchen coffee makers, wifi, TV, and free wifi. One of the criticisms that this hotel faces every few years is some instances of paranormal activity in the hallways and some rooms.
A recent Reddit user known as Jonathan said, “ It was around 1 am and I suddenly felt very cold in my room. I was hyperventilating and was out of breath, then I saw shadows across halllwauy. Let these not trouble you, as the hotel has a rating of 9.5/10, so you will get very good service here
6. Salem Witch Museum
This museum has been famous since it features America’s darkest chapters in 1692. The history of this tragedy is told by a large presentation with lightning effects and dialogue. They are open all year round from 10 am – 5 pm and admission is 19 for adults and $17 for children. We would advise you to arrive 30 minutes before check-in because it experiences a heavy crowd all year.
Takeaway
These top draws of Christmas in Salem Massachusetts, that we have mentioned in the article, have been given to let to know that Salem is not just a place of sightseeing seeing but it is a history of art and culture. Yes, it does have a horrific past that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have a history of transformation. The entire place has art, culture, food, and heritage waiting to tell their story. Salem is for everyone, whether you are bringing your family to enjoy the places or just soaking up the atmosphere, everything is magical.