Above Photo Credit – Jason Baker Photography
December brings twinkling lights, winter markets, and a season full of Holiday Happenings in Salem. Cozy cafés, winter walking tours, menorah lightings, festive food, and one-of-a-kind gifts fill the month – along with holiday trolley rides, handmade workshops, and merry moments all across the city.
Whether you’re shopping small, sipping something seasonal, or making new memories downtown, Salem in December feels magical from morning to midnight.
Grave Tidings Holiday Market – December 6 – 7
A delightfully dark twist to holiday shopping at historic Old Town Hall. Hosted by Witch City Wicks, this eerie-but-cheerful market features a curated lineup of gothic, witchy, and darkly inspired artists and makers – perfect for finding one-of-a-kind holiday gifts with a spooky edge.
Church Street Cheer – December 12
Celebrate the season with a festive holiday shopping event featuring Die With Your Boots On, Hive & Forge, and more. Enjoy in-store specials, pop-ups, live music, and plenty of holiday vibes as you shop local and explore this creative corner of Salem.
Wassail Weekend – December 13 – 14
Spend the day supporting local shops, enjoying special promotions, and discovering one-of-a-kind gifts throughout downtown. Keep an eye out on Sunday – Santa and roaming carolers will be spreading cheer as you stroll.
Sip & Shop: A Holiday Market on Historic Derby Street – December 14
Raise a glass and soak in the charm, Sip & Shop brings the neighborhood spirit of Derby Street to life – with festive cocktails, tasty bites, and a curated lineup of local makers offering handcrafted gifts, treats, and seasonal treasures. A warm holiday afternoon of shopping, sipping, and community cheer at Trade House.
Holiday Trolley: Catch the Gingerbread Man – December 13 – 14
Join the Good Witch of Salem for a magical Gingerbread Man quest aboard the Holiday Trolley. Start with an interactive story time at her shop, learn how gingerbread cookies are made, and keep watch – one of those little Gingerbread Men just might come to life!
Yuletide Sea Witch Ball Workshop – Select December Dates
Join The Sea Wych Salem for a magical Yuletide workshop honoring the shortest day of the year and the return of the light. Through a brief meditation and guided crafting session, guests will create their own Yuletide sea witch ball – a meaningful keepsake infused with seasonal intention.
“A Christmas Carol” Holiday Trolley – Now – December 23
All aboard! Experience a lively and whimsical retelling of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol while riding through Salem on the Holiday Trolley. This interactive production has been a beloved seasonal tradition for nearly four decades. Tours depart from Timeless Life Treasures – seats are limited and shows fill quickly, so be sure to reserve in advance!
New Years Eve Launch! – December 31
Ring in 2026 family-style with Salem Main Streets and the City of Salem, a fun-filled New Year’s Eve celebration for all ages. Enjoy hands-on art projects, magic shows, face painting, temporary tattoos, a silent disco, and more – plus an early countdown just before 6 PM for those celebrating early.
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Holiday Happenings in Salem: Now – December 31 ❄️
Presented by Salem Main Streets & Creative Collective
The holidays shine bright in Salem! From Santa’s grand arrival and the twinkling Tree Lighting to festive window displays, shopping events, and seasonal celebrations, the city transforms into a winter wonderland by the sea. Experience the magic of the season, support local shops, and soak in all the joy that makes Salem the North Shore’s holiday destination.
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Things to Do ✨
Think Salem’s hauntings end on Halloween? Think again. This December, The Salem Night Tour invites you to uncover the city’s darker side of the holidays with The Twisted Christmas Tour – a spine-tingling walk through tales of Yuletide mischief, ghostly legends, and Victorian fright. Back for its third year, this special seasonal tour runs Friday and Saturday nights in December, blending Salem history, eerie storytelling, and just the right dose of holiday spirit. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and prepare for a night of chilling Christmas tales that bring the past to life in unforgettable fashion.
Step inside the 1668 mansion and experience Christmas through the centuries at The House of the Seven Gables. This seasonal tour explores how Christmas evolved in New England – from the Puritan ban on holiday celebrations to the arrival of Christmas trees, immigrant traditions, and the moment the holiday became a national celebration. With lavish decorations and stories that span generations, it’s a festive, immersive way to welcome the season and carry its spirit with you all year long.
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Holiday Happenings at Trade House on Derby Street 🎅
Trade House on Derby Street has fully transformed for the season with festive décor, a glowing fireplace, and a full lineup of holiday happenings. Enjoy weekly Sunday brunch beginning November 30, Brunch with Santa, Sip & Shop with local makers, creative craft nights, and a holiday cocktail menu perfect for winter gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or planning a seasonal outing, Trade House offers a warm and welcoming backdrop for the holidays.
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Visit Salem.org to begin planning your visit today!
Tags: Christmas, December in Salem, Destination Salem App, Holiday Happenings, Holidays, New Years, Salem Holiday Happenings, salem ma, Santa, sustainable travel, Things to Do in Salem in December
