Things to Do in Salem in November

Photo Credit – @purelysalem

November is full of reasons to fall in love with Salem! From Thanksgiving dining and cozy meals in historic restaurants to browsing independent shops and discovering the kick-off Holiday Happenings, there’s plenty to fill your visit. As the holidays approach, Salem gets ready to celebrate in its own unforgettable style, with Santa arriving atop the Hawthorne Hotel, the annual tree lighting, and festive events throughout downtown. It’s a wonderful time to shop small, gather with friends and family, and welcome the holidays, Salem style!

Photo Credit – Jess Shada / @destsalem

Stitch Night at Circle of Stitches | 11/02
Grab your knitting, crochet, or favorite fiber project and join Circle of Stitches for a cozy evening of creativity and community! Whether you’re an experienced stitcher or just getting started, Stitch Night is a welcoming opportunity to work on your projects, share ideas, and connect with fellow fiber enthusiasts in Salem.

Salem Literary Festival | 11/12 – 11/15
Celebrating its 17th year and Salem’s 400th anniversary, the festival brings more than 40 writers and presenters together for readings, author conversations, and children’s programming. Events are free, with both online and in-person sessions.

Salem Restaurant Week | 11/15 – 11/19
Salem Restaurant Week is a delicious excuse to explore the city’s dining scene, from neighborhood restaurants and cozy cafés to pizza spots, bakeries, and more. Discover new flavors, revisit places you love, and make a meal part of your next Salem adventure. Brought to you by the Salem Chamber of Commerce.

Thanksgiving Day Buffet at the Hawthorne Hotel | 11/26
Leave the cooking and cleanup behind this Thanksgiving and spend more time enjoying the holiday with family and friends! The historic Hawthorne Hotel is setting the table for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration, complete with a delicious buffet, seasonal favorites, and plenty of sweet treats. Reservations open November 2nd.

Santa’s Arrival & Holiday Tree Lighting | 11/27
Kick off the holiday season with a beloved Salem tradition! Join Salem Main Streets on Salem Common at 5:45 p.m. to watch Santa make his grand arrival atop the Hawthorne Hotel, with a little help from the Salem Fire Department! Then follow the festive lantern-lit procession to Lappin Park for holiday carols and the annual tree lighting. This magical evening is free, family-friendly, and takes place rain or shine!

Tis the Season: Charlotte’s Christmas | 11/27 & 11/28
Celebrate the holidays with History Alive! Travel back to 19th-century Salem and discover the Christmas traditions of the era through the story of Charlotte Forten, a Black abolitionist, educator, and poet. This engaging historical performance offers a unique look at Salem’s past and the spirit of the season.

Small Business Saturday | 11/28
Shop small, celebrate Salem, and kick off the holiday shopping season! This November, Downtown Salem is the place to be for Small Business Saturday, presented by Salem Main Streets. Explore independent boutiques, discover unique gifts, browse locally made treasures, and enjoy a day of shopping and dining while supporting the businesses that make Salem special.

Salem Arts’ Annual Holiday Market | 11/28
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at Salem’s historic Old Town Hall! The Salem Arts Association brings together talented local artists offering handmade jewelry, original artwork, ceramics, ornaments, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Enjoy live music and support local artists while checking off your holiday shopping list!

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Photo Credit – Jess Shada / @destsalem

All aboard for a holiday tradition 40 years in the making! The Salem Trolley and Gallows Hill Theatre bring Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to life with a humorous, whimsical, and interactive twist. Ride along with Scrooge through Salem as this beloved Christmas tale unfolds! It’s a festive experience for your holiday visit, but seats are limited and shows sell out quickly, so be sure to book your tickets early. Performances depart from Timeless Life Treasures. Show runs from November 28th – December 23rd.

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