Make Salem, Massachusetts Your Home — and Enjoy a Vibrant Coastal Lifestyle Year-Round!

Salem offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience. This lively coastal city is known for its rich history, diverse culture, thriving arts scene, and year-round festivals. Residents enjoy an abundance o

f specialty shops, acclaimed dining, and a welcoming community spirit. Ideally located on Boston’s North Shore, Salem provides easy access to the city and beyond — just 35 minutes to Boston’s North Station via the MBTA commuter rail, 10 minutes to Route 128, 50 minutes to Boston’s Long Wharf on the Salem Ferry, and 30 minutes to Logan International Airport. Experience the best of coastal living with all the perks of city access.

Check out RIVERWALKSALEM.COM to learn more about a new collection of luxury boutique condominiums in downtown Salem and live where you can experience all the action. Living at RIVERWALK means embracing a lifestyle that balances relaxation with adventure. Stroll along the riverfront, host gatherings in the outdoor kitchen and patio seating, or explore the vibrant events in the historic city of Salem just beyond your doorstep. With easy access to local shops, world-class museums, and gourmet dining, every day offers new opportunities for discovery. RIVERWALK provides the perfect setting to enjoy all events that Salem and the North Shore of Boston have to offer.

Events in Salem, Massachusetts

September

Discover the Magic of the Salem Literary Festival

Immerse yourself in the literary heart of Salem during the annual Salem Literary Festival, held each fall. This beloved event transforms the city into a haven for book lovers, featuring readings, writing workshops, panel discussions, and artistic expressions. Whether you're a lifelong reader or a budding writer, the festival offers something for everyone. Best of all, all programming is free of charge, supported by generous donations from the community and sponsors

Explore Salem Like Never Before at Trails & Sails

Each September, Salem comes alive with Trails & Sails, a free, 16-day event series celebrating the rich heritage of Essex County. Hosted by Essex Heritage, this annual tradition offers over 200 unique experiences across 34 communities, including guided hikes, historic tours, maritime adventures, and cultural exhibitions. In Salem, participants can embark on schooner sails aboard the FAME, delve into the city's Revolutionary War history, or explore the Salem Heritage Trail, a self-guided path connecting over 400 years of local history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or family seeking adventure, Trails & Sails provides an unforgettable way to discover the treasures of Salem and the North Shore.

Salem Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival

Salem Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

Enjoy a mouthwatering lineup of local eats and craft brews. From sizzling street food to refreshing local beers, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Bring your friends, enjoy live music, and soak up the festive vibes — it’s the ultimate celebration of flavor and fun in the heart of Salem. Come hungry, leave happy!

October

Salem Haunted Happenings

Experience the spooky side of Salem! 👻 Haunted Happenings brings the city to life with ghost tours, haunted houses, psychic readings, and themed events all month long. Perfect for thrill-seekers and Halloween lovers of all ages.

Halloween Parade

Get your costumes ready! 🎃 Salem’s Halloween Parade is a colorful, lively procession through the streets, celebrating creativity, community, and everything delightfully eerie.

November

Holiday Artists Market

Shop local and support artisans! 🎨 The Holiday Artists Market showcases handmade gifts, crafts, and unique treasures—perfect for finding that special something for the season.

Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting

Kick off the holiday season with joy and cheer! 🎄 Watch Santa arrive in style, enjoy festive performances, and light up Salem’s tree with sparkle and magic.

December

Salem Frozen Fire Festival

Witness winter magic like never before! ❄️🔥 The Frozen Fire Festival combines ice sculptures, fire performances, and family-friendly activities to light up the coldest season with warmth and wonder.

Christmas in Salem - Salem House Tour

Step back in time and into holiday charm! 🏠 Tour historic Salem homes decked out in festive decor for a magical, cozy Christmas experience.

January

Salem Comedy and Spirits Festival

Laugh and sip your way through Salem! 🍹🤣 This festival pairs top-notch comedy shows with tastings of local spirits, creating a perfect blend of humor and flavor.

February

Salem’s So Sweet - Chocolate and Ice Sculpture Festival

Indulge your sweet tooth! 🍫❄️ Sample decadent chocolates and marvel at dazzling ice sculptures while enjoying live music and festive activities for all ages.

March

Salem Film Fest

Lights, camera, Salem! 🎬 Celebrate independent cinema with screenings of thought-provoking films, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and a vibrant community of movie lovers.

April

Masquerade Ball at the Hawthorne Hotel

Experience a night of elegance and intrigue! 🕴️🎭 Dress in period costumes and masks for this lavish ball, complete with music, dancing, and unforgettable atmosphere.

May

Massachusetts Poetry Festival

Celebrate the power of words! ✍️ The Massachusetts Poetry Festival brings together poets, readers, and lovers of verse for workshops, readings, and performances across Salem.

June

North Shore Pride Festival

A colorful celebration of love and inclusivity! 🌈 Enjoy live entertainment, food, and community festivities honoring LGBTQ+ pride and equality in the heart of Salem.

Salem Arts Festival

Discover local creativity! 🎨 The Salem Arts Festival showcases visual arts, music, and performances, bringing artists and the community together in a vibrant celebration of culture.

Fiesta en la Calle

Experience Latin culture in Salem! 💃 This lively street festival features music, dance, food, and community spirit, creating a festive, family-friendly celebration of Latino heritage.

Juneteenth Jam

Celebrate freedom and culture! ✊🎶 Juneteenth Jam features music, performances, food, and educational activities honoring the history and legacy of Juneteenth.

July

Salem Celebrates the 4th!

Stars, stripes, and fireworks! 🇺🇸 Celebrate Independence Day with family-friendly festivities, live music, and a dazzling fireworks show over Salem’s historic harbor.

Salem Garden Stroll

Step into natural beauty! 🌿 The Salem Garden Stroll invites visitors to explore private and public gardens, showcasing local flora, landscaping, and seasonal blooms.

August

Salem Heritage Days

Celebrate the city’s history! 🏘️ Heritage Days features tours, exhibits, performances, and family-friendly activities highlighting Salem’s rich cultural and maritime heritage.

Salem Maritime Festival

Ahoy! ⚓ Dive into Salem’s seafaring past with historic ship displays, maritime demonstrations, music, food, and interactive activities for all ages.

Salem Jazz and Soul Festival

Groove to the rhythm! 🎷🎶 The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival brings live music, talented performers, and soulful energy to the streets and venues of Salem.

Introducing RIVERWALK Condominiums: Your Waterfront Oasis in downtown Salem

Nestled along the scenic waterfront, these single-level residences range from 1,450 to 1,575 square feet and feature 2 to 3 bedrooms, each designed to maximize natural light and breathtaking water views. With open-concept layouts, high ceilings, oversized windows, and designer-curated finishes, RIVERWALK combines elegance with comfort.

Residents enjoy a suite of amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, signature clubroom lounge, and professionally landscaped outdoor spaces with a riverfront promenade. Enjoy indoor heated parking with electric vehicle charging stations, automated climate control, and keyless entry for added convenience and security. Visit RIVERWALKSALEM.com for more info!