Salem’s Final Holiday Week: Dec 20-31 Events & New Year
As December draws to a close, Salem’s holiday season reaches its spectacular finale with a week packed with live performances, hands-on workshops, festive tours, and culminating in Salem Main Streets’ family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration, LAUNCH! Whether you’re a local looking for last-minute holiday activities or a visitor extending your seasonal stay, Salem’s final holiday week offers something magical for everyone.
Ring in 2026 with LAUNCH!
Salem Main Streets and the City of Salem present LAUNCH!, a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration designed to bring the community together before the clock strikes midnight. Taking place on December 31st from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Artists’ Row (24 New Derby Street, across from Old Town Hall in Derby Square), this FREE community event offers the perfect way for families to celebrate the arrival of 2026.
LAUNCH! features an early countdown just before 6:00 PM—ideal for young children and families who want to celebrate without staying up until midnight. The event transforms Artists’ Row, Salem’s beloved seasonal marketplace and public plaza, into a vibrant celebration space with art-making activities, magic shows, face painting, temporary tattoos, and a silent disco. This inclusive, all-ages event embodies Salem Main Streets’ commitment to creating accessible community celebrations that bring residents and visitors together.
Artists’ Row, originally built as a marketplace, provides the perfect setting for this downtown gathering. Located in the heart of historic Salem, the venue offers easy access for families throughout the city and beyond. The event’s early timing means families can celebrate together, then either head home for a cozy evening or continue their New Year’s Eve festivities elsewhere.
December 20-21: Music, Magic & Holiday Tours
A Holiday Homecoming with Jon Butcher & Diane Blue
Saturday, December 20 at 8:00 PM | Off Cabot, 9 Wallis St, Beverly
Two-time Grammy nominee Jon Butcher returns to the North Shore for an intimate hometown holiday performance at Off Cabot. This exclusive acoustic/electric show showcases Butcher’s signature blend of soulful songwriting, masterful guitar work, and captivating stage presence developed over a remarkable career spanning decades, more than 15 albums, and countless TV and film credits.
Joining Butcher is the incomparable Diane Blue—celebrated internationally for her commanding vocals, fiery harmonica playing, and irresistible energy. Blue brings classic R&B, blues, and soul to life like few others can. When these two powerhouse performers first shared a stage last year, their chemistry was undeniable. This one-night-only holiday performance promises an unforgettable evening of music, celebration, and community spirit in Off Cabot’s intimate 150-seat theater.
Tickets are available at thecabot.org. This show offers the perfect date night or special occasion outing for music lovers who appreciate authentic artistry and masterful musicianship.
The Twisted Christmas Tour: Salem’s Untold Holiday History
Friday & Saturday evenings in December | Downtown Salem
Salem Night Tour presents The Twisted Christmas Tour on Friday and Saturday nights throughout December, including December 20, 26, and 27. This hour-long guided walking tour uncovers Salem’s darker side of the holidays with spine-tingling tales of Yuletide mischief, ghostly legends, and Victorian fright.
Back for its third year, the tour explores illicit holiday gatherings traced back to Europe’s earliest celebrations, the unforeseen consequences of mischievous Christmas caroling in Salem’s historic streets, and Victorian Christmas ghost stories that will chill you to the bone. Meticulously researched by resident expert Theresa, this unique exploration of wintertime traditions throughout the ages has become a quintessential seasonal staple in Salem.
Bundle up, bring a hot chocolate from one of Salem’s local cafes, and discover good, old-fashioned ghost stories perfectly blended with historical fact. Tours depart from designated downtown locations—visit salemghosttours.com for tickets and departure details. Perfect for horror fans, ghost hunters, and “dark academic” history buffs seeking something different from traditional holiday fare.
Sunday, December 21: Multiple Holiday Experiences
Christmas at The Gables
Various times throughout December | House of the Seven Gables, 115 Derby Street
Step inside the 1668 mansion and experience Christmas through the centuries at The House of the Seven Gables. These seasonal tours explore 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.
The historic mansion appears lavishly decorated for the season, creating an immersive festive experience that spans generations. Tours provide fascinating insights into how Salem’s maritime families celebrated the holidays, the cultural traditions that shaped New England Christmas customs, and the architectural details that make this National Historic Landmark District extraordinary.
Tickets are $30 for Gables members and $35 for the general public. Tours run throughout December during regular operating hours. Visit 7gables.org for schedules and reservations. The experience offers both historical education and holiday inspiration, making it perfect for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to understand New England’s Christmas traditions.
Holiday Glass Workshops
Multiple locations and times
Salem’s North Shore Glass School offers several hands-on glass ornament and decoration workshops during the final holiday week:
- Blow Your Own Glass Ornament – Create a unique hand-blown glass ornament at the Proctor Street studio (16 Proctor St, Unit C)
- Holiday Ornament & Magnet Workshop – Fused glass workshop at the Black Box Theater featuring holiday designs
- Create-Your-Own Holiday Ornament & Coaster – Design colorful glass pieces using festive textures
These workshops accommodate all skill levels, with expert instructors guiding participants through each step. Finished pieces are typically ready for pickup within a few days after fusing. Perfect for creating meaningful handmade gifts or special keepsakes from your Salem holiday visit. Pre-registration required—visit northshoreglassschool.com for schedules and booking.
Brunch with Santa at Trade House
Sunday mornings in December | Trade House, 156 Derby Street
Trade House on Derby Street has fully transformed for the season with festive décor, twinkling lights, towering wreaths, and over 1,000 ornaments creating a magical holiday atmosphere. Their Brunch with Santa events on December 21 (and earlier December Sundays) offer families the chance to enjoy quality brunch fare while children meet Santa in this cozy neighborhood gathering place.
The restaurant’s holiday menu features hearty American comfort favorites alongside globally inspired dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The prime waterfront location—steps from Salem Maritime National Historic Site and Pickering Wharf—makes it easy to combine brunch with other downtown activities.
Reservations recommended. Visit tradehousesalem.com or call ahead to secure your spot for this festive family tradition.
December 26-27: Post-Christmas Celebration Continues
The holiday spirit doesn’t end on December 25th! Salem keeps the festivities going through the final week of the year.
The Twisted Christmas Tour
Continues Friday and Saturday evenings (December 26-27) with Salem’s unique blend of holiday history and ghostly tales. After the rush of Christmas, these atmospheric evening tours provide the perfect way to decompress while learning fascinating stories about Salem’s past.
Solstice Light Up The Night
December 21, 26, and 28 | Witch Pix, 172 Essex Street
Illuminate the darkness with a special solstice portrait session at Witch Pix, Salem’s award-winning costume photo studio. This seasonal experience features the Olde Salem Village and Witch Cottage sets beautifully decorated with lush evergreen, creating an enchanted winter atmosphere perfect for capturing meaningful year-end portraits.
Participants dress in witch and wizard costumes from Witch Pix’s extensive wardrobe collection and take part in a candlelit ceremony, writing positive intentions for the New Year as part of their photo session. The combination of professional photography, theatrical sets, and intentional ritual creates a unique way to honor the winter solstice and set intentions for 2026.
Witch Pix has been a beloved Salem destination since 2003, offering guided photo experiences with 400+ costumes, expert stylists, and professional photographers. The Solstice sessions provide a more contemplative, spiritual twist on their signature witch-themed shoots. Pre-booking recommended—visit witchpix.com for scheduling and pricing.
December 28-29: Weekend Before New Year’s
Ghosts of Christmas Past: A Haunted Holiday Stroll
Through December 28 | Witch City Walking Tours, 32 Derby Square
Step into Salem’s haunted holiday history with this captivating 2-hour walking tour presented by Witch City Walking Tours. This isn’t your typical holiday tour or standard ghost walk—it’s a masterful blend of both, featuring Victorian ghost stories, ancient Yuletide traditions, and Salem’s fascinating relationship with Christmas.
Professional guides share untold stories of how Christmas was once banned in Puritan Salem, explore ancient Pagan winter solstice customs, and introduce visitors to haunting holiday figures like Krampus, Frau Perchten “the Christmas Witch,” and the mysterious Mari Lwyd tradition from Wales. The tour visits Salem’s most atmospheric historic sites including Old Town Hall, the Witch House, Ropes Mansion, and Hamilton Hall.
Each guest receives complimentary hot apple cider and hand warmers. This accessible, all-ages experience welcomes strollers and wheelchairs, making it perfect for multi-generational holiday outings. Tours run rain or shine through December 28—visit witchcitywalkingtours.com to book
Kids Vacation Photo Ops & WICKED Photoshoot
December 28 | Witch Pix, 172 Essex Street
Witch Pix offers two special vacation week photo experiences perfect for families:
Kids Vacation Photo Op – A kid-only witchy portrait session where young visitors choose from four signature styles: Graveyard Magic, Crystal Ball Witchery, 1692 Glamour, or Earth Witch. Children step into character with simple costume pieces for a quick, imaginative Salem experience that blends creativity, history, and play.
WICKED Photoshoot – This gravity-defying experience includes a mini costumed photoshoot with iconic Elphaba poses, complete with hat, broom, cape, and spellbook. Inspired by both the Broadway musical and the movies, this can be added onto any photoshoot session—perfect for theater fans looking to defy gravity during their Salem visit.
Both experiences available by appointment—visit witchpix.com to book your session.
December 30-31: New Year’s Eve Countdown
Brian Regan Live at The Cabot
December 31 at 6:00 PM | The Cabot, 286 Cabot St, Beverly
Ring in 2026 with one of America’s most beloved comedians! Brian Regan brings his clean, high-energy stand-up comedy to The Cabot for a New Year’s Eve show that the whole family can enjoy. Known as a “comedian’s comedian,” Regan has distinguished himself through his perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, creating comedy gold from everyday situations.
With 28 appearances on The Late Show with David Letterman (more than any other comedian), his own Netflix series “Stand Up And Away! With Brian Regan,” and sold-out performances at venues ranging from Radio City Music Hall to Red Rocks Amphitheater, Regan has built a remarkable career on smart observations and sarcastic humor that audiences of all ages appreciate.
Doors open at 5:00 PM, show starts at 6:00 PM. Tickets range from $68.50 to $99.00 and are available at thecabot.org. Multiple New Year’s Eve showcases are also scheduled at The Cabot throughout the evening for those seeking different entertainment options.
North Shore Glass School Holiday Workshops
December 30-31 | Multiple sessions
Final opportunities to create hand-crafted glass ornaments and decorations before the New Year. These last-minute workshops offer the perfect way to commemorate 2025 or create a meaningful handmade gift. Sessions fill quickly during the final holiday week, so advance registration is essential.
Wellness & Self-Care Shopping
Several Salem businesses offer special holiday promotions through December 31:
- Body & Soul Massage – Gift certificates for therapeutic massage and wellness services, perfect for New Year’s resolutions focused on self-care
- Laura Lanes Skin Care – Holiday skincare shopping event with special promotions on professional esthetic services and products
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Salem
Salem sits just 16 miles north of Boston and is easily accessible via:
- Commuter Rail: MBTA Commuter Rail from Boston’s North Station (30-35 minutes)
- Driving: Route 1A north from Boston, or I-95 to Route 128 to Route 114
- Walking/Biking: Salem’s compact downtown makes it easy to explore on foot once you arrive
Parking for Events
- Artists’ Row (LAUNCH!): Several municipal parking lots within 2-3 blocks, including South Harbor Garage and Church Street Lot
- Downtown Salem: Museum Place Garage offers convenient all-day parking
- Street parking: Free after 8 PM and on Sundays in most downtown areas
Where to Stay
Extend your holiday celebration with an overnight stay at one of Salem’s historic hotels:
- The Hotel Salem – Boutique hotel in the heart of downtown
- Hawthorne Hotel – Historic hotel on Salem Common
- Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites – Waterfront location with harbor views
Making It a Full Holiday Experience
Combine your event attendance with:
- Holiday shopping – Downtown Salem’s independent boutiques and gift shops remain open through December
- Festive dining – Numerous restaurants offer seasonal menus and cozy atmospheres
- Museum visits – Peabody Essex Museum and Salem’s historic house museums maintain special hours
- Walking tours – Self-guided historic district walks showcase Salem’s architectural beauty
Why Salem’s Final Holiday Week Matters
While many destinations wind down after Christmas, Salem recognizes that the period between Christmas and New Year’s offers exceptional opportunities for community celebration and visitor experiences. Families have time off from school and work, visitors extend their holiday stays, and the city maintains its festive atmosphere right through to January 1st.
Salem Main Street’s commitment to producing quality community events like LAUNCH! Demonstrates the organization’s understanding that the holiday season extends beyond December 25th. By creating accessible, free programming alongside ticketed performances and workshops, Salem ensures everyone can participate in ringing in the New Year, regardless of financial circumstances.
The variety of programming—from intimate acoustic performances to hands-on crafts, from ghostly tours to family celebrations—reflects Salem’s diverse community and its visitors’ wide-ranging interests. Whether you’re drawn to live music, historical education, artistic creation, or simple community gathering, Salem’s final holiday week delivers memorable experiences.
Supporting Salem’s Holiday Initiative
Holiday Happenings is supported by Website Sponsors Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry and Witch City Walking Tours, along with Social Media Sponsors Salem Wax/The Lost Library and Salem Night Tour/Wynott’s Wands. The initiative is co-organized by Creative Collective and Salem Main Streets, in partnership with Destination Salem and the City of Salem.
These sponsors and partners make comprehensive holiday programming possible, ensuring Salem maintains vibrant community celebrations from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Their support enables free events like LAUNCH! while also helping promote ticketed performances, workshops, and tours that contribute to Salem’s cultural vitality.
When you attend Holiday Happenings events, shop at participating businesses, or share your Salem experiences on social media, you’re supporting this collaborative effort to make Salem’s holiday season memorable for residents and visitors alike.
Your Countdown to 2026 Starts Now
Salem’s final holiday week offers the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, community and culture, education and entertainment. From Jon Butcher’s soulful holiday homecoming to LAUNCH!’s family-friendly New Year’s celebration, from hand-blown glass ornaments to Victorian ghost stories, these eleven days provide countless opportunities to create meaningful memories before 2025 becomes history.
Mark your calendars, book your tickets, make your reservations, and join Salem in counting down to 2026. Whether you choose one event or fill your entire week with holiday activities, you’ll discover why Salem’s celebration of the season extends all the way to midnight on December 31st—and why the final holiday week might just be the best week of all.
Happy Holidays, and we’ll see you in 2026!