Experience the magic of Christmas in Salem, a beloved historic house tour showcasing elaborately decorated homes throughout Salem, Massachusetts. Held annually on the first weekend of December, this 46th annual tour invites visitors into stunning historic houses spanning four centuries of Salem’s architectural heritage. Each year features a different neighborhood and theme, offering both returning guests and first-time visitors a unique glimpse into Salem’s residential history adorned in full holiday splendor. The 2025 Christmas in Salem house tour will take place from December 5 to 7, with a special candlelight preview on Friday evening and general admission tours available throughout the weekend. Thousands of visitors from across New England and beyond explore these homes each year, making it one of Salem’s premier holiday traditions. Whether you’re a resident or planning a holiday visit to Salem, MA, this tour offers an unforgettable way to celebrate the season while supporting historic preservation.

About the Christmas in Salem House Tour

Christmas in Salem transforms historic homes in Salem into festive showcases of holiday decorating and architectural beauty. Organized by Historic Salem, Inc., this annual event marks the beginning of the holiday season while raising funds to preserve Salem’s historic resources and maintain the Nathaniel Bowditch House, a National Historic Landmark.

Each tour features carefully selected homes from a specific Salem neighborhood, allowing visitors to discover different parts of the city year after year. Homeowners open their doors and share the stories of their historic properties while showcasing creative holiday decorations that honor both traditional celebrations and Salem’s unique character.

The tour offers an intimate glimpse into Salem’s residential architecture, ranging from colonial-era homes to Victorian mansions, while supporting the preservation efforts that maintain Salem’s historic identity for future generations.

Tour Dates & Times 2025

Friday, December 5, 2025 Special Candlelight Preview Tour (Limited Tickets)

• Exclusive evening experience with select tour houses
• Features festive food and beverages
• Preview ticket holders receive detailed event information via email in advance
• Includes option to return Saturday and/or Sunday to view remaining houses

Saturday, December 6, 2025 General Admission: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Sunday, December 7, 2025 General Admission: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Tours are self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace throughout the day. Plan 2-3 hours to fully experience the homes on the tour.

Ticket Options & Pricing

Special Preview Tour Tickets (Friday Evening)

The exclusive Friday candlelight preview offers an enhanced tour experience with festive refreshments. Preview tickets include admission to Friday’s special event plus the option to return during regular hours on Saturday or Sunday to see any remaining tour houses.

• Historic Salem, Inc. Members: $100
• Non-Members: $120

Preview tickets are limited and typically sell out in advance. This premium experience is perfect for those seeking a more intimate tour atmosphere.

General Admission Tickets (Saturday or Sunday)

General admission tickets provide access to all tour homes during regular weekend hours. Purchase in advance for the best value.

• Historic Salem, Inc. Members: $40
• Non-Members: $45

Weekend tickets can be used on either Saturday or Sunday during posted tour hours.

Day-of Tickets

Tickets available for purchase on-site Saturday and Sunday, subject to availability.

• All Guests: $50

Advance purchase recommended to guarantee admission and save $5 per ticket.

Plan Your Christmas in Salem Visit

What to Expect on the Tour

Each home on the Christmas in Salem tour offers a unique experience:

• Historic Architecture: Explore homes spanning colonial, Federal, and Victorian periods
• Holiday Decorations: See creative and elaborate seasonal decorating throughout each house
• Neighborhood Exploration: Discover a different Salem area each year
• Self-Guided Experience: Tour at your own pace with time to appreciate details
• Local Knowledge: Learn about Salem’s residential history and preservation efforts

Tours typically include 6-10 homes within walking distance of each other in the featured neighborhood. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.

Tour Guidelines

To ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors:

• Photography: Check individual home policies upon entry
• Children: Welcome on the tour with adult supervision
• Large Groups: Contact organizers in advance for group arrangements
• Personal Items: Large bags, umbrellas, and shopping bags should be left in vehicles when possible
• Pets: Service animals only
• Restrooms: Available at designated tour locations
• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for touring multiple homes
• Accessibility: Contact Historic Salem, Inc. in advance for specific accessibility information

Combine with Holiday Happenings

Make a full day of your Salem visit by exploring other Holiday Happenings events and downtown businesses:

• Browse holiday shopping in downtown Salem before or after your tour
• Visit participating Holiday Happenings restaurants for lunch or dinner
• Attend the Holiday Window Decorating Contest throughout downtown
• Explore Salem’s historic sites and attractions decorated for the season

About Holiday Happenings Salem

Christmas in Salem is featured in Holiday Happenings, Salem’s premier holiday shopping and events guide. This initiative brings together the best of Salem’s local businesses, holiday events, and seasonal experiences in one comprehensive platform to help residents and visitors celebrate the season in historic downtown Salem.

Holiday Happenings is presented by Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry and Witch City Walking Tours, with special thanks to our presenting sponsors who make this free community resource possible.

This initiative is co-organized by Creative Collective—Salem’s premier event production and marketing agency—and Salem Main Streets, a nonprofit dedicated to downtown revitalization. Together, we’re creating the cohesive holiday marketing platform that Salem’s business community has been asking for.

Holiday Happenings is produced in partnership with Destination Salem and the City of Salem, ensuring that locals and visitors alike can easily discover all that Salem has to offer during the most magical time of year.