Ghosts of Christmas Past: A Haunted Holiday Stroll

Step into Salem’s haunted holiday history with Ghosts of Christmas Past: A Haunted Holiday Stroll, a captivating 2-hour walking tour that blends Victorian ghost stories, ancient Yuletide traditions, and Salem’s fascinating relationship with Christmas—from Puritan bans making it illegal to celebrate, to the ghostly tales once told around Victorian firesides.

Presented by Witch City Walking Tours, this all-ages experience runs nightly from November 22 through December 28, 2025, offering families and history enthusiasts alike a unique way to explore Salem’s winter magic. Each guest receives complimentary hot apple cider and hand warmers to keep cozy on your journey through 400 years of haunted holiday history.

What Makes This Tour Special

Ghosts of Christmas Past isn’t your typical holiday tour or standard ghost walk—it’s a masterful blend of both. Licensed professional guides share the 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 2-hour storytelling experience visits Salem’s most atmospheric historic sites, including Old Town Hall, the Witch House, Ropes Mansion, and Hamilton Hall—each serving as a portal to spirits and stories from Salem’s past that linger even during the holiday season. This accessible tour welcomes strollers and wheelchairs, making it perfect for multi-generational holiday outings.

Tour Details & What’s Included

Duration: 2 hours
Meeting Point: 32 Derby Square, Salem MA (Old Town Hall)
Check-In: Arrive 5 minutes early; guide will be near Old Town Hall on the side with 3 staircases facing Front Street
Group Size: Up to 40 guests
Weather: Rain or shine—tours run in all weather conditions

PLEASE CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR SPECIFIC TIMES! 

Included:

• Licensed professional guide
• Complimentary hot apple cider
• Hand warmers for chilly winter evenings

What to Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm winter clothing
• Rain gear if weather calls for it

Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible, though please note Salem’s historic 400-year-old streets include brick and cobblestone surfaces.

Tour Schedule: November 22 – December 28, 2025

Tours run on select days and times throughout the holiday season. Visit [Witch City Walking Tours](booking link) to view the complete schedule and book your preferred date and time.

Pricing:

• Adults (18-99): $37.10
• Young Adults (12-17): $32.86
• Children (6-11): $27.56
• Children 5 and Under: Free

Booking Information

Cancellation Policy: Full refund available with 24-hour advance notice. Email info@witchcitywalkingtours.com (Eastern Standard Time) for cancellations or tour time changes based on availability.

Book Your Tour: Visit Witch City Walking Tours or call (781) 608-6986

Why Choose This Holiday Experience

While Salem is famous for October festivities, the holiday season reveals a different side of the city’s rich history. Ghosts of Christmas Past offers visitors and locals alike a chance to experience Salem through the lens of winter traditions—both joyful and haunted. It’s an ideal activity for:

• Families seeking unique holiday experiences
• History enthusiasts interested in Puritan and Victorian-era customs
• Ghost story lovers looking for seasonal tales
• Visitors exploring downtown Salem during the holidays
• Anyone wanting to discover Christmas’s surprising Pagan origins

About Witch City Walking Tours

Witch City Walking Tours is a Website Sponsor of Holiday Happenings and Salem’s premier guided tour company, offering year-round historical and paranormal walking experiences. Founded by Beth Crowley, the company specializes in authentic, professionally guided tours that bring Salem’s 400-year history to life.

Connect with Witch City Walking Tours:
📍 Tours depart from 32 Derby Square
📧 info@witchcitywalkingtours.com
📱 (781) 608-6986
📷 Instagram: @witchcitywalkingtours

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/Trolley Depot and Salem Night Tour/Wynott’s Wands. Co-organized by Creative Collective and Salem Main Streets, in partnership with Destination Salem and the City of Salem.