SALEM — With all its maritime history, famous attractions, and renowned restaurants, Salem is the
place to be during the summer months. In addition to the special events highlighted below, there are activities happening each day in Salem. Visitors will find plenty of things to do around town with Salem’s museums and historic sites, unique shops, walking tours, and the summer weather is perfect for outdoor tours and outdoor dining, or harbor tours such as the boat tour to Baker Island. Specialists at the Destination Salem Visitor Center are able to help people plan their activities while in Salem.
“Summer is a spectacular time to visit Salem,” said Stacia Cooper, Interim Director at Destination Salem. “We have a great business community that knows exactly what visitors and residents are looking for, and constantly offers new creative and fun activities.”
Below are some events worth checking out:
Salem Celebrates the 4th!
Tuesday, July 4, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Salem Maritime Historic Site on Derby Wharf
Bring your beach blankets and folding chairs to enjoy the 42-piece Hillyer Festival Orchestra on Derby Wharf at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site for a grand celebration of our nation’s Independence Day. Featuring a Pops concert, a Kid Space play area, and fireworks launched over Salem Harbor, this is a quintessential celebration of the 4th of July. www.Salem.com
North Shore Concert Band Series at Salem Willows Park
Tuesdays, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., from July 11th – August 15th
Salem Willows Park
The North Shore Concert Band will perform its annual Summer Series of free outdoor concerts at the Robert Hayes Bandshell at Salem Willows Park beginning Tuesday, July 11th, and continuing every Tuesday through August 17th. A variety of programs will be performed which will include patriotic, Broadway, big band, classical, and Disney, as well as feature soloists.
283rd Negro Election Day Celebration
Saturday, July 15th, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Salem Willows Park
Come on down to Salem Willows Park for the 283rd Negro Election Day State Holiday Festival hosted by Salem United, Inc! Entry to the festival is free. The Parade will begin at 12:00 pm. at Shetland Park, and continue down Derby Street past the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Enjoy face painting, BBQ, live music, and much more during a day filled with community and celebration.
Yin Yu Tang: A Chinese Home 20th Anniversary Festival
Saturday, July 15th, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Peabody Essex Museum
Join the Peabody Essex Museum for a special day celebrating the 20th anniversary of the cultural exchange project that brought Yin Yu Tang: A Chinese Home to PEM! Festivities will include talks with experts and special guests, guided tours of the home, drop-in art-making, live music, and a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine.
Salem Heritage Days
Monday, August 7 through Sunday, August 13
Different locations
Celebrate the past and the present during the annual Salem Heritage Days. Featuring food, fun, and activities for all ages, highlights include National Night Out, Ice Cream Bowl, live music, outdoor films, and more. www.Salem.com
Salem Jazz and Soul Festival
Saturday, August 19, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Salem Willows
The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival has always been about bringing great music to the people of Salem. This event includes a beer garden, curated vendors fair, educational clinics in the education tent, and of course, incredible performers. More information can be found at: www.salemjazzsoul.org.
Merry-Time Fest
Saturday, August 19, 2023, noon to 7 p.m.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site on Derby Street
This year, the Salem Merry-time Fest will feature a wide range of entertainment, including musicians, magic, visiting vessels, and hands-on activities. This year’s event will also introduce the first “Great Salem Maritime Cardboard Boat Regatta.” Teams of two will test their ingenuity by building homemade cardboard boats that will launch from Derby Beach. Boat registration is required; all rules are on the park website. This event is free and open to the public. FMI https://www.salem.org/
For additional information on things to do, where to eat, and accommodations, please visit Destination Salem at Salem.org.
