Residents are invited to rank their favorite Ladies of Salem figureheads before voting closes on July 12
SALEM, MA – The City of Salem’s Beautification Committee is inviting residents and visitors to help select which of Salem’s beloved “Ladies of Salem” figureheads will be featured on the committee’s float during the Salem Heritage Days Parade celebrating Salem’s 400+ Anniversary.
The Ladies of Salem are distinctive decorative figureheads displayed throughout Downtown Salem and Pickering Wharf. Over the years, these iconic figures have become a recognizable part of the city’s streetscape, each showcasing a unique theme that reflects Salem’s rich history, culture, and maritime heritage.
As part of the Salem Heritage Days Parade, the Beautification Committee will feature six of these figureheads on its parade float. Community members are encouraged to participate by reviewing the featured Ladies and casting their votes through a ranked-choice ballot.
Voting is open now and will close on Saturday, July 12, 2026. The six figureheads receiving the highest rankings will be selected to appear on the float during the parade.
“We are excited to showcase one of Salem’s most recognizable public art features as part of the city’s 400+ Anniversary celebration,” said the Beautification Committee, “This is a fun opportunity for the community to help choose which Ladies of Salem will represent our city in this year’s parade.”
Residents can participate by completing the online voting form available through the City of Salem’s 400+ Website and on the City of Salem’s Beautification Committee Page.
About the Beautification Committee
The Salem Beautification Committee works to enhance and promote the beauty of Salem’s public spaces through landscaping, gardening, public art, seasonal decorations, and community improvement initiatives. The committee helps oversee many of the visual elements that contribute to Salem’s unique character, including the Holiday Tree Topper, garden beds across Salem, and the Ladies of Salem figureheads located throughout downtown and along the waterfront. Interested in joining the committee or volunteering in our gardens and traffic islands? Reach out to Michael Corley, Mayor’s Office at mcorley@salem.com.
