Salem expecting especially large crowds for Halloween night

The sights and sounds of Halloween have been all over Salem, Massachusetts, this month, but tomorrow is the big day as the Witch City officially celebrates its 400th anniversary.

October in Salem is iconic, and it’s already been a fun month of Haunted Happenings so far. There are more spooky activities and crowds expected today, then tomorrow is the day — Halloween on a Saturday!

The City of Salem has released updated resources and a map outlining planned road closures and safety measures for Halloween night that are intended to help residents and visitors plan ahead and enjoy a safe, fun Halloween experience in Salem.

“We extend an extra special welcome to those visiting us from throughout the region and around the world this year as Salem celebrates its 400th anniversary. Visitor trends throughout October indicate that we are expecting especially large crowds for Halloween night,” Mayor Dominick Pangallo said in a statement. “We encourage everyone to plan ahead, take public transportation, respect our rules and our residents, and enjoy a safe and fun visit to Salem.”

There’s no shortage of events happening on Saturday — from slime potion brewing classes to witch hat design sessions. Plus, don’t forget the dance parties, comedy shows and eerie stories. There are stages on Salem Common, Front Street, Charlotte Forten Park, at Washington Street and Federal Street, and on Hawthorne Boulevard.

The big draw on Saturday, though, is the drone show at 10:10 p.m. over the North River. You can watch from the MBTA platform or Washington Street. The city’s public address announcement system be activated at about 10 p.m. to signal the beginning of the finale.

The city is warning people to follow the laws and avoid disorderly behavior, including drinking in public, littering and random acts of vandalism. Offenders will be penalized to the maximum amount allowed under the law both civilly and criminally, according to the city, and some violations may incur triple fines on Halloween.

The party ends after the drone show, and the city says you should expect to leave by 10:30 p.m. as police and public works departments will be clearing the streets.

The final trains leaving Salem are below, and click here to see more on the MBTA schedule.

To Boston: 11:14 pm
To Newburyport: 12:26 am
To Rockport: 11:56 p.m.

City officials are asking everyone to help them maintain a fun and safe downtown environment on Halloween. Here are their guidelines for a Happy Halloween:

Seek alternative transportation. Driving into Salem on Halloween is not advisable. There are numerous road closures on Oct. 31. If you must drive, expect delays. Take the MBTA Commuter Rail or the Salem Ferry if possible.
Avoid fines and possible tows by not parking in “Resident” zones. Arrive early, and use free satellite parking on Halloween Day.
Don’t get stuck! Entry to the MBTA garage will prohibited by the MBTA beginning at 6 pm. Access out of the garage will be prohibited until 11:30 pm (or when the festivities are over).
Review Salem’s Halloween rules. Public consumption of alcohol is prohibited and weapons will be confiscated. The party ends after the drone show. Plan to depart by 10:30 p.m.
Triple fines are in effect. Citations for illegal behavior, including public drinking, vandalism, and littering could have fines up to $300 per violation.
Please be considerate of other visitors, Salem residents, and downtown property.
Check the weather ahead of time so you don’t find yourself caught in unpredictable New England weather.
Halloween Safety
- See something, say something.
- Emergency issues: call 911.
- Nuisance issues: call the Salem Police at (978) 744-1212.
Please remember:
- Be safe, considerate, and use common sense.
- Be prepared to leave at the end of the evening. The party concludes after the drone show.
- Do not bring weapons, real or fake, to Salem on Halloween.

And for those heading out to Salem, or those going trick-or-treating, the weather looks to be clear! Temps will be in the mid-50s during the day and then drop to the 40s later in the night. Have a great time!