Illustration of a witch in a pointed hat laying out tarot cards by a crystal ball, with candles, books and pumpkins (Festival of the Dead)

Festival of the Dead

Festival of the Dead brings an extensive series of events to Salem throughout October, exploring mortality through unique traditions. Attendees can experience authentic psychic readings at the market, partake in a traditional Victorian High tea, or join a silent banquet honoring departed souls at the historic Hawthorne Hotel. The programming also features hands-on spirit communication workshops, graveyard magic seminars, a community gathering on Salem Common, and a lively Halloween celebration in the grand ballroom.

Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Ages

21+ for Halloween Ball

Neighborhood

Downtown Salem

Featured Performers

  • Patti Negri
  • Christian Day
  • Brian Cain
  • Angel Renard
  • Witchdoctor Utu
  • Dragon Ritual Drummers

Food & Drink

3-course High Tea, Dumb Supper menu including soup, entree, and dessert, hors d'oeuvres, cash bar

Going?

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (3/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (3/5)

Best For

Adults interested in the occult, history, and halloween traditions

Vibe

Mysterious, spiritual, historical, celebratory

Energy Level

Moderate to high

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Bring at least one photo of your loved one and a handwritten page for the Mourning Tea.
  • Arrive early to be among the first 100 guests at the Halloween Ball to receive a special gift bag.
  • Ensure you have proper identification since the Halloween Ball is restricted to ages 21 and older.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather since several activities involve outdoor walking.

Links & Contact

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Festival of the Dead take place?

Events run daily from October 1 to October 31 throughout Salem.

What is the Dumb Supper?

It is a solemn event where participants honor the dead with a dinner observed in utter silence in the Grand Ballroom of the historic Hawthorne Hotel.

Are all events open to all ages?

The Official Salem Witches' Halloween Ball is strictly for ages 21 and older with proper identification required.

Is there a free event available?

The Salem Witches' Magic Circle on Salem Common is free and open to all who wish to attend with an open heart.

What can I expect at the Mourning Tea?

Guests enjoy a grand Victorian High tea with traditional tea sandwiches and desserts, share stories, and place mementos into the Salem Witches' Book of the Dead.

Browse Halloween in Salem

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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