29th Annual Haunted Happenings Grand Parade
Spectators gather along downtown streets to watch a vibrant procession filled with color, pageantry, music, floats, and costumes. The parade features thousands of local students from kindergarten to college marching alongside area businesses celebrating an Old-School Halloween theme. The route travels through downtown Salem and along the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall before concluding at Salem Common.
Thu, Oct 1, 2026
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
Parade starts promptly at 6:30 PM; marchers and floats should arrive no later than 5:30 PM.
Neighborhood
Downtown Salem
Parking
Attendees can park in the front parking areas of Shetland Park. Parking is not allowed in the back of Shetland Park, near the water, where the parade lines up. Marchers and floats will receive designated parking areas on the maps sent around September 24.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Spectators are required to remain behind the safety barriers lining the parade route at all times.
- Attendees can park in the front parking areas of Shetland Park; parking is prohibited in the back near the water where the parade staging occurs.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year's parade theme is “Old-School Halloween,” celebrating Salem400+.
Links & Contact
Run by Salem Chamber of Commerce
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
What is the theme for the parade?
The theme is “Old-School Halloween,” highlighting the evolution of Halloween from ancient Samhain traditions and classic trick-or-treating to homemade costumes and '90s Halloween movies.
Who marches in the parade?
The parade features thousands of Salem students from kindergarten through college, along with local businesses, floats, and community groups.
What rules must spectators follow along the route?
Spectators must stay behind the safety barriers that line the entire parade route at all times.
Where can attendees park?
Attendees may park in the front parking lots of Shetland Park, but no parking is permitted in the back area near the water where the lineup takes place.
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.