The Salem Chamber of Commerce introduced Haunted Happenings in 1982 as a weekend-long Halloween celebration with events throughout the city. The weekend included a Horribles Parade, with costumes judged by Laurie Cabot, and a witches brew contest at Victoria Station. Coinciding with Haunted Happenings, The Essex Institute hosted an exhibit “Salem Witches, Documents of an Early American Drama”, which focused on the Salem Witch Trials.
The first year was a success, attracting approximately 50,0000 people. The series continued to gain momentum each year, adding new attractions and partnering with more businesses and organizations across the city. In the 1990s, Haunted Happenings marketing was increased with hope that Salem’s tourism could expand into fall, a usually quiet time in the waterfront community. By the end of the decade, Haunted Happenings had grown from a weekend celebration to a ten-day observance.
In 1992, the tercentenary of the Salem Witch Trials brought an international spotlight to the city with the dedication of the Salem Witch Trials Memorial. News coverage created a renewed interest in Salem’s history and attractions.
The first Halloween parade was held in 1995, beginning modestly with costumed school children. The addition of a parade signified the city’s transition to featuring family-friendly Halloween events and activities. The parade now acts as the official kick-off of October's festivities.
In 2007, the grand fireworks finale was added to mark the end of the month long celebration. Haunted Happenings now draws more than 900,000 people annually to Salem.
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Digitized Archives
Witch City
Haunted Happenings Brochure, 1982
Haunted Happenings Brochure, 1985
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