Salem's Winter Wonderland: Keeping the Magic Alive Post-Halloween

Salem, a city known for its spooky season, is not ready to dim the lights just yet. With Halloween crowds thinning out, local groups are stepping up to keep the downtown area buzzing through the winter. Creative Collective and Salem Main Streets have teamed up to launch "Holiday Happenings, " a plan to support local businesses and attract visitors even after the Halloween rush. The idea is simple: make downtown Salem as inviting in winter as it is in October. They're planning to deck the streets with wreaths, ribbons, and lights, and even set up a website to guide visitors. This isn't just about looks; it's about giving local shops a much-needed boost during the slower winter months. Local business owners have been asking for this kind of teamwork for a while. With money tight and customers spending less, they need all the help they can get. John Andrews, who started Creative Collective, puts it bluntly: "Businesses can't afford to slow down after October. " The "Holiday Happenings" events are designed to keep people coming and spending. Some of the big events include Santa's grand arrival on November 28, a holiday tree lighting, and a weekend dedicated to small businesses on November 29. There's also a window decorating contest starting December 6 and a festive "Wassail Weekend" in mid-December. The goal? To show that Salem is a year-round destination, not just a Halloween hotspot. Kylie Sullivan, who runs Salem Main Streets, is happy about the partnership. She says it's a smart way to support local shops while making the holidays in Salem something special. And it's not just about the money—it's about building a stronger community. Liz Frazier, who owns Witch City Wicks, says these events help businesses feel more connected. Mayor Dominick Pangallo agrees. He sees "Holiday Happenings" as a way to help local shops during tough times while keeping Salem's holiday spirit alive. It's a win-win: businesses get the support they need, and visitors get a festive experience they won't forget.