Salem 400+ Kickoff Event

February 13, 2026

Hundreds of community members turned out on Saturday, January 10, for the Salem 400+ Launch Party at Salem High School, marking a successful kickoff to the year-long celebration leading up to Salem’s 400th anniversary in 2026. The free, all-ages event brought together residents, nonprofit organizations, and local leaders for an afternoon of connection, celebration, and winter festivities.

The launch party successfully combined indoor and outdoor activities, with attendees exploring more than 60 nonprofit organizations inside the school while enjoying fire pits and ice mosaics outside. The turnout demonstrated the community’s enthusiasm for Salem’s historic milestone and eagerness to participate in the year ahead.
“The turnout was incredible and showed just how much this community cares about Salem’s history and future,” said Virginia Cherol, Salem 400 Coordinator. “Seeing hundreds of residents come together—families, neighbors, community leaders—reinforced that Salem 400+ truly belongs to everyone. This is exactly the energy we hoped to create.”

Community Engagement Thrives Indoors
Inside Salem High School, attendees filled the halls to connect with more than 60 local nonprofit organizations. The venue provided a comfortable space for meaningful conversations about volunteer opportunities and ways to support Salem’s future. Residents of all ages engaged with organizations representing diverse interests and causes throughout the community. Every nonprofit vendor offered amazing hands-on activities that kept crowds engaged and enthusiastic, creating an interactive experience that brought the organizations’ missions to life.
Salem High School’s CTE Culinary Arts students received enthusiastic praise for their passed appetizers, charcuterie board, and other treats. The passed apps were inspired by Salem’s 400-year culinary journey. The complimentary offerings highlighted the students’ skills and gave attendees a break as they explored the nonprofit fair.
The silent auction drew steady interest throughout the afternoon, with attendees bidding on local treasures and unique experiences donated by community partners. Proceeds from the auction will support Salem 400+ programming throughout the year.

Winter Wonderland Creates Festive Atmosphere
Despite the winter weather, many attendees ventured outside to enjoy crackling fire pits while sipping complimentary hot cocoa and making s’mores. The stunning ice mosaics, making their Salem debut, proved to be a popular attraction, with families and friends gathering for photos against the picturesque frozen artwork.
The supervised kids’ activities kept young attendees engaged both indoors and outdoors, with children enthusiastically participating in age-appropriate programming and explored the nonprofit fair and connected with friends and neighbors.
In a highlight, organizers announced the name of the Salem 400+ cat mascot—Luna! Luna was even available for photos at the Kickoff!

Building Momentum for 2026

The successful launch party sets a strong foundation for Salem 400+, the year-long initiative building toward Salem’s 400th anniversary in 2026. The event brought together residents, organizations, and community leaders to honor the city’s rich history while actively shaping its shared future.
“This was just the beginning,” added Virginia Cherol. “The energy and engagement we saw on Saturday will carry us through an entire year of meaningful programming and celebration. We’re grateful to everyone who came out and made this such a special day.”