As the nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, join us for Conflict & Community: Salem, Essex County, and the American Revolution — a dynamic series of programs exploring the American Revolution — its many perspectives, lived experiences, and lasting legacies. This series brings together a range of voices and experts to examine the...
Join us in raisng Flags of Asian and Pacific Island nations to celebrate AAPI Month!
In 2026, as part of the Salem 400+ initiative, PEM will present "Salem as Muse," a series of talks that highlight works represented in PEM’s collection. These programs will explore a diverse range of subjects that connect to the unique history and character of Salem, Massachusetts. Curator-at-Large Paula Richter will give a presentation centered on...
Dedication ceremony for a new marker will take place as part of a Lafayette250 initiative honoring Lafayette's contributions to American freedom as the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Lafayette250 is the first nationwide effort celebrating the semiquincentennial of Lafayette's historic participation in the American Revolution. The event will start...
Don't miss out! Today, it's your last chance step Into Salem's Past! For this exhibit, Old Town Hall in Salem will be transformed into a living, breathing journey through four centuries of local history — and everyone is invited. History Alive, Inc. is planning a free public exhibit featuring 40 remarkable Salemites who shaped the...
Join the City on Tuesday June 2nd at 6:30pm for a virtual community forum to learn more about historic Fort Lee and to participate in ongoing efforts to plan for its future. Initially constructed in 1776 for the Revolutionary War, Fort Lee is a rare example of an earthwork fort still in its original star...
The Salem Arts Festival promotes the arts in downtown Salem through a collaborative multidisciplinary festival, highlighting the existing artist community and encouraging general community participation in the arts. The Festival runs annually through the first full weekend of June in a combination of indoor and (primarily) outdoor venues, and typically features a gallery with 40-50...
Join us when we plant an American hybrid elm behind the Benjamin Peirce/Major Gen. Stephen Abbot monument — a reference to the original elm tree in Boston under which the Sons of Liberty gathered. This new tree will also replace the original Liberty Tree planted in Salem 50 years ago. Speakers for the event will...
The annual Open House is day that all Historic New England properties are open to the public, free of charge. During Open House, guests interact with tour guides and hear the stories of the people and events that make each of our 38 properties unique. In Salem, Historic New England operates Phillips House and Gedney...
Join us when the free Swap ‘N’ Drop returns to Salem Common! This is a fun, free opportunity to swap or donate usable clothing and household items, keeping them out of the waste stream. RAIN DATE: June 13 - Please see this page for updates closer to the date SWAP or simply DROP OFF: *...
Join us on the Salem Common to watch Beep Baseball from Adaptive Sports New England! Beep baseball is an adapted version of traditional baseball, where the ball emits a beeping sound and the bases buzz, allowing players to locate them using sound. It's a thrilling way to stay active, build confidence and develop new skills...
“You can tell a lot about a community by the way they treat their dead.” On the morning of June 10th, 1692, one woman met the hangman’s noose. It was the point of no return in the Salem Witchcraft Hysteria. Her name was Bridget Bishop. Previously accused in 1680, she was the only victim not...