Join us as we honor the 251th anniversary with the dedication of a new monument commemorating Leslie's Retreat. This significant addition to our community will preserve the memory of this important historical event for generations to come. The dedication ceremony will feature remarks from local historians, and community leaders. We hope you'll be part of...
The 389th Annual First Muster marks another milestone in the living legacy of America's oldest military tradition. In 1637, the East Regiment of the Massachusetts Bay Colony assembled on this very ground for the first time — an act that gave birth to what we know today as the National Guard. Salem has never stopped...
Register here! 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. Join us for the launch of "Salem...
Last Stand at Dodge follows jazz/funk band Fats Hammond, which has played at the same Salem club every Tuesday night for 13 years. But when the band suddenly loses its residency, how can the musicians and their loved ones move on? This documentary is a loving portrait of four musicians and their community. Register Here!...
Want to kick some gas? Do you want to make Salem's future greener? Come to Salem's 3rd annual Electric Vehicle Expo! See, ride, and drive plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles. Come together to find out how YOU can contribute to Salem's sustainability and resiliency in a big way! Purchasing an EV is a HUGE step...
Join us at The House of the Seven Gables with your little ones (best for ages 0 – 6) for a fun-filled hour of reading and crafts in our Kids’ Cove play area. This event is free and all materials are included, but registration is required. Register here! We will feature books and related crafts...
Gulu-Gulu Cafe will host an "Art in the Park" day where the community can participate in various types of art (drawing, collage, painting etc..) in Lappin Park! This event will engage people to take a closer look at the buildings that surround the downtown area in Lappin Park. Many people are focused on the Samantha...
Did you know Salem had the first elephant ever to set foot in America? It's true! Join us for a silly storytime of fun Salem firsts- we'll be reading books, playing games and making a craft- and enjoying a sweet treat at the end! Come learn more about some of Salem's firsts!
On April 25th, Salem's historic Derby Street waterfront transforms into a lively pirates and privateers venue. "Pirates! The Battle for Derby Street" is a swashbuckling festival packed with adventure, history, music and mischief for the pirates in all of us. At the heart of the festival is an epic and playful rivalry between two legendary...
Join us for a memorable evening of music, history, and conversation celebrating the life, military service, and lasting legacy of one of the American Revolution's most celebrated — and often overlooked — figures. The evening kicks off with a rousing performance by Scurvy Fellows Indeed, a spirited crew of 18th-century privateers who will entertain with...
Join us in raising the Polish Flag to celebrate Polish Constitution Day! We will gather at Riley Plaza for flag raising and speakers.
On May 1, 1971, Mayor Samuel Zoll proclaimed it "Hello Day." Fire station bells rang across Salem at noon. Residents poured into the streets — along Essex Street, across the Common — to do something radical in its simplicity: say hello to each other. A rock band made up of Salem High students played on...