Salem Halloween Weekend Survival Guide: Everything You Need to Know

SALEM, MA — Halloween weekend is here. Thousands will flock to the city for celebrations throughout the weekend and spilling over into Halloween on Monday. While Patch will have all of the latest halloween-related information throughout the weekend, this post will serve as your guide to everything you need to know.

Travel

It can't be said loud enough. Do not drive in the city this weekend unless it is absolutely necessary. Essex Street from Hawthorne Boulevard to New Liberty Street will be closed to through traffic from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Police may also close other downtown streets due to crowds.

On Monday, Downtown streets will close to all traffic no later than 4 p.m.

Click here for a complete breakdown of traffic and parking impacts

The MBTA has also added extra trains to facilitate the events. You can view the added MBTA train schedule here. The final train to Boston leaves at 11:30 p.m. Monday, to Beverly on the Rockport line at 12 a.m. and to Beverly on the Newburyport line at 11:45 p.m.

The Salem Ferry runs from Boston to Salem through Monday before closing for the season.

Parking will be extremely limited in the city. We highly urge you to park at a nearby train station such as Beverly or Lynn and take the train into the city.

Things to do

There are hundreds of activities and events going on in the city this weekend and into Monday. Here are some of the highlights of the weekend. Did we miss your favorite? Let us and your fellow readers know in the comments section.

1. Derby Street Carnival: Runs all weekend from 12 to 10 p.m.
2. Halloween Weekend Kick Off Stroll, Friday, 3-5 p.m.: Salem Food Tours will be hosting its weekend kick off tours, featuring tastings of different culinary delights. Reservations are recommended
3. The Electric Ghost Electronica Festival at the Fountain Stage from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday.
4. Devils Chase Run at the Salem Willows, Saturday at 5 a.m.: A costumed 6.66 mile run.
5. Haunted Movie Series: Hocus Pocus: 6 p.m. Saturday at Salem Common
6. Salem's Wicked Hot Spice Eating Challenge: Saturday at 6 p.m. at Artist' Row.
7. Hawthorne Hotel's 26th Annual Halloween Party beginning at 7 p.m. at the Hawthorne Hotel at Washington Square.
8. Radio 92.9 Beer Garden and Stage, Monday, 2 -10 p.m.: Radio 92.9 will be hosting a beer garden at the corner of Washington St. and Federal St.
9. There will be live music at various locations throughout Downtown Salem Monday. Click here for a schedule.
10. Halloween Finale and Fireworks: 10:15 p.m. Monday, Washington Street and Bridge Street.

Police

The Salem Police Department will be increasing its presence in the city. Police announced recently that increased presence will include the use of canine teams specially trained in detecting explosives.

Police reminded residents that there is no credible threat to the area, and that it is normal for dogs to be working large events.

"Just because you see a canine team working does not mean there is a problem, we are simply being proactive and cautious," Police posted on Facebook.

If you see anything suspicious, you can text a tip to the Salem Police Department at 67283 and enter the keyword SalemTip. You can also call the Salem Police at (978)744-1212, or visit one of the orange tents located downtown.

Tips

Here are a few of the city's tips for a fun weekend in Salem. You can view the complete list here.

1. Arrive early: it is suggested that you arrive no later that 8:30 p.m.
2. Don't get stuck!: The garage at the commuter rail station will be closed to cars from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
3. Read Salem's Halloween Rules
4. Triple fines are in effect
5. Be considerate
6. Check the weather ahead of time
7. Don't be afraid to ask questions

Patch is also putting together a photo gallery of some of the best costumes worn by Salem Patch readers. Here's how to submit your photos.

Have any other questions? Let us know by emailing joe.lipovich@patch.com.

Image via Joe Lipovich, Patch Staff