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Salem Halloween Parade 2025 โ Haunted Happenings Grand Parade Guide
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Salem Halloween Parade 2025 is the Haunted Happenings Grand Parade on October 2, 2025 at 6:30 PM.
I write this as a local fan sharing practical parade facts.
I keep paragraphs short, direct, and helpful.
Quick facts you want first
Event name: Haunted Happenings Grand Parade.
Date & time: Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 6:30 PM.
Organizer: Salem Chamber of Commerce / Haunted Happenings team.
Start to finish: Prime Group Shetland Park to Salem Common.
Attendance: Thousands expected downtown in evening crowds.
Events & Parade Overview (Table)
| Event | Date & Time | Route / Location | Duration | Entry Fee | Main Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haunted Happenings Grand Parade | Oct 2, 2025 • 6:30 PM | Prime Group Shetland Park → Salem Common | 1.5–2 hours | Free to watch | Floats, bands, performance groups. |
| Haunted Happenings Month | Oct 1–31, 2025 | Multiple venues across Salem | Ongoing | Varies by event | Markets, food courts, workshops. |
Salem Halloween Parade 2025 Exact 2025 date, time, and route details
The 2025 parade runs Thursday, October 2 at 6:30 PM.
The official route starts at Shetland Park.
The march moves toward Salem Common downtown.
Expect road closures and staged barricades along the route.
Why this parade matters
Salem’s parade kicks off Haunted Happenings season.
The parade signals October’s festival energy.
It draws locals and visitors every year.
It showcases Salem’s creative community.
History & origins in short
The parade began as part of Haunted Happenings decades ago.
The Salem Chamber formalized the Grand Parade tradition.
Organizers built it into a signature night event.
Visitors now plan trips around this parade.
Best starting points for viewing
Salem Common offers open space for family viewing.
Derby Square gives close-up parade energy.
Washington Street and the Common bandstand photograph well.
Arrive early to claim a good spot near the Common.
How to participate In Salem Halloween Parade 2025
Register through Haunted Happenings or the Salem Chamber.
Float and band entries require advance application.
Costume walkers usually register as groups or community entries.
Volunteer roles include marshals, set up, and clean up.
Organizer contact and official links
Primary organizer: Salem Chamber of Commerce / Haunted Happenings.
Official event website: hauntedhappenings.org.
Main phone: (978) 741-3252.
Main email: [email protected].
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Venue details (start, finish, and city)
Shetland Park / Prime Group is parade staging area.
Shetland Park address: 27 Congress Street, Salem, MA 01970.
Salem Common address: Washington Square / Salem Common, Salem, MA 01970.
City / State / Zip / Country: Salem, Massachusetts 01970, United States.
Viewing tips & accessibility
Arrive at least one hour before start time.
Bring warm layers for October evenings.
Use public transit for easier arrival.
Expect accessible viewing near Salem Common.
Costumes & parade themes
2025 parade theme: “Stronger Together – The Magic of Us.”
Theme encourages community and creative group entries.
Costume contests often appear across festival events.
Keep props safe and family-friendly.
Entertainment highlights
Expect large floats, bands, and performance groups.
The parade is a nighttime spectacle with lights.
Local theaters and schools often provide entries.
After-event activities continue around Salem Common.
Travel & accommodation essentials
Nearest major airport: Boston Logan International Airport.
Salem sits about 16 miles north of Boston.
Book hotels early for October weekends.
Use shuttle parking when offered at Shetland Park.
Food, markets, and local experiences
Salem Common hosts a food court during October.
Old Town Hall hosts seasonal food events.
Local restaurants offer parade-night specials.
Explore historic sites when not in parade crowds.
Safety & rules you must know
City of Salem enforces public safety measures.
Expect metal pedestrian barricades on the route.
Prohibited items include weapons and hazardous props.
Follow instructions from marshals and police.
Photography & social sharing
Golden hour and early evening light photograph best.
Use hashtags: #HauntedHappenings and #SalemParade.
Respect signs about professional gear and tripods.
Tag official accounts for reposts and event features.
FAQs
Yes. Spectating is free
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No ticket required for general viewing
Pets depend on specific venue rules. Check organizers
Closures start hours before the parade. Check local alerts.
Conclusion
The Haunted Happenings Grand Parade is Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 6:30 PM.
The route runs from Shetland Park to Salem Common.
Register early to participate and arrive early to watch.
Follow official channels for updates and safety notices
October 2 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
(978) 741-3252
info@hauntedhappenings.org
