29th Annual Haunted Happenings Grand Parade presented by the Salem Witch Museum, St. Jeans Credit Union, Prime Group Shetland Park & The House of the Seven Gables

The Salem Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to participate in the Haunted Happenings Grand Parade on Thursday, October 1, 2026 presented by Prime Group Shetland Park, the Salem Witch Museum, St. Jeans Credit Union, and The House of the Seven Gables. We are extremely grateful for the support of our 4 returning Presenting Sponsors - we would not be able to host this beloved community event without their support. The parade will follow the normal route from Prime Group Shetland Park to Salem Common.

 

This year’s parade will feature the theme “Old-School Halloween”! As we celebrate Salem400+ this year, we're looking back at the evolution of Halloween through the ages. From the ancient traditions of Samhain to classic trick-or-treating, homemade costumes, and even the nostalgia of '90s Halloween movies, we can't wait to see your interpretation. There's no wrong way to celebrate Halloween! Join us as we light up the night with spooky spirit and community pride!

 

This time-honored kick off of the Halloween season is full of color, pageantry, music and the enthusiasm of thousands of Salem’s students from kindergarten to college and so many of our local businesses.  Their participation is what makes this a highly successful, cherished event for our community.

 

To help ensure the success of this event, we are asking for businesses’ financial support to defray the expenses of police, safety barriers, security, advertising, and staging. All sponsorships include the opportunity to provide a float or march in the parade. In return for sponsors’ generosity, we are committed to providing the following: