Christmas is a time for giving, a time when Salem shares with visitors & the community-at-large the gift of a very special holiday house tour that, much like the gift that keeps on giving, is much more than a house tour.
Christmas in Salem, thought to be the nation’s longest running holiday house tour, invites visitors to tour not one, not two, but 12 homes spanning a variety of histories and architectural styles in Salem’s historic McIntire District from December 4 – 6. These homes, beautifully decorated for the holiday season, are inspired by a 12 Days of Christmas theme.
Now in its 36th year, Christmas in Salem, produced by Historic Salem Inc., is a wonderful opportunity to visit one of the region’s most storied cities. Tour goers are encouraged to enjoy everything the city has to offer, including local restaurants and shops during the holiday season.
Additionally, a complimentary trolley takes visitors from downtown parking locations to the tour route, providing historical information and a festive ride that will get everyone into the holiday spirit.
The Preview Candlelight Tour (for advance ticket holders only) will be held on Friday, December 4th from 5:30 – 8:30pm and will feature selected homes. On Saturday, December 5th from 10:30am – 4:30pm and Sunday, December 6th from 11:30am – 4:30pm, all sites will be open for tours.
Prices are $25 each for Historic Salem, Inc. members and $30 each for the general public. Tickets may be purchased in advance by visiting ChristmasinSalem.org or by calling Historic Salem, Inc. at 978-745-0799. Deadline for advance ticket sales is December 2nd at 5pm.
Tickets for the house tours can also be purchased at First Unitarian Church of Salem at 316 Essex Street, on December 5th and 6th for $35 each.
There are a couple of requests to take note of:
- Out of courtesy to homeowners and their historic floors, please do not wear high heels.
- Please do not bring children younger than six unless carried in a Snugli.
- Food and drink are not allowed in any of the homes.
- Photography of any kind is not permitted without express, written consent of Historic Salem, Inc.
Christmas in Salem is presented by Historic Salem, Inc. an advocacy group dedicated to preserving Salem’s historic resources and educating the community to their value. The historic house tour and other fundraising efforts of Historic Salem, Inc. are the primary source of funds for the restoration of the National Historic Landmark, the Nathaniel Bowditch House.
