While Salem is scary in October and sentimental in December, it is So Sweet in February. This is our way of reminding you that tickets are now on sale— and will, as tradition has it, sell out quickly— for the annual Salem’s So Sweet Chocolate and Ice Sculpture Festival.

The festival is organized in partnership between Salem Main Streets, the Salem Chamber of Commerce, and Destination Salem.  This year’s dates are Feb. 6-15 and will include ice sculptures around town, in-store promotions by retailers and restaurants in our downtown district, a Golden Ticket Raffle, and more. But of course the highlight is the kick off event, Friday Feb. 6^th from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Colonial Hall at Rockafellas. It features a luscious tasting event: wine and chocolate samplings from premier Salem restaurants, stores, and sweet shops.

We are talking about everything from chocolate mousse to donuts to chocolate spaghetti, with truffles of all sizes, plus a variety of wines and other alcoholic treats that go with just about every type of chocolate.

“On the one hand, it amazes me how passionate people are about this event – people have been asking about tickets since November!” says Kylie Sullivan, manager of Salem Main Streets.  “But on the other hand, it’s not hard to see why.  We truly have an incredible food and restaurant scene here in Salem, and it shines through at an event like this.”

Do something special for your your special Valentine this year!  Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased over the phone at 978-744-0004, online here, or in person at the Salem Chamber of Commerce, 265 Essex Street, Suite 101.

It’s hard to believe, but the final Salem Winter Market of the season is already here – Thursday, Dec. 18 from 3 pm to 7 pm on Artists’ Row.  It’s your last chance to stock up on your favorite vendors until June, or take care of the rest of your holiday gift shopping.  Here’s our recommendations for the “can’t miss” items at the final market.

Freezer Fodder

• Valicenti Organico – from luxurious duck confit ravioli to gluten-free spaghetti, Valicenti’s fresh pasta freezes beautifully and cooks in minutes.
• Mandy’s Wicked Chowdah – vacuum-sealed in individual bags, Mandy’s chowder is perfect for freezing and insanely easy to prepare; instant comfort food for two in no time.
• Grant Family Farm and Long Hill Orchard – incorporate fresh produce into your favorite freezable dishes, like squash mac n’ cheese or sweet potato sausage soup.
• Stillman’s at the Turkey Farm – stock up on sausages and your favorite cut of meat for farm-raised meat all winter long.

Haul out the Holly

• Long Hill Orchard – grab a wreath or garland for the front door or brighten up the porch.
• Wolf Meadow Farm – the holidays mean parties and guests, and that means you need hors d’oeuvres.  Get a few good cheeses and your prep work just got easier.
• SalemSpice – make that special roast/side/dessert even more special with salts and spices for any dish.
• Witch City Wicks – move over, Yankee Candle.  From Clean Cotton to Blue Spruce to…Opium, Witch City Wicks’ scented candles will get your house smelling just the way you’d like before your houseguests come to stay.

Stocking Stuffers (and much more)

• Salem Soapworks – a local favorite, Kathleen’s beautiful soaps, lotions, and gift sets smell even better than they look.
• All Fruit, Inc. – Anne’s amazing combos of dried fruits and nuts are straight up addictive, and the range of options will allow you to please any palate on your list.
• Shine Jewelry – amazing beads and baubles for the jewelry lover in your life.
• Green Phoenix Threads – these one-of-a-kind jackets, scarves, and gloves will have everyone asking where they came from, and how they can get their own.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget to swing by Jodi Bee Bakes for a special dessert or a little hot chocolate.  See you at the Market!