Christmas in Salem
Visitors step inside a selection of elaborately decorated historic homes and landmarks tied to Salem's seafaring past. Centered around the waterfront Derby Street neighborhood, the annual house tour lets guests experience centuries-old architecture and holiday decor under this year's theme, Seas and Greetings.
Dec 4 – Dec 6, 2026 All ages
See more other Christmas activities near Salem
Plan Your Visit
Tickets
General admission: Member – $40; Non-Member – $45. Day-of tickets: Member & Non-Member – $50.
Food & Drink
Festive food and beverages are featured at select houses during the Friday Special Candlelight Preview.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Get Candlelight Preview tickets early, because they're limited. They also let you return on Saturday or Sunday for the remaining houses.
- Buy general admission in advance, because day-of tickets cost more, and your advance ticket still works on either Saturday or Sunday.
- Preview ticket holders get an email with the details before the Friday tour, so watch your inbox ahead of time.
- If you're a Historic Salem member, choose the member option when you buy to get the discounted rate.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for walking between the decorated houses of the Derby Street neighborhood in early December.
Special Events & Promotions
- Friday evening Candlelight Preview on December 4 tours select houses with festive food and drinks. A special, limited ticket is required.
- Preview tickets include the option to return on Saturday and/or Sunday to see the rest of the tour houses.
- New this year: the Seas and Greetings theme explores the waterfront Derby Street neighborhood.
- Historic Salem members get discounted general admission and preview tickets.
Links & Contact
Run by Historic Salem, Inc.
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's this year's theme?
This year's theme is Seas and Greetings. The tour explores the waterfront Derby Street neighborhood, once the heart of Salem's maritime trade. Its centuries-old homes and landmarks are tied to the city's seafaring past.
Can I use my ticket on either day?
Yes. General admission tickets work on Saturday or Sunday during the tour's regular hours.
Can I buy tickets on the day?
Yes. You can buy them online or on-site on Saturday and Sunday.
What is the Candlelight Preview?
It's a special tour on Friday evening, December 4, of select tour houses, with festive food and drinks. Tickets are limited. They also let you come back on Saturday and/or Sunday to see the rest of the houses.
Is it worth going if I've been before?
Yes. The tour features a different neighborhood and theme each year, and it draws both new and returning visitors, residents and out-of-towners alike.
Browse Christmas in Salem
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.