Start October with a little waterfront magic. On Thursday, October 1, 2026, noon–9 PM Eastern, Charlotte Forten Park becomes a gathering place for music, playful activities, local makers and something good to eat as Salem celebrates Haunted Happenings parade day. Find us at 289 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970, and make the park part of your opening-day adventure.

The Witches Are Back!

Sarah, Mary and Winifred Sanderson return once more—no black flame candle needed! The magic and power of music is all this trio needs. Join the Sanderson Sisters of Rock Cauldron Cabaret to sing, laugh and dance until you die!

The first performance runs from 6:30 to approximately 6:45 PM. A later set is planned, with its timing decided as the evening unfolds. Bring your best cackle and make room for a little musical mischief.

Your October 1 lineup

• Noon–9 PM: Explore the special opening-day Marketplace and its participating makers and activities.
• 4–9 PM: The Cannery at Forten serves drinks at its outdoor bar.
• 5:30–8:30 PM: DJ Kim Collins is part of the evening music lineup, alongside the scheduled cabaret performances.
• 6:30–approximately 6:45 PM: Rock Cauldron Cabaret presents the first performance of The Witches Are Back!

Make, play, browse and strike a pose

This special kickoff brings ten confirmed participants together at Forten. Try something playful, meet local creatives and discover a Halloween-season keepsake:

• Slime Time Studios: Stop by the Slime Bar.
• 360 Fiesta Photo Booth: Capture an opening-day memory—free to guests on October 1.
• Face Paint Fantasy: Add a little color with face painting.
• Tiny Wonders Co.: Discover potion kits for imaginative fun.
• The Whole Knit and Kaboodle: Browse kid-friendly offerings.
• RexWraps: Explore rocks, gems, handmade wire-wrapped jewelry and stone bracelets.
• 3Dazzle Creations: Browse 3D-printed creations inspired by pop culture and play.

Salem Game Guild, Real Pirates and Sandmagination round out the confirmed kickoff participants. Salem Game Guild will be set up by 2 PM. Specific offerings may vary; check with each participant for activity details and prices.

Come hungry. Stay for the music.

Pick up handmade empanadas from Empanada Kingdom and treat yourself to locally made ice cream from Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe. The Cannery at Forten adds an outdoor bar to the waterfront, working with local breweries and spirits companies. Bar service runs 4–9 PM; food menus and individual service hours may vary.

Plan your visit

Admission to the park activation is free. Food, drinks, shopping and activities may involve separate purchases; the 360 Fiesta Photo Booth is free to guests for this kickoff. Public hours are noon–9 PM, with performance and bar hours listed above.

Find more to explore in the Charlotte Forten Park guide, check the events calendar for programming updates, and visit the visitor FAQ to plan your Salem trip.

Part of Creative Collective’s Haunted Happenings Marketplace.