What is the Haunted Happenings Marketplace?

The Haunted Happenings Marketplace is a curated seasonal market in downtown Salem, Massachusetts, produced by Creative Collective. It brings artists, makers, small businesses and visitors together as part of Salem's broader Haunted Happenings celebration.

What is Creative Collective?

Creative Collective is an ecosystem builder based in Salem and working across Essex County, Massachusetts. Founded in 2017, its seven-person team connects tourism, arts, small business and city hall so even the smallest business has something bigger than itself to stand with. Creative Collective produces the Marketplace and supports 350+ members across eight Essex County communities. Learn more about the team behind the Marketplace.

When is the Marketplace open in 2026?

Market hours vary by date:

• Saturdays — 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.: September 26; October 3, 10, 17 and 24
• Sundays — 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.: September 27; October 4, 11, 18 and 25; November 1
• Indigenous Peoples Day — 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.: Monday, October 12
• Halloween — 10:00 a.m.–9:45 p.m.: Saturday, October 31

Sunday, October 11 may extend to 8:00 p.m. if weather permits. See the 2026 Salem events and market calendar for daily locations and updates.

Where does the Marketplace take place?

The Marketplace takes place in downtown Salem. Market locations and daily programming can vary, so check the Events page before your visit for the most current information.

Is the Marketplace the same as the full Salem Haunted Happenings festival?

No. The Marketplace is one part of Salem's larger month-long Haunted Happenings celebration. For the broader citywide schedule, attractions and visitor information, visit Salem Haunted Happenings.

Where can I find current parking and travel information?

October traffic plans and visitor information can change throughout the season. Use the official parking and directions guide and the Destination Salem app when planning your trip.

Where are market updates posted?

Follow the Marketplace on Facebook and Instagram, and check the Events page as your visit approaches.

Where can I get visitor help and printed guides?

During Marketplace hours, stop by our team at Old Town Hall, Charlotte Forten Park, or Salem Common for the Salem Haunted Happenings Guide, Haunted Happenings Magazine, and Discovery Map of Salem.

For year-round visitor help, maps, guides, and local advice, visit the Destination Salem Visitor Information Center at 245 Derby Street or the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street. Check locations and current hours →

Where are public restrooms?

Downtown public restrooms are currently listed at Old Town Hall / Salem 400+ Welcome Center, 32 Derby Square; Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street; Salem Maritime / Central Wharf, 193 Derby Street; and South Harbor Garage, 245 Derby Street.

Hours and October facilities can change. Before you head out, check the current Salem restroom list or the Haunted Happenings restroom locator.

What accessibility resources are available?

Destination Salem's accessibility guide covers accessible parking, restrooms, attractions, and mobility information. Accessible public restrooms are available at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center and Central Wharf, and portable toilet areas include an accessible stall. See the current accessibility guide →

Are 2026 vendor applications open?

The main 2026 vendor applications for Salem Common, Derby Square, and Old Town Hall are closed. A limited non-food vendor application is open for Charlotte Forten Park while space remains, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Start the Charlotte Forten Park vendor application → Food and beverage vendors are curated separately and should not use this form. Accepted vendors should follow the instructions sent by the Marketplace team or email vendors@creativecollectivema.com for operational help.

What are the 2026 vendor operating hours?

Vendor load-in begins at 7:00 a.m. Public market hours vary by date as listed above. Breakdown begins after the market closes and must follow on-site staff instructions. Accepted vendors receive date-specific operational details from the Marketplace team.

Are permits required?

Permit requirements depend on the activation. Food, alcohol and entertainment permits must be approved before the applicable event date. If you are unsure what applies to your business, contact the vendor team before making plans.

Who should I contact with a vendor question?

Email vendors@creativecollectivema.com or call (978) 224-8856. Real people on the Creative Collective team manage the market and are here to help.

Can my business sponsor the 2026 Marketplace?

Yes. Current opportunities include Title, Premier, Featured, Supporting and Community sponsorships, plus custom packages for brands that need a different activation or inventory mix. Benefits can include event signage, digital promotion, website visibility, on-site activations, newsletters and VIP access, depending on the package.

How do I start a sponsorship conversation?

Use the contact page and tell us a little about your goals. The team can help identify the right level or build a custom approach around the audience you want to reach.