Essex County

Protocols in Salem to celebrate Halloween safely

SALEM, Mass. — The state’s spookiest city is ready to welcome thousands of visitors for Halloween Sunday.

People are encouraged to take the commuter rail or Salem Ferry into town to avoid traffic, road closures, and parking restrictions.

The city is also requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of any indoor event with 100 people or more in attendance.

This rule applies to everyone, even if they’re fully vaccinated.

The city has opened up a rapid testing site at the Peabody Essex Museum. It will be open from 12 – 5 p.m. People are encouraged to pre-register online here.

Meanwhile, there is an indoor mask mandate in Salem.

Penalties for illegal behavior such as vandalism, littering, or public drinking are being tripled this Halloween. So you could face a $300 ticket for violations.

City leaders are reminding visitors that the party is over after the fireworks show.

The last trains start leaving Salem depot at 10:30 p.m., and people will start getting turned away at bars and restaurants at that time, too.