Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
MARBLEHEAD, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Marblehead has become a sanctuary for Salem residents during Halloween season.
Visiting Salem during October is a long-held tradition for many in New England and the number of visitors seems to go up every year. According to Destination Salem, the number of visitors in Oct. 2024 was 1,040,580 an almost 9% increase from the previous year's 958,518 visitors. The increase of visitors for Oct. 31 between the past 2 years was almost 37% with 87,351 in 2024 and 63,856 in 2023.
With the rush during Halloween festivities in the city, Salem residents look to nearby areas for a break from the large crowds.
Marblehead became that safe place for many, "we see a lot of people that come here from Salem during this time of year," one resident said.
Some residents remember a time when the Witch City wasn't so overrun with tourists during Halloween time. Eric Russel, a former Salem resident who lives in Marblehead said, "I watched it go from a basic mellow thing to feeling like it's turned into Mardi Gras." He welcomes those trying to get away from the chaos and said, "I think it's great, I think we should all help each other."
Some said traffic becomes a problem, they have to drive as far from Salem as they can and it's really hard to get into the city when needed.
Some businesses in Marblehead offer discounts to Salem locals and residents have expressed their support, "they're welcome over here," one said.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@JamesRojas.bsky.social) reports.