Salem Heritage Days Kicks Off Tuesday

SALEM, MA – Heritage Days will begin on Tuesday, Aug. 1, and continue through Aug. 13, 2017. Heritage Days kicks off this year with National Night Out, a nationwide initiative designed to promote positive police-community relationships. Last year was the first time the Salem Police Department organized this event and this year is expected to be even bigger.

It will include having police, fire, ambulance Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) and Essex County Sheriff’s Department vehicles on the Common with staff to interact with participants, along with a bike safety course, and K-9 demonstrations. There will be over 30 tables and tents setup by different organizations, social service agencies and local businesses offering information and free give-a-ways. Kids’ activities include inflatables, games, and arts & crafts. There will also be free pizzas, drinks, and snacks donated by Salem businesses.

"This event truly embodies what Salem Heritage Days is all about, community," said Mayor Kim Driscoll of National Night Out. "It’s a perfect kick-off to 13 days of events."

The highlight of the first weekend will be the 29th Annual Salem Maritime Festival on Derby Wharf organized by the National Park Service, which will span over three days filled with entertainment, children’s activities, demonstrations, harbor cruises and tours of visiting vessels.

Don’t worry, all your favorites are packed into the schedule: Tour-A-Truck, Salem’s Pizza Tasting, the Salem Community Concert Band; the Ice Scream Bowl; Kids Night on the Common, the Essex Street Fair, Senior events, and the Annual Phillips House Antique Car Meet to name a few.

The schedule is packed with events over 13 days, and highlights all the free opportunities for Salem residents to visit many of our downtown museums and attractions and receive discounts on the Salem Ferry and tours to Bakers Island Light Station.

"I want to thank all of the organizations involved in putting together all of these events," said Driscoll in a statement. "Salem is extremely fortunate to have so many dedicated groups to ensure the continuance of Salem’s annual Heritage Days celebration."

Click here for the full schedule.

Image via City of Salem