WITCH CITY

Tourists from across the country flock to Salem in October to visit the Witch Museum and the House of Seven Gables, and to celebrate Halloween. Salem Commons transforms into something resembling a carnival. Haunted houses frighten, and mediums prognosticate. If you have never been to the Witch City in the fall, you are missing an incomparable experience.

The month-long festivities commence with the annual, family-friendly Haunted Happenings Grand Parade sponsored by the Salem Chamber of Commerce. This year’s theme, “Upside Down and Inside Out,” begins at 6:30 p.m. on October 7, followed by costume balls, the screening of horror films, and walking tours traversing Salem’s history and haunts.

For a potentially haunted stay, make a reservation at the historic Hawthorne Hotel. Located next to Salem Commons, the Hawthorne typifies elegance. From its majestic ballroom, to its