Three things COVID-19 has highlighted regarding visiting Salem, MA

COVID-19. What a gigantic party pooper and buzz kill regarding visiting Salem, MA…am I right!? 2020 has been a year of massive transformation, change and obstacles. Business owners had to pivot how they operate, face new challenges, deal with problems never seen before and focus on keeping afloat. Within my Facebook group I have never seen such fighting, never had to remove/block so many people and have never had to step in to moderate this regularly. It has been rough for everyone, all across the board.

However, in the wake of Halloween and everything Haunted Happenings, I wanted to focus today on three things that COVID-19 has highlighted for us. Three things that I would really like us all to focus on as the crowds die down.

Salem is a year round destination

I have said this before and will continue to preach it – Salem is a year round destination. Sure, coming in the fall is absolutely magical and an experience unlike anything else. However, there are plenty of things to do, restaurants to dine at and businesses to shop at all year long. One of my favorite festivals (after everything Haunted Happenings, of course) actually takes place in the chilly month of February! It’s the Salem’s So Sweet festival. Some of my other favorites include the Salem Arts Festival, the Christmas in Salem house tour and the annual Pride Parade.

You can support Salem from afar

I know many people unfortunately had to cancel or reschedule their 2020 trip. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t support the witch city from afar. Many businesses rely on October income to support themselves through the winter. Right now, especially in the wake of a pandemic, is the time to do some online shopping. Support your favorites by buying online, purchasing gift cards and booking next year’s events as early as you are able to.

Leave good reviews for your favorite businesses and restaurants

Every year through the month of October, people unfortunately leave rude reviews for Salem’s businesses. They are frustrated with long lines, crowds and the general craziness that comes with an October visit. They take it out on the business owners by complaining about those long lines, the server taking a little extra time because they were slammed or an order being mixed up in the chaos. This happens regardless of a pandemic or not. Right now is the time to help counteract that!! Take to Yelp, Facebook, Google, etc. and sing the praises of your favorites! It might seem like a small thing but its definitely a helpful way to show your support without needing to spend any money.

I hope this helps give you a little insight into the witch city, COVID-19, what we could all do to show support and more. Please feel free to share this blog post to help spread the word. Many of you had to reschedule your visit to 2021 and we want all of our businesses to still be here to welcome you.