The Community Services Department hosted its second annual Winter Fest, a collaborative event between the Recreation and Senior Services divisions designed to bring intergenerational holiday cheer to the community.

Winter Fest featured free horse and carriage rides along Sally Sweets Way, a brand-new Cocoa Crawl, complimentary craft activities, a scavenger hunt, Trivia Tunes, and photos with Santa Claus.

The event was made possible through the generous support of United Health Care, the Salem Police Benevolence Association, Atwood Jewelers, Benefit Advisors Group, Wingate, and Tavern in the Square.

The Cocoa Crawl was a standout success, offering five unique hot cocoa variations prepared by local organizations. Bridging the Horizon was voted Best Hot Chocolate of the night. We also thank the Salem Area Women’s Club, Salem Fire Department, Kimi Nichols, and Belko Landscaping for their participation.

Participants who sampled all cocoa stations were entered into a raffle for a Tavern in the Square gift card, with an additional raffle entry awarded to families attending with multiple generations.

Winter Fest was a tremendous success, and the Community Services Department looks forward to expanding the event in the future. Save the date for December 10, 2026.