The holiday season will kick off in Salem with the return of Winterfest, a community event designed to bring together people of all ages for an evening of festive fun. Scheduled for Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the celebration will take place at the Ingram Senior Center, located at 1 Sally Sweets Way, Salem, NH 03079.

This event is organized jointly by Salem’s Community Services Department, including the Senior Services Department and the Recreation Division. It aims to provide an intergenerational experience for grandparents, parents, and children alike.

Winterfest will be held indoors, creating a cozy atmosphere with convenient onsite parking. Families can look forward to a variety of activities and attractions that highlight local talent and foster community engagement.

A major highlight of the evening is the Cocoa Crawl, where guests can visit multiple stations to sample different hot chocolate creations. Participants will collect passport stamps at each stop and vote for their favorite cocoa. Completed passports will be entered into a raffle for a special prize.

This year’s Cocoa Crawl is made possible with the support and creativity of our participating organizations: Salem Area Women’s Club – GFWC, Salem Conservation Commission, Belko Landscaping, Bridging the Horizon, and the Kimi Nichols Center.

In addition to the Cocoa Crawl, the event will feature a Local Vendor Market showcasing handmade goods, seasonal décor, crafts, baked treats, and more. The market provides an opportunity to support local makers and find unique holiday gifts.

Food trucks will be onsite offering warm, hearty meal options. Children will also have the chance to write Letters to Santa, adding to the evening’s magic. A scavenger hunt and additional raffle prizes will round out the festivities.

Winterfest is made possible through the generosity of our event sponsors: United Health Care, Salem Police Benevolence Association, Atwood Jewelers, Benefit Advisors Group, and Wingate. Their support helps ensure a welcoming, memorable evening for all attendees.

Community members or organizations interested in participating in the Cocoa Crawl or joining the vendor market are encouraged to contact Julie Isabelle at Jisabelle@salemnh.gov.

With activities for every member of the family, Salem Winterfest promises a delightful night of community connection and holiday spirit. Residents are invited to come out, explore the activities, and celebrate the season together.