SALEM — The city’s Annual Heritage Days festival will take place this year from Aug. 1 through Aug. 7 with a line-up of non-stop fun and special events.
“Heritage Days is always a fun, family-friendly week of special events and activities. I want to thank all the organizations and individuals involved in putting together the events that comprise our annual Heritage Days celebration,” Mayor Kimberley Driscoll said in a statement. “Salem is extremely fortunate to have so many dedicated groups and volunteers to ensure the continuance of this special and unique festival every August.”
The event will feature “musical entertainment” at the Salem Willows Shell with an opportunity to enjoy the Salem Community Concert Band and Community Jazz Band under the direction of Cynthia Napierkowski, the director of bands and K-12 coordinator of Salem public schools on Monday, Aug. 1. On Tuesday Aug. 2 the North Shore Concert Band will perform.
The week concludes on Sunday, Aug. 7, where DJ’s, VJ’s and live electronic music will entertain.
Several events throughout the week will be provided exclusively for older adults, including an ice cream social, a barbeque at Winter Island, and a Masquerade Ball.
The Salem Police Department and Fire Department will also host their annual “Public Safety Day,” an event designed to promote positive community relationships with public safety officers. At the event, several Department of Public Works and public safety vehicles for youngsters to explore will be provided. The event will also feature a K-9 demonstration, and a Salem Police & Firefighters vs. Salem Youth basketball game.
“Public Safety Day” will feature over 60 tables and tents set up by different organizations, social service agencies, and local businesses offering information and many free give-a-ways. This event is designed as a way for residents to engage with public safety officials and local organizations.
Other events during the week include an ice cream tasting, a “fan-favorite,” according to locals, a movie in the Common on Wednesday, Aug. 3, and family “bingo night” on Friday, Aug. 6 at Charlotte Forten Park.
Newly added to Heritage Days this year is the Salem Jazz and Soul Festival, with the goal to bring “great music to the people of Salem.” This will be a special one-day event on the Salem Common on Aug. 6 from noon to 8 p.m.
Find the complete schedule for Heritage Days 2022 online at www.salemma.gov/heritagedays.
Rachel Galatis can be reached at [email protected].
