The Salem Witch Fair is an annual event that takes place in Salem, Massachusetts. This event celebrates the history and folklore surrounding the Salem witch trials of 1692. The fair features a variety of activities and attractions that pay homage to this dark chapter in American history. One of the highlights of the Salem Witch Fair is the reenactments of the witch trials. Actors dressed in period clothing portray the accused witches, as well as the judges and town officials involved in the trials. These dramatic performances give visitors a chance to experience the hysteria and injustice that occurred during this time.
These dramatic performances give visitors a chance to experience the hysteria and injustice that occurred during this time. In addition to the reenactments, the fair also offers a variety of educational exhibits and presentations. Visitors can learn about the history of witchcraft and its role in early American society.
The Salem Witch Trials: Restoring Justice
Please note: Capacity is limited in the Salem Witch Trials: Restoring Justice exhibition gallery. Visitors may experience long wait times, especially on the weekends. Please stop by the Witch Trials exhibition entrance to be added to the waitlist. While you wait, listen to our latest PEMcast for a sneak peek of the exhibition with the curators.
Salem’s witch trials are a definitive example of intolerance and injustice in American history. This exhibition examines the extraordinary series of events in 1692-3 that led to the deaths of 25 innocent women, men and children who were wrongfully convicted of crimes. More than 300 years later, the personal tragedies and grievous wrongs that occurred still provoke us to reflect and reckon with the experiences of those involved.
The exhibition tells this story through court documents and authentic historic objects presented as tangible fragments directly tied to people in Salem and nearby communities in the late 17th century. A handwritten petition, a carved loom, a walking stick — each illuminates an aspect of individuals who lived through Salem’s witch trials and serves as a reminder of the real people impacted by these harrowing events.
Many Salem area residents realized the judicial proceedings were flawed and the trials unjust. As early as the late 1690s, victims and their communities took action in attempts to restore the innocence of those wrongly accused and convicted. While the trauma and loss can never be fully repaired, these tangible steps over the centuries have made progress toward healing a deeply fractured community. The process continues today.
The Salem Witch Trials: Restoring Justice is organized by the Peabody Essex Museum. This exhibition is made possible by Carolyn and Peter S. Lynch and The Lynch Foundation. We thank James B. and Mary Lou Hawkes, Chip and Susan Robie, and Timothy T. Hilton as supporters of the Exhibition Innovation Fund. We also recognize the generosity of the East India Marine Associates of the Peabody Essex Museum.
Follow along on social media using #1692witchtrials
TOP IMAGE: Tompkins Harrison Matteson. Trial of George Jacobs, August 5, 1692, 1855. Oil on canvas, 39 × 53 in. (99.1 × 134.6 cm). Gift of R. W. Ropes, 1859 (1246).
Crow Haven Corner, SALEM’S OLDEST WITCH SHOP, invites you to our psychic fair! LORELEI, THE LOVE WITCH, and 10 of her Salem Witches specializing in Tarot, palmistry, and mediumship! Open.
There are also displays showcasing artifacts and documents from the witch trials, providing a fascinating glimpse into this unique period in American history. For those interested in the occult and supernatural, the Salem Witch Fair has plenty to offer. There are psychic readings, tarot card readings, and other spiritual services available. Visitors can also browse through a variety of vendors selling crystals, herbs, and other items associated with witchcraft and magic. Food and drink are also a big part of the Salem Witch Fair. There are food trucks and stalls offering a variety of tasty treats, including traditional New England fare such as clam chowder and lobster rolls. And of course, no fair would be complete without sweet treats like cotton candy and fried dough. The Salem Witch Fair is a popular event, attracting thousands of visitors each year. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about and celebrate the history of witchcraft, while also enjoying a fun and festive atmosphere. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique and entertaining experience, the Salem Witch Fair is definitely worth a visit..
Reviews for "The Salem Witch Trials: The Intersection of Law and Magic"
1. Robert - 2/5 - I was really disappointed with "Salem Witch Fair". The plot was confusing and lacked coherence. It felt like the characters were thrown into random situations with no real purpose or development. The pacing was also off, with some scenes dragging on for too long and others feeling rushed. Overall, it was a lackluster experience that didn't live up to the hype.
2. Sarah - 1/5 - I couldn't stand "Salem Witch Fair". The acting was wooden and the dialogue felt forced and unnatural. The special effects were also poorly done, with obvious CGI that took me out of the story. On top of that, the story itself was cliché and predictable. I had high hopes for this film, but it was a major letdown. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
3. Mark - 2/5 - "Salem Witch Fair" had potential, but it failed to deliver. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it difficult to care about their fates. The historical accuracy was also questionable, with many inaccuracies that were distracting. The film seemed more focused on creating jump scares than telling a cohesive and engaging story. Overall, it was a forgettable experience that I wouldn't watch again.
4. Lisa - 2.5/5 - "Salem Witch Fair" was just okay for me. The plot had potential, but it felt fragmented and poorly executed. The performances were average at best, with some actors delivering their lines with little conviction. The scares were also predictable, with no real surprises or twists. It had its moments, but ultimately fell short of being truly memorable.