Salem is thought to be one of the creepiest places on earth. The Salem Witch Trials happened there and supposedly many of their spirits still reside in the city. The month of October brings about a time of year to celebrate the dead and the spirits among them. The Festival of the Dead honors those that have passed with many events such as rituals, customs and a welcoming environment for the dead.
Spectral Evidence: Ghost Hunting 101- October 18, 8 p.m.
Participants will get to hear firsthand experiences of ghost hunting from radio personality and author, Ron Kolek. They will get to investigate the town of Salem with him and his team on the search for ghosts. Those involved in this activity will get to use ghost hunting gear as they try to have their own paranormal experience. This gear includes electro-magnetic field meters, full spectrum cameras, thermal meters and PX Ovilus machines.
The Dumb Supper: Dinner With The Dead- October 26, 6:30 p.m.
The Dumb Supper is a type of dinner that most of us have never experienced. It consists of delicious cuisine such as stuffed chicken breasts, white chocolate raspberry ice cream and a grilled vegetable medley. It is called a dumb dinner because the meal is served backwards, with desert being first and the appetizer and rolls being served last. There is one other catch when it comes to this dinner: everyone has to be completely silent. The only sounds aloud are the music that is played in memory of the dead. Participants are allowed to bring items and pictures with them of a loved one that has passed that they want to summon during this dinner. It is thought that by not speaking during the meal that the participant’s minds and hearts will be open to allow them an opportunity to welcome their loved one. This event is taken very seriously and participants must be on time and their cellphones must be turned off, no exceptions. Anyone who speaks during the dinner will be silently ushered out of the room.
The Official Salem Witches’ Ball- October 31, 7:30 p.m.
The Witches’ Ball in Salem is a night filled with music, rituals and a festive Halloween Party. Participants can dance in the Grand Ballroom, have a Halloween inspired drink at the bar or enjoy a laser light show. On the second floor there are psychic readings, voodoo rituals and a drum circle. One of the highlights of the evening is a special ceremony where the witches of Salem honor the spirits.
These are just several of the many events that are taking place during the Festival of the Dead. If you are found of witches and ghosts or just want to honor a loved one that has passed, this festival is worth checking out.
