SALEM, MASS. (WHDH) - People in Massachusetts are enjoying spooky Halloween celebrations, with many flocking to Salem for their Haunted Happenings as officials announce a major brush fire in the area is officially extinguished.
The city said there have been more visitors this month than last year and they hope that continues throughout Halloween.
Last year, Haunted Happenings welcomed 1.2 million visitors to Salem for the month leading up to Halloween. This year, with the record warmth, those numbers are expected to be surpassed.
Salem calls itself the Witch City in reference to the infamous Salem Witch Trials, which happened in the 1600s. This year, Halloween revelers are being asked to bring a different kind of mask — medical ones — just in case the smoke becomes an issue.
On Thursday, thousands of Salem visitors were seen in all sorts of costumes — including Buddy the Elf and the Joker.
“We’re out here with a bunch of festive folks,” said one visitor from Little Rock, Ark.
Jen Harlin celebrated the holiday in the Witch City after traveling from South Dakota.
“It’s Salem. It’s Halloween, so we brought our witch’s hats and we’re ready for a good time,” Harlin said.
Joel Wedge and his wife visited Salem for their honeymoon.
“We’re on our honeymoon, actually. We’re visiting Salem. Been on our bucket list, wanting to do it, so really excited,” Wedge said.
Police officers patrolled the downtown area Thursday afternoon, managing the crowds. Visitors are asked to stay alert and use common sense.
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