​Few communities have the rich legacy of historic houses that Salem, Massachusetts boasts. These homes, spanning four centuries, help define the character as well as the appearance of the city.  Every year Christmas in Salem focuses on a different neighborhood, with homeowners inviting visitors into their homes fully decked out in holiday regalia. Both new and returning tour-goers are able to explore a series of unique histories and architectural tales.

Held annually the first weekend in December, Christmas in Salem inaugurates the holiday season, bringing thousands of visitors to see our homes and enjoy our city. The first Christmas house tour took place in 1979 under the combined auspices Historic Salem, Inc. and the Visiting Nurses Association of the North Shore.  Historic Salem, Inc has since assumed responsibility for the tour, and it is now our largest annual fundraising effort.

Proceeds of the tours support Historic Salem's mission to ensure that the historic resources of Salem, which are the key to its identity, its quality of life, and its economic vitality, are preserved for future generations and that new development complements the ​historic character of the city.  They also allow us to maintain and preserve the Nathaniel Bowditch House, a National Historic Landmark that serves as HSI’s headquarters.

To view highlights from previous tours, please visit our Facebook page.