Here come the freaks
Written by Glen Hughes on October 30th, 2008 1 Comment
Salem in October is a freak magnet. Many of us who live here grumble a bit when we need to make our way through town or driving in or out. Parking is a beast. But all those little irritations fade away if like many residents you let yourself get lost in the Halloween spirit.
Satan and the God squad
Tomorrow it will be absolutely bonkers in Salem. The weather is looking good and this year Halloween is on a Friday night. Last year over 100,000 people came to Salem to celebrate and I predict we will get much more than that this year.
If you are coming to Salem for the first time or maybe you are an annual visitor or perhaps a new resident, you might enjoy this little refresher list of do’s and dont’s.
Salem Streets on Halloween
DO come early and take public transportation. The T has added extra commuter rail trains to Salem and extended the hours of those leaving last trains to Boston, 11 to 11:24 p.m.; last trains to Newburyport, 11:26 p.m.; last train to Rockport, 12:38 a.m. DON’T plan on parking anywhere near down town if you drive in after noon. If you have to drive you will be walking a distance.
DO wear something comfortable. I know you want to wear that slutty witch costume with the 8 inch f**k me boots, and we want to see you in it but remember that many of our streets are cobblestone or brick. DO consider the size of your costume as you will be packed in like sardines whether on the street or in a bar. DON’T freak out when you get stopped every 5 seconds because someone wants to take a picture of you looking like a bondage Tickle Me Elmo in a gimp outfit.
Naughty Halloween Costumes
DON’T expect a prime spot at your favorite bar. DO use the opportunity to chat up people so they will give you their bar stool when they leave.
Speaking of drinking, DON’T bring a glass bottle of jagermeister with you. I’ve seen too many people trip over their own costume or someone elses, packing glass is a bad idea. DO patronize your favorite watering hole or have a cocktail at home. If you must bring a beverage with you, use a flask.
View from Bar on Halloween
DO take the time to walk all around down town. The streets will be blocked off from Washington Street from New Derby to Lynde streets; Derby Street from Lafayette to Congress streets; Hawthorne Boulevard from Derby to Essex streets; Washington Square west and south; Essex Street from Barton Square to Union Street. Live bands and DJ’s will be set up on all of the streets with different types of music playing. DON’T stay in one spot, you’ll miss out on so much of whats going on. At least do one jog around town and plop yourself at your favorite spot.
The City wants to close things down at 10:30 pm ,well before you are done partying. DON’T wait to get into a bar or restaurant no lines will be allowed after 10:45. DO plan on being inside somewhere or being moved along by the massive contingent of coppers.
Cops on Halloween
If you are not comfortable in large crowds DO come early and leave early or take a valium. DON’T expect people to make a path for you to move. DO be polite, it will get you much further than being a tool.
We will be out having fun and taking pictures but if you have a great photo you would like to share with us send it over and we will post a bunch on Monday.
One Response to “Here come the freaks”
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Wonderful advice, sir, I hope it is well heeded by the hordes.
For those of us working all weekend serving the masses, “good luck!”