Salem’s October Club Turns Shopping into Support for the Community

Every October, the streets of Salem are filled with magic, mystery, and an unmistakable autumn buzz. But behind the costumes, candles, and cobblestones, something even more powerful is happening—local businesses are coming together to support neighbors in need through The Salem Pantry’s October Club.

Now in its third year, the October Club is transforming the busiest month of Salem’s calendar into a time of meaningful impact. With 35 participating businesses in 2025, each contributing in their own creative way, every mug, meal, or magical keepsake purchased helps provide healthy food to families across the North Shore.

A Mug with a Mission: Destination Salem’s October Club Item

This year, Destination Salem is proud to take part in the October Club with a small ceramic mug featuring a classic witch design. More than just a souvenir, the mug is a nod to the city’s heritage — and with every purchase, a portion goes directly to The Salem Pantry to support food access in the community.

Spotlight in the Boston Business Journal

The October Club’s growing impact recently caught the attention of the Boston Business Journal, which spotlighted how the initiative channels Salem’s seasonal tourism into year-round community support. The program was first conceived in 2023 by Ashley Judge, Executive Director of Destination Salem and Vice Chair of The Salem Pantry’s Board of Directors.

As Ashley explained to the Boston Business Journal:

“Each October, 1.2 million people visit Salem, generating an extraordinary economic impact. The October Club gives us a new way to recycle that spending in the local economy, channeling visitor dollars into The Salem Pantry, where they become fresh, healthy food for families across the North Shore.”

Spellbinding Shopping for a Cause

Destination Salem isn’t alone. Dozens of local shops and makers have joined the effort by offering exclusive October Club products. Whether you’re wandering Essex Street or browsing online, there’s a chance to shop with purpose:

• Couch Dog Brewing Co.: Spooky Halloween T-Shirt

• District Trading Co.: Limited Edition Tote Bag

• The Good Witch of Salem: Wooden Pocket Witch

• HausWitch: Commemorative Salem Mug

• Heart Lynx & The Hive: Green Amethyst Reiki Candle / October Essentials Travel Bag

• Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry: Cauldron Necklace / Food-Themed Hair Clips

• Modern Millie: Reusable Bag

• Nocturne: Mystery Trinket with a $5 donation

• Professor Spindlewink’s World of Wizardry: 3D Baby Dragon

• Salem Style: Pumpkin Spice Iced Coffee Cozy

• Whimsy’s Sweet Life: Stuffed Webkinz Reindeer

Eat, Drink, and Give Back

Many of Salem’s favorite restaurants and cafes are also getting involved. Grab a bite or sip and know that part of your purchase goes directly to The Salem Pantry:

• A&J King Artisan Bakery: Trick or Treat Bar (Mondays & Fridays)

• Annie’s Asian Mart: Boba Tea

• Curly Girl Candy Shop: Smarties Lollipop

• Deacon Giles Distillery: Pumpkin Spiced Latte Cocktail

• Gulu-Gulu Café: Vegan Breakfast Sandwich / Pastry

• Koto Asian Fusion: Appetizer

• Ledger Restaurant: Pumpkin Cheesecake

Local Businesses, Big Impact

Some businesses made generous direct donations to The Salem Pantry, helping extend food access even further:

• Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe, Coffee Time Bake Shop, The Coven’s Cottage, Hive & Forge, Moody’s Home & Gifts, Notch Brewery, Pamplemousse, Salem Bespoke Boutique, Salem Historical Tours, Salem Witch Museum, The Salem Inn, The Village Tavern, The Witchery, and Witch Tees.

Thanks to their support—and the creativity of the October Club network—more than $36,000 has been raised since the initiative began in 2023. Every dollar makes a difference, providing fresh, nutritious food to neighbors and families in need.

Make Your October Count

Whether you’re visiting for the Haunted Happenings or you’re a local embracing fall in the Witch City, the October Club is a chance to make your spending go further. Pick up a Salem souvenir, sip a seasonal drink, or attend a themed event—and know you’re supporting a stronger, healthier community.

To learn more, explore participating businesses, or make a direct donation, visit TheSalemPantry.org.