Salem’s So Sweet: A Celebration of Chocolate, Ice Sculptures, and Valentine’s Fun!

Salem, MA is about to get a whole lot sweeter! The 23rd annual Salem’s So Sweet Chocolate & Ice Sculpture Festival is set to take place from February 7 through February 9, 2025, bringing an irresistible mix of chocolate treats, stunning ice sculptures, and festive Valentine’s Day shopping to the historic downtown. Organized by Salem Main Streets and the Salem Chamber of Commerce, this beloved tradition is a must-visit winter event for locals and visitors alike.

A Weekend of Sweet and Sparkling Delights

The festival kicks off on Friday, February 7, with a Kickoff Event fundraiser at the PEM Connect Space (135 Essex Street). Attendees will receive a commemorative glass, a complimentary pour of wine, and a sweet-filled goodie bag before heading out to explore the city. Several downtown businesses will be offering wine tastings and treats for ticket holders, and guests can enjoy the illuminated ice sculptures and live music on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall.

Dazzling Ice Sculptures and Illuminations

One of the festival’s biggest draws is the stunning ice sculpture display, featuring 30 beautifully crafted sculptures scattered throughout downtown Salem. This year, there will be two nights of illumination! On Friday night, select sculptures in Lappin Park and the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall will be lit, and on Saturday night, all sculptures across town will glow from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., weather permitting.

With so many stunning sculptures on display, here are some highlights you won’t want to miss, all sponsored by some of Salem’s most beloved businesses:

• Candy Conversation Hearts sponsored by ASCEND — A sweet, colorful reminder of Valentine’s Day nostalgia.
• Salem Trolley sponsored by Trolley Depot, Modern Millie, and Pamplemousse — A tribute to Salem’s iconic trolley service.
• Cauldron sponsored by Witch Pix — Perfect for capturing a magical photo op!
• Gargoyle sponsored by Witch City Wicks — An enchanting, mystical figure guarding the heart of downtown.
• Moon & Stars sponsored by Moons Gift Shop — A celestial sculpture sure to dazzle stargazers.
• Sailboat sponsored by Salem Waterfront Hotel — Celebrating Salem’s rich maritime history.
• Halloween Cat sponsored by Circle of Stitches — A playful nod to Salem’s famous feline folklore.
• Bakery sponsored by Coffee Time Bake Shop — A delicious tribute to sweet treats and cozy mornings.

Want to explore them all? The Salem Trolley will provide transportation for just $3 per person on Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. A map of all ice sculpture locations will be available online at www.salemsosweet.com.

Chocolate, Shopping, and Sweet Specials

Local businesses are embracing the love-filled theme of the festival with special chocolate and Valentine’s Day-inspired promotions. Shoppers can take part in the “Chocolate Hearts Challenge” by visiting participating businesses displaying the festival’s special signage. While no purchase is required to enter, supporting local shops is highly encouraged! With over 40 businesses taking part, there’s plenty of sweet fun to go around.

Special Events and Markets

Beyond chocolate and ice sculptures, Salem’s So Sweet is packed with exciting events all weekend long!

• Friday: Witch Pix’s 10th Anniversary Potion Party – Celebrate with magical photo ops and fun surprises.
• Saturday: Love Letter Artisan Market at the Hawthorne Hotel, plus join Salem Bespoke Boutique’s 3rd anniversary celebration!
• Sunday: Steeped in History at The House of the Seven Gables.

Whether you’re here for the sweets, sculptures, shopping, or seasonal charm, Salem’s So Sweet is the perfect way to celebrate love and winter magic. Stay up to date with festival details at salemsosweet.com and follow along on Facebook at facebook.com/salemsosweet for the latest updates.

See you in Salem for a weekend of chocolate, ice, and winter fun!