Salem, Massachusetts is famous for its history of the witch trials of 1692. Today, the town draws in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year interested in learning about witchcraft. But not all of Salem’s attractions are dark. There’s a special place in town that celebrates the light side of Salem’s magic: The Good Witch of Salem, which is perfect for families and kids looking to explore a fun and positive world of magic.
What is The Good Witch of Salem?
The Good Witch of Salem is a magical event space created by Ashley Tina. Located in the center of Salem, Massachusetts, this space allows children and families to experience magic in a playful and welcoming way. Unlike Salem’s haunted houses, ghost tours, and witch museums that focus on the darker side of history, The Good Witch of Salem’s objective is to nurture creativity, imagination, and kindness.
Who is Ashley Tina?
Ashley Tina is the founder of The Good Witch of Salem and a local teacher who has devoted her life to education. Ashley began her career as an elementary school teacher in Revere, Massachusetts. She also earned her Master’s degree in Special Education from Salem State University and additional teaching licenses in Early Childhood Education and English as a Second Language. These qualifications helped her create a space that is perfect for children. Ashley is known as the “Certified Good Witch,” a title she created to focus on her positive message and magical experiences for families. Ashley received “Businessperson of the Year” recognition from the Salem Chamber of Commerce in 2021 for her efforts to develop a family-friendly attraction and her dedication to the Salem neighborhood.
Activities at The Good Witch of Salem
The Good Witch of Salem is a wonderful place for families with young children. It offers activities throughout the year, especially during Halloween and Salem’s seasonal festivities, making it a unique destination among Salem’s attractions.
Storytime: Kids are welcome to gather around to hear enchanting stories about witches, fairies, and magical creatures. These stories are often about kindness, bravery, and creativity, providing a positive twist to the theme of witchcraft.
Craft Workshops: Children can join in workshops to make their own magical crafts, like wands, fairy houses, or colorful potions. These activities are designed to spark creativity and help children work together.
Seasonal Events: During various times of the year, especially Halloween, The Good Witch of Salem has a variety of fun activities, such as pumpkin painting, positive spell-casting workshops, and scavenger hunts throughout Salem.
The Good Witch Shop
When you visit Salem, you can stop by The Good Witch Shop, which is filled with fun and whimsical items. This shop has books, wands, and other items that encourage children to use their imagination. Unlike many other places tied to Salem’s history of witchcraft, there is nothing scary here—only items that promote positivity and creativity.
Why Visit The Good Witch of Salem?
While Salem has many attractions that dive deep into the town’s dark past, such as ghost tours and witch museums, The Good Witch of Salem offers something different. It is ideal for families who want to explore magic without any fear, providing a friendly and fun environment for children. This attraction is conveniently located near the Salem Witch Museum and Salem Common, making it an easy addition to any part of your trip. The Good Witch of Salem also works closely with local schools and libraries to bring the magic beyond just the shop. Sometimes, they host events like witch-themed tea parties or holiday workshops—all part of making Salem’s heritage accessible and fun for young people.
How to Visit
The Good Witch of Salem is located in downtown Salem, Massachusetts, close to other popular destinations. This makes it a very convenient stop for visitors, especially during the busy Halloween season. It is recommended to check their website or social media for event details and book tickets in advance, as events often fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
For families visiting Salem, Massachusetts, and looking for a magical experience that promotes creativity, kindness, and imagination without the scary parts of Salem’s history, The Good Witch of Salem is a must-see attraction. Its positive, fun, and mystical experience is ideal for younger audiences interested in a different side of Salem’s heritage.
Reviews of The Good Witch of Salem
Meghan: “We celebrated my daughter’s 5th birthday at The Good Witch of Salem with a magical spa party. The Good Witch of Salem captivated the attention of our party-goers. She nurtured their sense of wonder and celebrated the birthday girl and each guest!”
Nathaniel: “Absolutely fantastic! We came into the Boston area for a week-long trip and took our daughter here for the full good witch makeover, and it was the best part of the trip.”
Kate: “Such a MAGICAL time we gals had yesterday! Thank you, Good Witch of Salem!!! Everything was so adorable and special from the second we walked up to the building.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we invite more than the specified number of children to a birthday party?
The Good Witch of Salem strives to provide a unique and intimate experience for birthday children and their guests. Party packages are priced for specific numbers of children (e.g., 10 attendees for most packages), and typically only four adults are allowed to stay in the store during the party. Extra guests can be accommodated only with prior approval, and it’s recommended that guests be dropped off for the party.
What are some activities offered during birthday parties?
Birthday parties at The Good Witch of Salem include a range of magical activities. For example, a “Magic Day” transformation for the birthday child, aura crystal nail painting, potion-making, beaded necklace crafting, meditative mindfulness, and more are part of various themed packages. All packages include a 60-minute party session followed by 30 minutes for cake.
Can I book The Good Witch of Salem for a private event?
Yes, The Good Witch of Salem offers private bookings, which can include a character appearance for an additional fee. Events such as private birthday parties or other celebrations can be arranged, with each detail carefully curated to create a magical experience for the attendees.
What should I bring to a birthday party?
For birthday parties, guests are required to provide their own party favors, cake or cupcakes, beverages, paper products, banners, and balloons. However, The Good Witch of Salem offers select party favors at discounted rates if purchased during party booking.
Photos of The Good Witch of Salem
References:
- The Good Witch of Salem – Official Website
- Salem Chamber of Commerce – Ashley Tina Honored as Businessperson of the Year
- YouTube Channel – The Good Witch of Salem