SeaFestival of Trees in Salisbury

The Seacoast’s most magical holiday tradition is back! The 13th Annual SeaFestival of Trees opens Saturday, November 22 at the Blue Ocean Event Center in Salisbury, transforming the oceanfront venue into a sparkling winter wonderland of more than 145 themed trees, a giant sand sculpture, Santa’s Workshop, and an indoor skating rink. The festival runs weekends through December 7, with additional special event nights throughout the season.

Now in its 13th year, the SeaFestival of Trees has welcomed more than 250,000 visitors and raised over $1 million to support the Salisbury Beach Historic Carousel, a preserved 1909 Looff-Mangels treasure.

“It’s a perfect blend of holiday magic with community purpose—festival-goers experience a joyful, affordable way to celebrate the season and event proceeds preserve a piece of New England history,” said Kathy Aiello, Managing Director of the festival.

SeaFestival of Trees

This year’s festival promises awe-inspiring sights and experiences, from an Elf-themed Candy Cane Forest with towering striped canes and an 8-foot narwhal, to a stunning 10-foot-tall Christmas tree sand sculpture created by master sculptor Greg Grady. Kids will delight in visiting Santa’s Workshop, where they can explore toy-stuffed curio cabinets and play at a Toy Testing Station with timeless classics like Etch A Sketch.

With proceeds benefiting the Salisbury Beach Historic Carousel, the SeaFestival of Trees has welcomed more than 250,000 visitors over the years and raised over $1 million to help preserve this cultural icon. “It’s a joyful event where families can experience the season’s wonder while supporting our historic carousel,” said Kathy Aiello, managing director of the festival.

What to Expect at the SeaFestival of Trees:

Dazzling Tree Display
- More than 145 creative, themed trees donated by local businesses and families. Showcase Area trees feature prizes valued at $1,000 or more — including one with a $2,000 cash prize — all raffled off to lucky winners.
Giant Sand Sculpture
- A 10-foot-tall, 8,000-pound “Christmas at the North Pole” sculpture by master sand artist Greg Grady.
Indoor Skating Rink
- No winter coats needed! The synthetic Seaside Ice rink offers free skating, with rentals available for all ages.
Santa’s Workshop, Candy Cane Forest, and Santa’s Sleigh
- Walk through Candy Cane Forest, peek inside Santa’s toy shop, visit the Toy Testing Station, and take photos in Santa’s life-sized sleigh.
Santa & Holiday Characters
- Meet Santa, The Grinch, and the Snow Queen, with themed photo backdrops inspired by Whoville and the Ice Palace.

Special Events & Theme Nights:

Spirits of Christmas Gala & Tree Lighting | Nov. 21, 6–9PM
- Kick off the season with cocktails, live music, tree awards, and the first look at this year’s displays.
Holiday Dance Shows | Nov. 23, 11:30AM–4PM
- Regional studios perform festive routines on the Blue Ocean Music Hall stage.
Triton Night | Nov. 25, 5–8PM
- Half-price admission for Salisbury, Byfield, Newbury, and Rowley residents.
Elf Day | Nov. 30, 12–2PM
- Join Buddy the Elf for snowflake-making and Christmas cheer.
Sippin’ Santa Girls Night Out | Dec. 3, 5–8PM
- Sip and shop evening with complimentary holiday cocktail sampling, coastal artisans, 92.5 The River Radio’s prize wheel, and a festive scavenger hunt.
SantaCon vs. Ugly Sweater Night | Dec. 4, 5–8PM
- Santa-inspired attire and festive ugly sweaters dress code encouraged. Costume parade, karaoke, prizes, and a jolly night of fun for families and friends.
Blades the Bruin Night | Dec. 5, 5–8PM
- Skate with Blades the Bruin and enter to win Bruins tickets and gear.
Santa & The Grinch Brunch | Dec. 6 + 7, 10AM–Noon
- Interactive holiday brunch with music, activities, photos, and games. Ticketed event.
Polar Express Pajama Party | Dec. 14, 10:30AM–Noon
- Cocoa, story time, North Pole Bingo, and visits from Santa and the conductor. Ticketed event.

Festival Hours & Admission

Admission: $10; children 5 and under, $5.
Location: Blue Ocean Event Center, Salisbury, MA.
Hours: Open weekends November 23-December 8, with additional hours on November 26 & December 5. Full schedule at SeaFestivalOfTrees.com or call the hotline at 978-462-2512.

For more information on special events, character appearance schedules, and ticketing, please visit SeaFestivalOfTrees.com.

About Salisbury Beach Historic Carousel
A preserved 1909 Looff-Mangels carousel, a rare treasure in historic preservation, housed on Salisbury Beach and open year-round.

About Blue Ocean Event Center
A state-of-the-art event venue on the Atlantic, hosting corporate, wedding, and social events with stunning oceanfront views.

SEA FESTIVAL OF TREES HOURS (subject to change)