100 Years @ the Hawthorne Hotel

July 23, 2025 - Walking through the ornate lobby of the Hawthorne Hotel on its 100th anniversary felt like stepping back in time. The polished wood paneling, grand chandeliers, and rich carpets seemed to glow with history, while guests in elegant 1920s attire mingled as if they’d just arrived for the hotel’s original opening night. Flapper dresses shimmered, bowler hats tipped politely, and the soft hum of conversation mixed with the notes of a live jazz trio drifting from the lounge. I made my way to the bar, where I was handed a perfectly chilled mint julep. As I sipped, the sweet aroma of fresh mint and bourbon mingled with the energy of the crowd, and I felt both the weight of the hotel’s century-long legacy and the magic of living in a moment designed to honor it.

After enjoying my refreshing cocktail, I ventured outside to Hawthorne Blvd to enjoy an open‑air block party where laughter mingled with live music drifting into the summer evening air. Classic cars gleamed under the streetlights, their polished curves drawing nostalgic smiles from onlookers as food trucks and vendors lined the sidewalks, offering treats and treasures to guests of all ages.

Events like this remind us that Salem’s history stretches far beyond its famous witch trials, offering rich stories of architecture, commerce, and community. Celebrations like the Hawthorne Hotel’s centennial highlight the city’s maritime heritage, Gilded Age elegance, and enduring role as a vibrant cultural hub. The summer is the perfect time to explore this beautiful city on the water.