Here's what it's like to live in Salem, Mass., during the Halloween tourism season

Salem, Massachusetts, transforms into a bustling hub of Halloween festivities, drawing thousands of visitors eager to experience its spooky heritage tied to the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Megan Johnson's piece reveals the dual reality of residents who balance their daily lives with the eerie decorations and throngs of costumed tourists. This influx not only boosts local businesses but also stirs a mix of pride and frustration among locals, who are keenly aware of their town's dark past. The Halloween season underscores Salem's unique position as both a historical landmark and a modern-day tourist attraction.