Witch City Broom Making Workshop in Salem

A Salem witch’s broom is more than a shop-bought prop: in this workshop, you choose the handle, broomcorn, colors, ribbons, and charms, then make a one-of-a-kind keepsake with help from a local instructor. You leave with a piece you designed yourself, not just another souvenir to tuck in a drawer.

I like two things in particular: you get real choices in how your broom looks, and the small group, capped at 12, gives the instructors room to help when you need it. The class also offers a welcome pause from Salem’s town-center sightseeing, with a creative activity to do rather than another display to view.

One practical caution: the advertised duration is about 90 minutes, but the workshop can take longer if the group needs extra time. And you meet at 32 Derby Square, not at the company’s retail store on Essex Street, so check the address before setting out.

The details that matter

• You make the whole souvenir your own: Choose a broom handle, broomcorn, adornments, and color accents.
• Instructors help at each stage: You’ll get guidance on wrapping the broom and attaching charms and other decorations.
• The group is small: The maximum is 12, which can make it easier to ask for help or take your time.
• Plan for more than a quick stop: The workshop is about 90 minutes, but allow extra time in case the session runs long.
• The meeting spot is easy to confuse: Head to 32 Derby Square, not the Essex Street retail shop.
• Your finished broom may be awkward to transport: It can be wrapped for carrying, but shipping isn’t included.

Choosing materials, then making the broom

The workshop begins with the fun part: deciding what your broom should look like. You choose a handle and broomcorn, then select from decorative options such as ribbons, charms, and colorful materials. The choices let you make something that suits your taste, from a boldly witchy design to a more seasonal or decorative one.

That freedom is part of the appeal. You are not all following a fixed template to produce matching brooms. You can make the piece feel personal, and instructors are there to offer help if you get stuck or want a second opinion. Past participants have particularly appreciated their patient, friendly approach. Names mentioned include Shelly, Ashley, Hilary, Beth, Stacy, Justin, and Amy, though the instructor for your session may be someone else.

Once you have your materials, the instructor shows you how to wrap the broom and attach your chosen charms and other elements. The activity description connects these decorations with traditional intentions such as protection, good luck, and warding off unwanted spells. You can treat that as part of the Salem witchcraft theme, or simply choose details because you like the way they look.

This is a hands-on craft, but you do not need to arrive with a design already mapped out. Take a moment to look over your options before committing. If you have a particular color or style in mind, it may help to start there, then build the rest of your design around it.

A small class with room to ask for help

With no more than 12 participants, the class has a more personal feel than a large demonstration. You are making your own broom, so individual help matters: wrapping and attaching decorations can take a little trial and error, and instructors can step in when something needs adjusting.

The pace is another strength. You are not expected to race through the project, and the instructors can guide you without taking over your design. That makes the workshop a good fit for solo participants, couples, friends, and families who want to make something together. Creative teens have also taken part with instructor support.

The atmosphere is intended to be relaxed, and the limited waiting area is part of that setup. It has space for only one or two people, and children cannot wait there unattended. If you are attending with children, plan for them to take part in the activity rather than sit elsewhere while you craft. That rule may feel restrictive, but it helps keep the workshop space calm for the people making their brooms.

How long to set aside

The stated duration is approximately 90 minutes. That is a useful estimate, not a firm promise: the full process includes choosing materials, making the broom, and wrapping the finished piece, and one session took close to two and a half hours.

If you have a timed attraction, dinner reservation, or train to catch, do not schedule it immediately afterward. A little breathing room will let you choose your decorations without watching the clock. This is a craft workshop, not a quick photo stop, and the finishing time may depend on how quickly the group makes its choices and completes the work.

The workshop ends back at its meeting point, 32 Derby Square. The location is near public transportation, and one person found the meeting place difficult to identify at first. Use the exact address rather than assuming the retail shop on Essex Street is the right destination.

Is $134.70 worth it?

At $134.70 per person, this is not a bargain-basement craft class. The value depends on whether you want the activity as well as the finished object. The price covers a guided, hands-on session and the materials needed to choose a handle, broomcorn, adornments, and color accents. Gratuity is not included.

If you are only looking for the cheapest Salem souvenir, you can spend much less in a shop. But the workshop gives you time to make a custom piece and learn how to wrap and decorate it, with an instructor available to help. You are paying for the process, the choices, and a finished broom tied to your own visit.

The price also makes more sense if you enjoy making things or want a shared activity with family or friends. If crafting holds little appeal, the broom itself may not justify the cost. For people who like a personal keepsake, though, the result can feel more meaningful than a mass-produced item.

One practical cost to think about is getting the broom home. The workshop does not include shipping. A participant reported being quoted almost $200 by UPS for packaging and shipping, so don’t assume mailing it will be inexpensive. If you are flying or traveling light, consider how you will carry the finished broom before booking. The workshop may wrap it for easier carrying, but that is not the same as shipping it.

Getting the most from the experience

Arrive at the right address and give yourself enough time to settle in. Since the meeting point is not the Essex Street retail store, checking the map before leaving your hotel or another attraction can save an unnecessary detour.

Think about what you might like to make, but keep your design flexible until you see the materials. The workshop offers a range of colors and decorative pieces, and part of the fun is seeing what combinations appeal to you. If you are making brooms with a group, you could decide on a shared theme or let everyone go in a different direction.

Do not be shy about asking for help. The activity is designed to be guided, and instructors can assist with the wrapping and decorations. At the same time, the finished broom is yours to shape, so speak up if you want a particular look or need help figuring out how to attach an adornment.

If your schedule is tight, ask about the expected finish time before you begin. The 90-minute estimate is approximate, and a slower session can take considerably longer. That extra time may be welcome if you are enjoying the project, but it matters if your day is planned down to the minute.

Who should book this Salem workshop?

I would put this near the top of the list for anyone who wants an activity that feels distinctly connected to Salem and produces something to take home. It suits crafty people, witchcraft enthusiasts, friends on a Salem outing, and families with older children or teens who enjoy hands-on projects. Solo participants can join too.

It is also a good option when you want a change of pace from walking around town. Instead of buying a souvenir and moving on, you spend part of your visit making one. The small group and helpful instruction make that a more personal experience, even if you come without a companion.

I would skip it if your main goal is a low-cost activity, if you do not enjoy crafting, or if you have very little flexibility in your schedule. Think about how you will transport a broom as well, especially if you are flying home. If making a personal Salem keepsake sounds worth the time and price, this workshop is a strong choice. Book it with a generous gap before your next commitment, and you’ll have room to enjoy the process.

FAQ

Where does the workshop meet?

Meet at 32 Derby Square, Salem, MA 01970. The workshop is not at the retail store on Essex Street.

How long does the workshop last?

The approximate duration is one hour and 30 minutes. Allow extra time, since a session can run longer.

What is included in the price?

You can choose a broom handle, broomcorn, adornments, and color accents, then craft your own broom. Gratuity is not included.

How much does the workshop cost?

The listed price is $134.70 per person.

How many people can join?

The maximum group size is 12 participants.

What language is the workshop offered in?

The workshop is offered in English.

Does the workshop end at the meeting point?

Yes. The activity ends back at 32 Derby Square.

Is the workshop near public transportation?

Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation.

Can children wait nearby if they are not taking part?

The waiting area has limited seating for one or two people, and children cannot be left there unattended.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.