If you're looking for a good goth, industrial, fetish, or alternative night in or near Salem, we've got you covered! We've created a list so you can plan your weeks accordingly and have the best night out! Be sure to visit the websites and social media pages so you know when the next events actually are! All the posters and flyers below are for previous events.
MONTHLY GOTH & ALTERNATIVE DANCE NIGHTS IN SALEM, MA
DARQ: Salem's Original Goth & Alternative Night
DARQ is the longest running goth night in Salem, MA with events going back almost 20 years. Hosted by VuduDJ, it takes place every 4th Saturday each month and most often inhabits Koto Asian Fusion, though it sometimes moves to other locations for special events. (Please note, the posters below are for previous events, you can find the upcoming listings on the DARQ Facebook page.)
HAVOQ: More Stomp, Less Swirl
If you're looking for a night with "more stomp and less swirl", DARQ also hosts a separate goth night at BitBar in Salem. HAVOQ is described as the night with a bit more industrial energy and futuristic vibes. It also happens to take place at the local barcade, so you can also play a little pinball and Street Fighter while you're there! (Please note, the posters below are for previous events, you can find the upcoming listings on the DARQ Facebook page.)
VANTA: Salem's Underground Goth and Alternative Night
VANTA was established a few years ago, and takes place the first Friday night each month. It's hosted deep below the surface of Salem at Hallowed Ground, a basement bar located down a dark alley. (Please note, the posters below are for previous events, you can find the upcoming listings on the VANTA Facebook or Instagram.)
VAMPIRE LOUNGE: Salem's Vamp Night hosted by VampFangs
Salem is home to an array of subculture communities, and the vampires have created their own club night! This night has been hosted at several different restaurants and bars in Salem and is known for its theme nights! (Please note, the posters below are for previous events, you can find the upcoming listings on the VampFangs Facebook page.)
DECADE: 80s NIGHT: It's not goth, but it might as well be!
It might not fall into exactly the goth and alternative category, but the 80's had such a lasting effect on the subculture as a whole, DECADE is worth a mention. It also happens to be one of the longest running club nights in Salem, pre-dating its current location at Koto Asian Fusion. (Please note, the posters below are for previous events, you can find the upcoming listings on the DECADE 80s NIGHT Facebook page.)
NOT IN SALEM, BUT CLOSE BY
MANRAY: Boston's Underground Dance Party
ManRay is a nightclub in Cambridge, MA. It was a long-running venue that didn't have a home for a few years but is back in full swing with an array of different goth, alternative, and fetish nights. You can view their calendar for upcoming events! (Please note: All of the posters below are for previous events, please check their Facebook or website for current listings!)
ManRay's Fetish Night is Fantasy Factory:
FAQ
Q. Which goth and alternative night do you recommend?
A. We've been to all of them and still put in an appearance often! DARQ has been running the longest, so it's the one we've been to the most. Vanta is the one we hit as a group most often. When we want to branch out, we head to ManRay for an over-the-top experience!
Q. Is there a goth club in Salem?
A. There is no goth club in Salem, in fact, it's a very small town that currently doesn't even have an actual nightclub. That doesn't mean you can't still find the experience here! Many of the bars and restaurants move tables to open up a dance floor on certain nights after dinner service has ended. There are lots of opportunities each month to get out and dance! That being said, we hope someday someone gets the memo and opens a goth nightclub here (pretty please?).
Q. Are the goth and alternative nights LGBTQIA+ friendly?
A. Absolutely! Most of the events outlined above are queer-friendly, always. Many of them also run pride and queer-specific events or nights, as well.
Q. Is there a gay bar in Salem?
A. There is currently no gay or lesbian bar in Salem, but you'll find that the spaces listed above are safe and welcoming until someone comes to town and opens a gay bar (please?).
Q. Is there a dress code for the goth nights in Salem?
A. Most often, the nights outlined above require at minimum all black attire or creative alternative fashion. Pay attention to what night you're going, if it's a theme night, you have a lot more outfit options!
