Historic hauntings and fantastic frights for all ages
This October, Virginia is launching a slew of eerie events and packages to celebrate the magic and mystery of Halloween. With over 400 years of history, spanning from Colonial America to the Civil War, the state is home to a number of mystical sites where the supernatural reside.
From ghostly tours in haunted plantations and moonlit graveyards trails, to spirited war-time love stories and spine-chilling tales, visitors are guaranteed to be spooked in Virginia. With more listings on the National Register of Haunted Places than any other state, Virginia is the ideal destination for an authentic Halloween experience. Visitors can view all of Virginia’s Halloween offerings at www.virginia.org/halloween or choose from the following:
Sleeping With Ghosts – Lynchburg, VA
Those fascinated by paranormal powers can spend the night in one of The Carriage House Inn’s haunted guestrooms when booking the property’s Ghost Package. As part of the experience, guests receive a copy of the July 2009 investigation transcript conducted by Afterlife Investigations, which includes ghostly voice recordings in several of the Inn’s rooms. Those booking in October may also partake in a candlelit tour of Old City Cemetery or a Ghost Walk. Total cost for the Ghost Package is determined by the number of nights and room selected. Package rates begin at $190 per night, valid through December 31, 2010. Visit www.lynchburgbandb.com for more information.
Ghostly Tales and a Graveyard Trail – Charles City, VA
Courageous souls visiting the Shirley Plantation from October 25-31 are invited to learn about “Aunt Pratt,” the legendary ghost of the Hill Carter family. Guests will tour through the 17th century house where “Aunt Pratt” once lived to hear tales of mystical figures that still linger. The spooky festivities continue on Halloween, when “Aunt Pratt” will lead guests on a graveyard tour to share mourning customs and other Hill Carter family secrets. Admission costs $11 for adults and $7.50 for children between six and 18 years old. Visit www.shirleyplantation.com for more information.
Woodlawn’s Haunted History – Alexandria, VA
Originally part of George Washington’s Mount Vernon home, Woodlawn is considered to be one of Virginia’s most haunted plantations. The property’s renowned tours offer visitors the chance to hear tales of first-hand encounters with its ghostly inhabitants. Tours take place October 30 and 31 from 6:00-8:40PM and will begin every 20 minutes. Admission costs $15 per person. Visit www.woodlawn1805.org for more information.
Air & Scare Halloween – Chantilly, VA
The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center will be home to the Fifth annual Air & Scare event on October 24. From 2:00-8:00 PM, visitors of all ages can experience the spooky side of aviation and space with activities including: the Alien Blood Boil station, Witch Story Times, Creepy Crawly Robots and a Halloween tattoo station. Guests are invited to arrive in their best Halloween attire as the day will kick-off with a Costume Parade, followed by trick-or-treating at multiple candy stations. Admission is free and parking costs $15. Visit www.nasm.si.edu/udvarhazy.com for more information.
A “Spirited Evening” at the Graffiti House – Brandy Station, VA
Saturday, October 24, 2009 marks the Brandy Station Foundation’s third annual “Spirited Evening” at The Graffiti House. Located on the Brandy Station Battlefield where some of the bloodiest Civil War battles took place, the Graffiti House served as a hospital, headquarters and shelter for many soldiers. From 6:30-9:00PM visitors of all ages can sip warm apple cider around an inviting bonfire to hear ghost stories from the Civil War era. The spooky evening will continue as Virginia Paranormal Investigators who examined the property for supernatural activity recount their findings. Admission is free. Visit www.brandystationfoundation.com for more information.
Haunted Tours at Edgewood Plantation – Charles City, VA
The site of a tragic Civil War love story, Edgewood Plantation houses the spirit of Lizzie Rowland. After carving her name in the upstairs bedroom window while waiting for her husband to return from war, Lizzie died of a broken heart. Many claim she still awaits her husband at the window. Tours and special packages available through December 31, 2009. Prices vary. Visit www.edgewoodplantation.com for more information.
Find Your Spirit In Radford – Radford, VA
Halloween fans will visit some of Radford’s most historic homes to mingle with the town’s famed spirits. Spooky stops include Arnheim, home to the town’s namesake, Dr. John Blair Radford, as well as the residence of General Gabriel Wharton. All tours depart from the Glencoe Museum once night falls. Ghost tours can be reserved for October 30 or 31 and tickets cost $5 per person. Visit www.visitradford.com for more information.
Visit www.Virginia.org to find out more about these ghostly packages and additional Halloween events.
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