For the Thrill Seekers-South County has a storied history of the paranormal. Prepare to be spooked with stories, sightings, and the history of our ghosts.
Vampires in Exeter
Mercy Brown
When nineteen-year-old Mercy Brown died in 1892 from tuberculosis, it seemed like another rung in a stream of awful luck for the Brown family, who had already lost their mother and eldest child. But when her younger brother, Edwin, seemed destined for the same fate, their father allowed a local doctor to exhume the bodies in search of a cure. The others were found in normal states of decomposition while Mercy, whose body had originally been stored in an above-ground vault because the ground was too frozen for burial, seemed almost alive with blood still red in her heart and liver. Surely, they thought, supernatural powers were to blame: Mercy was a vampire, and she was the one behind her brother’s poor health. The natural solution was to cut out her heart, burn it, and feed its ashes to Edwin. Despite the precautions, the youngest Brown succumbed to the disease two months later. For a chance encounter with Mercy’s sad soul, which some say manifests in the form of a glowing blue orb, you can still visit the cemetery where her body was stored, buried, disturbed and re-laid to rest. Chestnut Hill Cemetery, 10 Rod Rd. (Route 2), Exeter.
Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour-Fall Frights
Hear tales of intrigue that are sure to spend a tingle up your spine. From deadly shipwrecks, cursed pirate treasure and actual witches, there’s no shortage of dark legends in Rhode Island’s hamlet on the Pawcatuck River. On this tour, you’ll hear tales of the Devil’s visit to Westerly, the spectral light formed by one of New England’s worst shipwrecks, tales of two souls trapped in one body and paranormal activity at Westerly’s known establishments. The 19th century industrial community roots run strong through a town whose importance was forged in the colonial era.
Sounds, Sightings and Smells of Ghosts at General Nathanael Greene’s Homestead
Rhode Island Monthly shares the history and stories of the numerous ghosts, and the sightings at this 1770 South County homestead.
One South County home will be featured in the running to be HGTV’s ‘Scariest House in America’
The Boston Globe reports on HGTV's new show “Scariest House in America”, and the South County homeowner in the running for scariest house. “When we moved into the house, it was immediately apparent that there was an energy in here, and we call him John,” the owner, Jeremy, says in the clip. “You can sort of feel his presence throughout the space.”
Spooky Stories and Cider Tasting
Enjoy a flight of 4 local hard cider and wine tastings at the Tapped Apple with complimentary truffles while the spooky storyteller regales guests on tales of local lore, legend, and paranormal activity in Westerly and throughout the New England region. Feel free to don your spooky best for a night filled with delicious food and terrifying tales.
For the Party People-Put on your costumes, eat, drink, dance and treat yourself to Halloween fun.
Monstrous Masquerave
Get ready to unleash your inner monster at the Monstrous Masquerade, the ultimate Halloween costume dance party at the UNITED! Hosted by 2PRIMO Studios, this spine-chilling event features three electrifying DJs spinning the hottest dance tracks – including dj’s Evrluv (from 8-9), Daisy Maize (9-10), and Plumpy (10-11). Whether you’re dressed to impress or to frighten, join the wildest crowd for a night of beats, booze, and unforgettable fun!
Food Truck Fright Night
Ti's the season for a night of mystical vibes, delicious food truck eats, and enchanting wine. Sip on a spooky sangria while enjoying a tarot card reading from the Queen of Bones, browse magical crystals from the Emerald Goddess, and indulge in tasty bites from your favorite local food trucks A Mano Pizza & La Costa. Hot chocolate and pumpkin decorating will be available for the kiddos, so bring the whole family and celebrate spooky season fun at Shepherds Run.
Spooky Views - A Halloween Stargazing Experience
Join the Frosty Drew Astronomers for a night under spooky Halloween skies with views of Saturn, Jupiter, and more in the telescopes. On the campus activities will celebrate astronomy and Halloween. Loads of candy will be available, and as the witching hour approaches the telescopes will point towards planetary nebulae, the ghostly remnants of dying stars, to celebrate the departure from the lighter half of the year and plunge into the darker half. The Observatory will be in full out Halloween mode with frightful sights, spooky sounds, and candy available for all who visit. Dig out that old costume, put on your mask and come out to the creepy woodlands of Ninigret Park to celebrate the Eve of All Hallows... If you dare...
Witch Please A Drag Spooktacular
Witch, Please is a spellbinding drag show where campy meets creepy hosted by Providence drag comedian, Nervous, and featuring Queens – Shakaren, Shania Taint, Bast, and Lucy Diamonds. Join a coven of fierce queens as they brew up a cauldron of laughs, glamor, and enchantment, turning the UNITED stage into a haunted runway of high heels, hexes, and hilarity. Get ready for a wickedly fun night where the magic is real, and the shade is spellbinding!
For the Kids
Character Breakfast with Hocus Pocus’ Sanderson Sisters
Enjoy a very special morning at Ocean House to welcome Winifred, Sarah and Mary Sanderson, the wickedly wonderful trio from the classic family film, Hocus Pocus ! Savor an enchanting breakfast buffet including delicious dishes like Jack-O’-Lantern pancakes with candy corn, Build-Your-Own Frankenstein waffles and much, much more–plus mimosas for the grownups! –as children delight in meet and greets with this popular trio. Book your reservation today.
The Best Local Halloween Displays of 2024 in RI, Mass.
As the nights grow longer and colder, boos and ghouls of all ages will delight in seeing these bewitching displays. From downright creepy to fun and festive, hear are the best local haunts, light shows and tableaus.
For the Four-legged Furbabies
Join the Ocean House or Weekapaug Inn for a “Howl-ween” celebration like no other at the Yappy Hour Bash—where Halloween fun goes to the dogs!
Co-hosted by Stand Up for Animals, this paws-itively delightful evening will feature specialty cocktails for dog owners and gourmet treats for their four-legged best friends. Dress up your pets in their spookiest costumes, as they’ll be the stars of the night!