The air is turning crisp, the shadows are lengthening and the historic stories of downtown Fuquay-Varina are circulating once again. Spooky season has begun to settle over our town, along with rumors. Whispered rumors consisting of spooky, well-researched tales of ghosts, cryptids, true crime and other lore, told by reliable guides, will return this fall with the third year of the Fuquay-Varina Ghost Tours.
If you’re planning to explore the documented history and local lore of our spectral residents, this is your complete guide of what to expect, from the experts leading the way to where to park your car. Get ready to explore the past as I walk you through the event that explores what has made our town have such a unique reputation in the South: a tradition of both history and haunting.
The Fuquay-Varina Ghost Tours, happening October 3-5, October 10-12 and concluding on October 24-26, are brought to life by Sisterhood of Spirits LLC, a collective of experienced folklorists, creators and performers. They aren’t just looking for a jumpscare, they are on a mission to preserve and share local Southern history.
This event takes attendees deep into documented history and paranormal investigations. Led by CEO Liz Pardue and inspired by 20th-century folklore writer Nancy Roberts, the Sisterhood has spent over 30 years collecting the legends and lore of the Old North State.
“Fuquay-Varina has more ghost stories than any other small town in the South and we’re excited to share them,” said Pardue.
The ghost tours offer a distinctive historical storytelling experience, setting them apart from traditional haunted houses. The focus is on documented, chilling narratives of local lore, with only small thrills appearing throughout the tour. The entire experience is designed to be informative and creepy.
The journey begins at Fainting Goat Brewing Co at 330 S. Main Street, where groups will meet their guides. The route is a manageable walk of less than a mile, winding through the Downtown Historic District. Despite the short distance, the one-hour journey is packed with more than a dozen stories, with the group stopping at ten different locations. These stops are chosen to be right in front of actual buildings believed to be linked to local crime and lore, or are otherwise considered ‘haunted.’
But before embarking on this exploration, there are several practical details to note. Admission costs $25 per person, and tickets are available at their website fvghosts.com. Given that this is a walking tour, participants should come prepared with good walking shoes and comfortable attire. Due to the mature nature of some of the stories, parental discretion is advised for those ages 16 or younger. It’s important to remember that this is a rain or shine event, and no refunds or exchanges will be given.
Parking is simplified as free parking is available in the downtown area. Only service animals are permitted. Patrons should feel good knowing that 10% of all profits are donated to the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association which supports local businesses.
For more information, check their socials @fuquayghosts or their website.
