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Spirits of Wake Forest: A Ghost Walk Through History


  • Jim and Lori Hill - Realtors, Brokered by lpt Realty 3825 Wild Meadow Lane Wake Forest, NC, 27587 United States (map)

As autumn paints its palette over Downtown Wake Forest, there’s an event that invites people to walk through time—through stories, through shadows, through the “restless spirits” of the past. Spirits of Wake Forest is a ghost walk organized by Wake Forest Downtown, Inc. in partnership with Firebox Theatre Company. It combines history, folklore, drama, and the natural intrigue we all carry for the unknown.


Event info: https://www.wakeforestnc.gov/meetings-events/spirits-wake-forest

What It Is


A guided walking tour in Historic Downtown Wake Forest, primarily along South White Street, starting at Wake Forest Town Hall (301 S. Brooks St).


Hosted by Firebox Theatre Company and Wake Forest Downtown, Inc.


The stories include folklore, tragic train wrecks, murders, haunted business spaces, and other eerie tales drawn from Wake Forest’s long local history.


Source: https://triangleonthecheap.com/spirits-of-wake-forest/


When & How It Works


Dates: September 25 through October 30, 2025.


Tour times:

Thursdays & Fridays: 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Saturdays: additional tours at 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.


Duration: About 1 hour 15 minutes per tour.

Price: $20 per person.


Tickets go on sale Thursday, September 4, 2025, at noon. They tend to sell out. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.


Source: https://www.wakeforestnc.gov/news/spirits-wake-forest-ghost-walks-return-downtown-wake-forest-september-25-october-30-tickets-go


Things to Know Before You Go


Tours happen rain or shine; only severe weather affecting safety will cancel.

Each tour has a maximum of 20 people.


Recommended for ages 8 and up. Younger children may attend at parental discretion. All under-17s must be with an adult.


Pets should stay home.


Event details: https://www.wakeforestnc.gov/meetings-events/spirits-wake-forest


Why It’s More Than Just a Ghost Tour


Community & Storytelling – It preserves and shares local history, including folklore and mysteries that often go untold.


Arts & Performance – Firebox Theatre actors dramatize the stories, making it a theatrical experience.


Downtown Vitality – Proceeds support Wake Forest Downtown, Inc., which works to strengthen local businesses and community life.


Seasonal Appeal – Perfect for autumn evenings leading up to Halloween.


More background: https://www.discoverwakeforest.org/news-1/2024/halloween-happenings-spirits-of-wake-forest-tour-tells-tales-of-paranormal-activity


Sample of What You Might Experience

Stories about historic train wrecks in Wake Forest.


Murders, mysterious deaths, arson, and haunted businesses.


Stops along old downtown routes with dramatic retellings of local lore.


Sources:

https://triangleonthecheap.com/spirits-of-wake-forest/


https://www.discoverwakeforest.org/news-1/2024/halloween-happenings-spirits-of-wake-forest-tour-tells-tales-of-paranormal-activity


Tips for Attending


Buy tickets early. They sell out quickly.


Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.


Arrive a little early. Tours begin promptly at Town Hall.


Bring a light jacket or small flashlight if desired.


Parents: gauge whether your children are ready for ghost stories and nighttime walking.


What Makes It Special

What makes Spirits of Wake Forest stand out is how it combines local history with folklore and theatre. You’re not just hearing stories—you’re standing on the very streets where those stories took place. The mix of history, atmosphere, and performance makes it an experience that connects people to the town in a unique way.


Who It Might Appeal To

History lovers and heritage enthusiasts


Fans of theatre and live storytelling


Families looking for something seasonal and fun


Out-of-town visitors exploring Wake Forest


Anyone intrigued by folklore, mystery, or haunted tales