Back for its third chilling chapter, Winter Hauntings returns in January 2026 with another unforgettable evening of ghost stories, eerie ambiance, and literary celebration.
Hosted by the team behind EPIC Carteret and Planck Length Publishing, this annual favorite features:
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Dramatic readings of the top three winning stories from the 2026 Winter Hauntings Ghost Story Contest, performed by talented local actors from Carteret Community Theatre.
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A professionally-designed keepsake program with the top five ghost stories submitted.
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A special reprise of “Abigail Rumbarrel,” Carteret County’s most famous ghost, written by Autumn Ware and performed live on stage by a young local actress.
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A return of the Haunted Halftime Act, featuring original ghostlore-inspired ballads by Emily and John Carter (yes, that John—Smokin’ Hot Love Biscuit himself).
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And the crowd-favorite Skull-astic Book Fair, where readers can meet local authors, artists, and booksellers before the storytelling begins.
This year’s event is shaping up to be the most immersive yet, and we’re (hopefully!) heading home to the newly restored Carteret Community Theatre in downtown Morehead City—a milestone in the Ovation Campaign’s effort to bring live performance back to the heart of the Crystal Coast.
Want to stay updated, see highlights from past events, or learn more about the contest and our performers? Visit our Winter Hauntings page for photos, stories, and spooky fun.
