Fall is a magical time to indulge in storytelling. The crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cozy evenings create the perfect backdrop for sharing your favorite tales. Whether you’re gathering with friends or diving into your favorite books or podcasts, here are three creative ways to celebrate storytelling this spooky season:
+ Host a Halloween Movie Marathon: “You’re in for a Chill”
What’s better than a cozy movie marathon with an eerie twist? Invite a small group of friends over for a night of classic spooky season films, tasty treats, and plenty of laughs. The theme: “You’re in for a Chill” – a night of bites, boo(ze), and thrilling movie delights.
Create a list of everyone’s favorite Halloween flicks—classics like Disney’s Halloweentown and Hocus Pocus are sure to set the mood. Provide a spread of candy, finger foods, and festive drinks to keep everyone fueled for the movie marathon. To add to the fun, encourage costumes, onesies, or pajamas to amp up the cozy (and spooky) vibes.
In between films, break out ghoulish board games or card games that will keep the party lively. It’s the perfect mix of spine-tingling fun and camaraderie.
+ Spooky Storytime Around the Fire Pit
For a more intimate celebration of storytelling, gather your friends around the fire pit for a night of eerie tales. Bring out your bluetooth speaker and set the mood with chilling podcasts. Some crowd favorites include Lore, Sword & Scale, and Chattanooga’s very own Crime Over Wine. The crackling fire and haunting tales will transport everyone into a world of suspense and mystery.
When you’re ready for a break from the podcasts, let your guests take center stage by sharing their own scary stories. Whether they’re reciting urban legends or spinning their own yarns, it’s sure to spark creativity and maybe a few chills. Don’t forget to have a s’mores kit on hand – because every spooky night around the fire deserves a gooey treat!
+ Spooky Season Book Club
Combine your love for books and the supernatural with a spooky season book club. Choose a haunted read to discuss with your friends, whether it’s a gothic classic, a psychological thriller, or a modern ghost story. As you dive into chilling plots, set the mood with a hauntingly delicious charcuterie board and serve “ink drinks” (dark and moody cocktails) to match the eerie theme.
Encourage guests to bring their favorite spooky reads and share their most terrifying recommendations. For a fun twist, put on a movie adaptation of one of your books in the background—Practical Magic is always a great choice. You’ll be surrounded by spooky vibes as you savor both stories and snacks.
Protip: Check out my new book, Mud Water Will Rise, for local Chattanooga legends, haunts, and lore! My book officially hits the shelves on Wednesday, October 23rd.
What are your favorite ways to celebrate spooky seasons stories? Share below and let’s chatt!
