Dead Man’s Island, in Tacoma’s Commencement Bay, has a dark and fascinating history that many have forgotten. It was once a simple sandbar just offshore. But over time, it became a burial site for those who fell through the cracks of society—sailors lost at sea, victims of epidemics, and criminals without families. The island…
Scarecrows have been around for centuries. They started as simple guardians of the harvest, built to scare off birds and pests. In Europe, their origins go back to ancient times. Pagan rituals, agricultural traditions—these scarecrows were more than just stuffed figures. They had a deeper meaning.
Samhain, the precursor to Halloween, marked a time when the boundary between the living and spirit worlds was thin. The Celts lit candles and bonfires to protect their families from wandering spirits. They believed flickering candlelight would keep harmful entities away and invite positive energy to stay. Get tips on using candle magic after…
Halloween is packed with traditions. But did you know a lot of old ones have disappeared over the years? Some of these customs deserve a comeback. Here are 5 long-lost Halloween traditions that could make your next Halloween even spookier (and fun).
On October 19th, Ghostly Activities hung out in Tacoma and explored 2 iconic buildings, Urban Grace Church and Blackwell Mansion. See our photo galleries after the jump.
Old Tacoma City Hall served as a municipal hub for over six decades. Over time, the building gained a haunted reputation, with tales of shadowy figures, mysterious footsteps, and, most famously, the ghostly janitor. Get the haunted scoop after the jump.
Ever get the feeling that something’s just… off? Like maybe someone’s giving you the side-eye, and now you’re having the worst week of your life? Well, maybe, just maybe, you’re cursed. In American folk tradition, hexes and curses are powerful tools that can supposedly bring a whole world of trouble down on someone. They’re…
In the early 20th century, San Francisco faced an unusual dilemma. With a booming population and limited space, the city’s leaders had to make a difficult choice: should they prioritize the living or continue to house the dead? Ultimately, they chose to ban new cemeteries and relocate existing ones outside city limits. But this…
Ghost hunting has become really popular today. TV shows, books, and online videos have made it even more famous. Many people think ghost hunting is scientific because of all the gadgets they use. But if you look closer, it’s more about storytelling than science. Ghost hunting is like a modern kind of folklore. It’s…
Ojai, California, is known for its beautiful mountain views, peaceful valleys, and scenic hiking trails. But hidden in these serene landscapes lurks a legend as chilling as the ashes left after a fire: the legend of Char-Man. For decades, locals and thrill-seekers alike have passed down stories of this burned specter, warning all who…