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National Ghost Hunting Day

Grab your flashlights! National Ghost Hunting Day beckons brave souls to uncover the mysteries lurking in the shadows. Are you ready?

Saturday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATELast Saturday in September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFun

SUBCATEGORYParanormal

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get your EVP recorders and infrared cameras ready because the last Saturday in September is National Ghost Hunting Day! Officially recognized in 2016, this paranormal holiday has quickly gained popularity amongst both serious ghost hunters and novelty seekers alike. Rooted in the age-old fascination with the unknown, this day unites thrill-seekers across the globe in a quest to connect with the beyond. Whether you're a seasoned investigator, a curious newbie, or just someone who loves a good ghost story, this day is your chance to potentially come face-to-face with the spectral world that may surround us. So come on, embrace the chill down your spine and join the spirit-chasing fun!

TIMELINE

National Ghost Hunting Day Timeline

Early Paranormal Interests

During the 19th century, the Western world's interest in spiritualism and the paranormal began to spike, leading to widespread séances and investigations into the afterlife.

Founding of the SPR

The Society for Psychical Research (SPR) was founded in London. It was the first society to conduct organised scholarly research into human experiences that challenge contemporary scientific models.

Ghost Hunting Gains Popularity

The release of Shirley Jackson's horror novel "The Haunting of Hill House" inspired a surge of interest in ghost hunting, invigorating public curiosity about the paranormal.

Television Joins the Hunt

The premiere of the television show "Ghost Hunters" introduced a wider audience to the methodologies and tools of ghost hunting, significantly boosting its popularity.

Rise of Ghost Hunting Equipment

Enhancements in technology led to the creation of devices like Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) recorders and infrared cameras, now commonly used in ghost hunting investigations.

First National Ghost Hunting Day

The last Saturday of September was officially recognized as National Ghost Hunting Day in the United States, encouraging both seasoned and novice enthusiasts to participate in ghost hunting activities.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Ghost Hunting Day

Arrange a ghost tour

Many cities and towns across the world are known for their haunted histories. Book a ghost tour in your local community or make a day-trip to a nearby town renowned for paranormal sightings. It's a great way to learn some history while feeding your fascination with the supernatural.

TRY

Try a séance

Gather some friends, light some candles, and try to communicate with the other side. Remember, respect is key when attempting to contact spirits. Always ensure you are doing this in a controlled and respectful manner.

READ

Read ghost stories or watch scary movies

Dive into some classic ghost tales or watch a creepy horror flick. Create the ultimate fright night experience with popcorn, blankets, and a suspense-filled creepy anthology or movie.

VISIT

Visit a haunted house

National Ghost Hunting Day is the perfect excuse to check out that notoriously haunted house in your neighborhood or city. Take some friends and see if you can find any spectral activity.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself on local lore

Spend the day researching local ghost stories and legends. Local libraries, elderly neighbors, and online archives can be great resources for spooky folklore in your area. You might uncover a chilling tale right in your own backyard!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Ghost Hunting Day

Explores local history and lore

Many haunted places come with rich history and folklore. National Ghost Hunting Day encourages us to learn more about these stories and understand our local history better. It's a fun and unique way to appreciate the past and the tales that have been passed down through generations!

A thrill-seeking adventure

National Ghost Hunting Day gives us an excuse to tap into our adventurous side. There's something incredibly thrilling about exploring notoriously haunted locations, and that adrenaline rush is a significant reason why we love this day so much!

Delves into the unknown

The paranormal fascinates many of us, and National Ghost Hunting Day provides an opportunity to explore these mysteries first hand. This day allows us to step out of our normal routines and dive into the world of the unknown, which can be both intriguing and exciting.