Providence’s North Burial Ground Comes Alive This Halloween Season

It’s spooky season in the Creative Capital, and Providence is getting ready to celebrate in style. This October, the historic North Burial Ground transforms once again into a hub of haunted happenings, blending history, music, and a touch of the supernatural across a month of Halloween events.

Mayor Brett Smiley announced the return of the annual programming this week, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience one of the city’s most atmospheric settings. “These events at North Burial Ground give us a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Providence while creating opportunities for us to come together, learn something interesting, and enjoy our public spaces in new ways,” said Mayor Smiley.

The lineup includes the beloved Annual Halloween Ghost Tour on Saturday, October 25, where visitors can meet the spirits of Providence’s past as professional actors bring notable residents back to life. At the center of the evening is writer and spiritualist Sarah Helen Whitman, once engaged to Edgar Allan Poe, who will host guests in her séance tent to share stories of spirits and her remarkable life. The event is free, though reservations are required.

For those who prefer music to mysticism, the Mausoleum Hill Sessions return on Sunday, October 19, with a rain date of October 26. Guests can enjoy an afternoon tour with Cemetery Director Annalisa Heppner, browse local artists’ work, and settle in for live performances by Olivia Dolphin, Keith McCurdy of Vudu Sister, Silver Rein, Black Season Witch, Savoir Faire, Allysen Callery, and Space Cowboy Newt. Food and drink will be available from Rebel’s Rations, Pizza Envy, and LongLive Beerworks, with proceeds supporting cemetery programming.

All month long, visitors can also take part in the Halloween Self-Guided Tour, themed “Decay,” which explores stories of transformation and resilience throughout the cemetery’s 110-acre landscape.

“North Burial Ground is one of Providence’s most important historic landscapes, and these programs highlight its role as both a place of remembrance and a place for community life,” said Providence Parks Superintendent Wendy Nilsson. For reservations and full event details, visit Providence.Gov.

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