Looking for a Halloween story with a Southern twist? Explore Halloween ghost stories, legends and folklore from across the American South. From haunted pumpkin patches and mysterious trick-or-treaters to jack-o’-lantern lore and things that go bump in the October night, these tales are made for reading—or listening to—after dark.

Some are traditional ghost stories and legends; others are original tales set on Halloween night. Many include audio storytelling, so you can read them yourself—or turn down the lights and listen.

Start with the strange legend behind the jack-o’-lantern, visit Patin’s haunted pumpkin patch, or discover more Southern Halloween stories below.