The Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library is set to host its eighth annual Paranormal Fest on Saturday, October 18, transforming the building into a hub of supernatural exploration and eerie fun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

This year’s event, themed “Waning Moon,” promises a full day of activities for all ages, including panels, hands-on crafts, a spooky escape room and a family-friendly film marathon. 

“It’s a full day of spine-tingling fun for all ages,” said Kim Ventrella, librarian and event organizer. “Whether you're a budding cryptozoologist, a future ghost hunter or just curious about the paranormal, we have something for everyone to explore at Paranormal Fest.” 

Now in its eighth year, Paranormal Fest has become a popular fall tradition, attracting families, paranormal enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, blending eerie entertainment with interactive, educational experiences designed to spark the imagination. 

One of the day’s highlights is the Vendor Fair, held in the library’s atrium from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., where guests can browse a selection of booths featuring local handmade oddities, metaphysical supplies, tarot readings and ghost-hunting gear. 

“Downstairs, we’ll have a mini vendor fair where visitors can stock up on spooky gifts and chat with local paranormal groups,” Ventrella said. “It’s a great chance to connect with the community and maybe even uncover a few ghost stories.” 

Upstairs, the Friends Room on the fourth floor will host an all-day paranormal craft room, with projects for both children and adults. 

“If you’re feeling crafty, we’ve got projects for everyone…creepy, cute, and everything in between,” said Ventrella. 

The fourth floor auditorium will also feature the Family Fright Movie Marathon, screening a series of eerie but age-appropriate films throughout the day. This year’s lineup includes: 

• MirrorMask (1 hr 45 min) 

• The Dark Crystal (1 hr 35 min) 

• The House at the End of the Street (1 hr 45 min) 

• Hungry Ghost Diner (1 hr 56 min) 

For the more adventurous, the library will offer a Waning Moon-themed escape room in Classroom G. Sessions begin at 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The interactive experience challenges participants to unlock a mystery tied to the supernatural theme. 

Admission is free and open to the public. Costumes are welcome and encouraged, though not required. 

Whether you’re a ghost hunter, fantasy fan, curious kid, or lover of the unexplained, Paranormal Fest: Waning Moon is sure to cast a spell on all who attend. 

For more information, visit the Metropolitan Library System website or follow the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library on social media. 

More Paranormal Fest Activities: 

• Native Oklahoma Bigfood Research Organization (NORBO) - 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in Classroom EF: Learn about the search for Bigfoot in Oklahoma, hear stories and purported evidence from volunteer researchers, and share local encounters. 

• Spooky Storytime - 11:00 to 11:45 a.m. in Classroom CD: Younger guests can settle in for a not-too-scary storytelling session featuring tales of ghosts, monsters, and magical mischief. 

• Local Hauntings with Jeff Provine - 11 a.m. to noon in Classroom AB: Join Oklahoma ghost story expert Jeff Provine, author of the Haunted Oklahoma series, for chilling tales of the state’s most haunted legends. 

• Dream Science – Noon to 1 p.m. in Classroom CD: Explore the science of dreams with the School of Metaphysics. 

• Red Dirt Cryptids – 1-2 p.m. in Classroom EF: Learn about cryptids in your area. 

• Teaching the Tarot - 2 to 3 p.m. in Classroom AB: Curious about divination? This beginner-friendly workshop covers the basics of tarot symbolism, structure, and interpretation. 

• Ghost hunting – 3-4 p.m. in Classroom CD:Join Investigating Oklahoma’s Paranormal (IOKP) to hear ghost stories, see ghost-hunting tools in action, and learn the basics of paranormal investigation. 

For more details, visit metrolibrary.org.