This October, the Hagood Mill Historic Site will once again echo with the laughter, chills, and wonder of Appalachian storytelling. On October 17 and 18, 2025, the annual Storytelling Festival & Liar’s Competition returns—this year featuring Friday Night Frights & Ghost Stories for a spook-tacular kickoff.

Friday Night Frights – October 17, 6:30 p.m.

The festival opens with an evening of spine-tingling tales hosted by the incomparable Johnny Thomas Fowler. Featured storytellers include Dr. Nancy Tolson, Amanda Lawrence, and Lona Bartlett, each weaving chilling ghost stories sure to thrill audiences of all ages. Admission is $10 for ages 10 and up.

Storytelling Festival – October 18, 10:00 a.m.

Saturday’s festivities bring a full day of storytelling magic, again hosted by Johnny Thomas Fowler, and headlined by Paul Strickland, known nationwide for his hilarious and heartfelt tales. Other featured tellers include Doug Elliott, Dr. Nancy Tolson, and Amanda Lawrence, alongside:

• Lib & Tara Porter’s Old Time Medicine Show – A blend of storytelling, mountain humor, and old-time charm.
• Doug Elliott’s Nature Tales – Folklore and natural history of the Southern Appalachians.
• The Legendary James Brothers – America’s oldest performing a cappella gospel group, sharing songs and stories of their remarkable 80-year journey.

Performances will be spread throughout the day at various historic locations on site, including the porch of the 1950s Hagood Mill country store.

The Liar’s Competition

A festival favorite, the Liar’s Competition challenges contestants to spin their tallest, funniest, most unbelievable stories. Eight participants will compete for the title of “Best Liar,” a $75 cash prize, and a guaranteed spot in the 2026 festival lineup.

• Registration: $5 in advance, $10 after noon on Friday, Oct. 17.
• To register, call Kim Clevenger at (864) 898-2936.

Festival Experience

Guests will enjoy much more than stories:

• Historic Demonstrations – The 1845 Hagood Mill in operation and living history exhibits.
• Vendors – Local artisans, craftspeople, and food trucks.
• Family Fun – A full day of culture, history, and community.

The festival is ASL interpreted to ensure accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing guests.

• Saturday Admission: $5 per person (ages 10+). Children 9 and under are free.
• Friday Night Admission: $10 per person (ages 10+).
• Free parking included.

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, and settle in for a weekend of unforgettable storytelling, folklore, and Appalachian tradition at the Hagood Mill Historic Site.

For more information, visit the website visithagoodmill.com/storytelling.