Close your eyes and imagine fog rolling over Halifax Harbour at dusk—the clang of a distant bell buoy, a lantern swinging in an empty window, and footsteps that stop the moment you turn around—that's exactly what we’re looking for!
For 36 years, Halifax Public Libraries has teamed up with the Helen Creighton Folklore Society to celebrate fearless young storytellers. Along with Nimbus Publishing, we're inviting writers to grab a pen (or keyboard) and submit the most chilling tale they can dream up.
BONUS: Every entry also counts as one point toward your 2025 Summer Reading Club goals!, opens a new window
Contest details
- The contest is open to youth ages 7 to 15.
- Submit your ghostly tale in one of the following age categories: 7-9, 10-12, or 13-15.
- The contest runs until Monday, September 8, 2025.
- The story must be your own work—either an original piece or a retelling (in your own words) of a ghost story you’ve heard. Works generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) are not permitted.
- Judges will pick the two ghostliest stories in each age category to receive book prizes.
- Winners will be announced—and all entrants honoured—at an awards ceremony on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 2:00 PM, Alderney Gate Public Library.
- Limit of one story per writer. Individual entries only; group or class submissions will not be accepted.
- All entries should be submitted on 8½ × 11 paper.
Consent
By submitting your story, you give Halifax Public Libraries and its partners non-exclusive permission to use content of and/or made by the participant for digital or print publications. This may include, but is not limited to, social media posts, websites, newsletters, advertisements, posters, and pamphlets. On occasion, Library photos, video, audio, or publications may be shared with media outlets and community partners to promote Library events, initiatives, and stories. You certify that no other person’s permission is needed. Halifax Public Libraries cannot be held liable for images or content used with your consent.
How to enter
Submit your story by:
- Dropping it off at any branch of Halifax Public Libraries.
- Emailing askchildlib@halifaxlibrary.ca with the PDF attachment.
- Mailing to:
Ghost Story Contest
Alderney Gate Public Library
60 Alderney Dr.
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4P8
Click to Download the Submission Form
No printer? No problem! Every Library cardholder receives a $5.00 monthly printing credit—use it to print your masterpiece at any branch. Visit our Printing, opens a new window page to learn more.
For more information, drop by any Library Info Desk or call Ask the Library at (902) 490-5753.
Happy haunting—we can’t wait to read your chilling creations!