Our annual Ghost Story Writing Contest has wrapped for 2026, and we're still feeling haunted!
The 37th Annual Ghost Writing Contest inspired many creative writers between the ages of 7-15 to explore genres like horror, thriller, mystery, ghosts, and hauntings.
Nine winners emerged and we're excited to share their winning entries with you—read them if you dare!
Congratulations to everyone that participated.
Winning Entries
Ages 7-9
- Felix and the Ghost by Poppy S
- The Night of the Creepy Crawler by Charlotte S-H
- A Helping Hand by Beatrice F
Ages 10-12
- The Oddities of Abbott House by Bridget D
- Uncanny Valley by Dia C
- Thousand Year Curse by Michael O
Ages 13-15
- Blade of Stone by Ivy D
- Sarah's Goodbye by Kitzi M
- Murder in our Midst by Meera P
Thank you so much to everyone who took the time to submit a story. Your stories were scary, surprising, and creative. Keep writing, keep dreaming, and don't stop exploring the unknown.
We also want to thank our annual partners, the Helen Creighton Folklore Society and Nimbus Publishing, and our guest judges for lending their time and expertise.
Stay tuned for more writing contests and events at your public library.