Explore A Haunted Tunnel At The Spooky Midnight At Moonville Festival In Ohio
By April Dray|Published September 11, 2019
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April Dray
Author
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
Did you know that every October there’s a spooky festival that takes place inside an infamous haunted Ohio tunnel? Midnight at Moonville is a one-day festival in McArthur, Ohio that features dramatic storytelling, music performances, paranormal investigations and even craft vendors. This special event makes the abandoned coal mining town of Moonville and its spooky railroad tunnel come alive.
Here’s why you’ll want to attend this one-of-a-kind festival:
Midnight at Moonville will take place on Saturday, October 12 from 3 p.m. - 11 p.m. at the infamous Moonville tunnel.
Note: Parking is $5 but most of the festival's activities are free. You'll follow the signs to the festival from the designated parking area on Shea Road. Address: 71945 Shea Road, McArthur, OH, 45651
Along the Moonville Rail Trail, you'll find the haunted Moonville Tunnel and what's left of its surrounding ghost town. Wagon rides to Moonville Cemetery will take place at 7 p.m.
One of the few structures of the town that remains today is the Moonville Tunnel, a haunted tunnel where legend has it the ghost of a man who was killed instantly by a train passing through the tunnel wanders along the track bed near the old tunnel at night.
Storytelling, live music, historical presentations, tarot card readings and even an interactive demonstration of paranormal investigation techniques will take place during the festival.
For more information about Midnight at Moonville, you can call the Vinton County CVB at 1-800-596-4459 or click here.
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You'll learn all about the history of this area of Ohio and the chilling tales that are part of its story. If you're familiar with any of the Moonville legends, this will be a rare chance to hear from experts.
In 1856, the railroad was the only route to Moonville. Throughout the years, many people have died near the tunnel and train tracks. Because the tunnel was so narrow, it was not possible for pedestrians to walk alongside the tracks in the tunnel while a train was passing through—which resulted in numerous deaths.
Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring cash for refreshments and/or merchandise—and if you're staying past sunset, don't forget your flashlight.
