If someone were to ask me what my favorite holiday was, I would undoubtedly answer Halloween. I love everything spooky, scary, and utterly horrific, which is why Carolina Fear Fest was on my list of events to attend this year.
@lexpaigeandtheodore Is it Halloween yet? 🎃👻💀 #carolinafearfest #fyp #halfwaytohalloween #halloween2025
♬ Halloween Theme – John Carpenter & Cody Carpenter & Daniel Davies
What is Carolina Fear Fest?
Carolina Fear Fest is a horror fan’s dream come true, or nightmare. If you didn’t attend (I’m sorry), but if you did, you know this event took place from May 23 to May 25th, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina. The convention featured over 100,000 square feet dedicated to the horror genre, showcasing a variety of events, celebrity guests, and exclusive merchandise. It was a genuine and immersive celebration of horror, and I enjoyed every moment of it. It wasn’t just about costumes and merchandise; it was about the passion, community, and the eerie details that bring horror to life.
What to Expect
At Carolina Fear Fest, you can look forward to a wide range of horror-themed activities. You’ll have the opportunity to meet celebrity guests, take photos, watch special shows, attend talks, connect with experts in the horror field, learn about local haunts to visit in the fall, participate in cosplay, and take home some unique merchandise. Let me share my experience of attending the festival with my fiancé, who also has a deep love for all things horror.
If you love unique decor or a stylish shirt inspired by Buffalo Bill, the vendor floor is a must-see. During our visit, we made it a priority to explore every vendor table, and we were impressed by the variety of offerings. I discovered booths filled with horror-themed art, collectibles, and curiosities. It was a paradise for horror enthusiasts, with items you won’t find anywhere else. I picked up a few things, including a SAW-themed graphic shirt and a Silence of the Lambs shirt. I also enjoyed talking to the vendors and mingling with other attendees while shopping. You can see a full list of vendors who were there here.
On the event stage, there were ongoing demonstrations like special effects makeup and discussions with celebrity guests. I had the opportunity to see horror icons like Malcolm McDowell and learn about their experiences in the horror genre during Q&A sessions. I also attended a few additional panels focused on horror films, and afterward, I enjoyed some time in the gaming area. Unfortunately, I missed the constume catwalk, which I’m bummed about, but next year it will be on my must-see list.
My Highlights
You know an event focused on horror is significant when it features authentic props from major horror films. I was so impressed with some of the vendors and their collections. One of my favorite experiences was seeing the mask from The Black Phone—the chilling piece from Scott Derrickson’s psychological horror masterpiece. I also had the chance to meet the original creator of the Annabelle Doll from the Conjuring universe. It was surreal and fascinating to discuss with the creator how Annabelle came to be, as well as the process of transforming a legend into a cultural icon. Hearing firsthand how something so terrifying originated from imagination, folklore, and cinematic brilliance is truly a rare experience.
But that wasn’t all I experienced. I also had the chance to meet Daniel Roebuck, the legendary actor known for his roles in The Munsters and numerous horror projects. He was warm and welcoming, just as passionate about horror as the fans lining up to meet him. He even shared stories about working with Rob Zombie and discussed how the genre continues to evolve. It was truly an experience I will never forget. To make the moment even better, we both got signed photos; don’t judge me for my choice, but I picked one from my childhood favorite, Agent Cody Banks. It was such a special moment to connect with him.
Final Thoughts
Every corner of the convention featured something twisted, thrilling, or terrifying to marvel at. Carolina Fear Fest 2025 wasn’t just a weekend getaway; it was a celebration of everything that horror fans love. I had the opportunity to meet many fellow horror enthusiasts, and it felt like a safe space. The attention to detail, the chance to meet creators and legends, the authentic props, and the immersive events—it’s everything I could have hoped for. If you’re a horror fan who seeks more than just jump scares and Halloween nights, this is your community. It’s raw, real, and drenched in fake blood and fog, but it’s all heart. I can’t wait to go back next year. Want to experience the event for yourself? Follow @CarolinaFearFest on social media or check out their website for updates and tickets.
With Love,
Lex Paige
