Paranormal investigation is a rapidly growing area of interest around the world, and there are now thousands of paranormal groups around the country. If you’re interested in ghosts, a good first step is to join an organized “ghost hunt” to get a first taste of paranormal investigation. Here’s our guide to enjoying your first event.
Check What Kind of Paranormal Event You’re Attending
Before you book, be sure to check whether the event is a genuine paranormal investigation or ghost tour, as opposed to a staged event. A staged event will use live actors and/or special effects to guarantee you a scary evening, but it’s just entertainment - there’s no actual paranormal investigation involved, and that’s not what we mean when we talk about ghost hunts.
Book to attend an investigation event with a reputable paranormal group. Alternatively, historic sites and houses often organize their own paranormal nights, which is another good option.
Check the Practicalities
Be sure you find out in advance whether the event involves overnight accommodation, and whether food and drink is provided. Often a meal will be included, but equally often you will be expected to bring your own sandwiches or snacks and hot drinks.
Since most people attending organized ghost hunts are not paranormal investigators themselves, you will not normally be expected to have any paranormal equipment. If you do have, and would like to take it, check whether that will be allowed. Check also whether you will be allowed to photograph or film events.
A Typical Ghost Hunt
Most paranormal events begin with a briefing, during which the organizers will explain a little bit about the history of the location, and about what ghostly activity has been experienced there in the past. You will then usually be given a tour of the building or site, to familiarize yourself with its locations. This bit is important, because the majority of the investigation which follows will take place in the dark. Pay particular attention to any safety information, as locations will often have uneven floors, unexpected changes of level and so forth.
Once the lights are out and darkness has descended, you will typically be split into small groups. Each group will carry out a variety of activities in different locations - you might be sat in silent vigil for a while, or you might be asked to call out to see if any spirits respond. Perhaps there will be a Ouija board experiment, or you might be tasked with recording results from thermometers, sensors and other equipment.
Usually, unless it is a full overnight event with accommodation, the event will wrap up in the early hours of the morning with a debrief, during which any potentially paranormal happenings you’ve experienced will be discussed and analyzed.
Keep an Open Mind
It’s important to understand that you are not guaranteed to witness anything paranormal. Most investigations do capture something interesting, but it’s usually not a full blown ghostly apparition - much more common are unexplained noises, temperature variations and perhaps the sensation of being pushed or touched. It’s unlikely that absolutely nothing will happen, but it’s possible, and not under the control of the group.
With luck, you will experience something which cannot be explained by rational means - and that’s where the fun begins. From your first ghost hunt, a lifelong fascination for the paranormal may well develop, so be warned!
