Knoxville TN, October 14, 2025
News Summary
The historic Mabry-Hazen House in Knoxville will host the eighth annual Victorian Séance Experience from October 23 to 26. This immersive Halloween event celebrates the rich history of Spiritualism, offering participants guided séances along with tarot readings and free lectures. Attendees can enjoy outdoor screenings of silent films and engage in discussions that connect Spiritualism to the cultural beliefs of today. Tickets are available for purchase in advance for those aged 10 and older.
Knoxville will host the eighth annual “Victorian Séance Experience” at the historic Mabry-Hazen House from October 23 to 26, 2025. This immersive Halloween event has gained acclaim as an award-winning experience, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the historical roots of Spiritualism.
The Victorian Séance Experience will take place in the front parlors of the historic home, which provides a picturesque view of downtown Knoxville. The Mabry-Hazen House, constructed in 1858, was the residence of influential businessman Joseph Mabry and his wife Laura. Notably, Mabry played a significant role in the development of Knoxville by donating the initial land for Market Square, a central point in the city, alongside his brother-in-law.
Joseph Mabry’s business acumen extended to his presidency of the Knoxville and Kentucky Railroad, where he raised substantial funds for railroad construction. His interests in spiritual practices are highlighted by a séance he attended in 1868, which was focused on the bond market rather than personal connections. The history of Joseph Mabry is layered; during the Civil War, he initially supported Confederate soldiers but later shifted his allegiance to Union forces for economic gain. His legacy includes involvement in a famous duel known as “The infamous gunfire on Gay Street,” alongside his son Joseph Mabry III and rival Thomas O’Connor.
The house’s connection to Spiritualism deepens with the influence of Mabry’s granddaughters, Marie and Evelyn Hazen, who were adherents of Spiritualism, Theosophy, and New Age beliefs. The celebration of this history through the séance experience will feature a Victorian medium guiding participants through a reenactment filled with mysterious and startling wonders and demonstrations of mediumship.
Throughout the event, attendees will partake in discussions about the prominence of Spiritualism and its ties to the Third Great Awakening that occurred in the 1870s. Additional attractions include the “House of Tarot,” where tarot readings will be available and local Halloween vendors will offer shopping opportunities. Browsing and tarot readings do not require reservations and are open to the public.
Each evening offers free history lectures and scary story readings alongside screenings of Halloween-themed silent films outdoors, weather permitting. The séances will commence every 15 minutes starting at 6:30 p.m., with sessions available for a maximum of seven participants, making it essential for interested visitors to secure their spots in advance. Tickets are priced at $25 for adults and $15 for children aged 10 to 16, with participation permitted only for those aged 10 and older. Special payment arrangements using cash or check can be made by contacting the house.
The Victorian Séance Experience aims to immerse visitors in the rich historical context of Spiritualism and its influence on contemporary cultural beliefs, making it a significant addition to Knoxville’s seasonal festivities.
FAQ
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Do attendees need to make reservations for browsing or tarot readings?
| Event Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Victorian Séance Experience |
| Location | Mabry-Hazen House, Knoxville |
| Event Dates | October 23-26, 2025 |
| Ticket Prices | $25 for adults, $15 for children (ages 10-16) |
| Age Requirement | 10 years and older |
| Séance Frequency | Every 15 minutes starting at 6:30 p.m. |
| Public Activities | Free history lectures, scary story readings, outdoor screenings of Halloween-themed silent films |
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Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
