As night falls and the world grows still, the mysteries of the woods come alive at O’Brien’s farm in St. John’s. Visitors can embark on evening hikes guided by Double Sure theatre from October 25 to 30, delving into stories steeped in history and Irish folklore in collaboration with the O’Brien Farm foundation.
Established in the 1800s by the O’Brien family, the farm remains operational today, maintaining a strong connection to Irish heritage through storytelling and folklore. According to Double Sure Theatre co-founder Patrick Foran, the narratives shared during the After Dark experience are inspired by collected ghost stories and Irish folklore, creating an eerie atmosphere around a crackling fire with a small group of strangers in the forest.
The After Dark at O’Brien Farm hike commenced five years ago and has evolved over time. In 2022, playwrights were commissioned to develop the stories further, leading to performances featuring local actors like Andrew Tremblett, Brandon Cave, Shelia Guy Murphy, and Marie Jones. The event unfolds with tales of the Banshee, dark fairies, and the Dullahan, a soul-seeking entity from the underworld.
One ghost story recounted during the event originates from the O’Brien family’s own accounts near the farm, involving a chilling encounter with headless figures at a funeral procession. This unique storytelling experience around campfires allows attendees to let their imaginations roam freely, drawing them back year after year.
Aaron Rogers, the general manager of O’Brien Farms, emphasized the importance of preserving the farm’s history and heritage. He shared eerie encounters while working on the property, including the discovery of a mummified cat within the walls of Thimble Cottage, dating back to the 1850s. This finding, rooted in old Irish customs, is now a part of The Rooms museum collection.
Rogers highlighted the farm’s commitment to preserving Irish heritage and the stories of blue-collar Irish farmers who settled in Newfoundland and Labrador. He underscored that the haunted hike serves not only as a fundraising initiative but also as a means of exploring the farm’s rich historical narrative.
By blending folklore, history, and immersive experiences, the After Dark haunted hike at O’Brien Farm continues to captivate visitors, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural legacy and captivating tales.