Meet Paranormal Celebrities and Investigate the Haunted Rock Island Roadhouse

If you're ready to dive headfirst into spooky season, mark your calendar for the 2nd Annual Haunted Rock Island Roadhouse Paracon on Saturday, October 5, 2024. This spine-tingling event, held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., will be followed by an exclusive VIP investigation led by the experts at Get Haunted from 8 p.m. to midnight.

What Is A Paracon?

At paracons, enthusiasts have the opportunity to explore the art of paranormal investigation, meet and interact with experts and paranormal celebrities (para-celebrities), connect with members of investigation groups, purchase equipment and books, receive psychic readings, and even join investigations alongside professionals and fellow enthusiasts.

Read More: Illinois' Creepiest House 'Was Haunted Before It Was Built'? 

Location and History

Set in the heart of Historic Rock Island, Illinois, the Haunted Rock Island Roadhouse (formerly the Haunted Rock Island YMCA) is more than just a venue—it's a portal to the past. This historic building at 500 20th Street has seen it all, from its days as a YMCA (1913-1977) to its stint as a brothel under the notorious Helen Van Dale. With ties to mobsters like John Looney and Al Capone, and stories of murder and mysterious deaths, the Roadhouse is a hotbed of paranormal activity. Visitors often leave with chilling tales of their own encounters, making it the perfect place for both seasoned and novice paranormal investigators.

What to Expect

With over 120 vendors, this event is a must for fans of the paranormal. Whether you're into Bigfoot, cryptids, extraterrestrials, or alternative healing practices, there's something for everyone. Kids can join in the fun too, with activities like face painting and photo ops with the Ghostbuster vehicle.

There will be multiple presentation rooms hosting exclusive talks and workshops. Highlights include "The Matchup: Spirit vs. Angel" with Sarah Lemos and Jodi Dehn, Bigfoot presentations by Packman Paranormal, and hands-on workshops like building your own Rempod with Lauren Haunts and Scrying classes with Kat Armstrong.

Haunted Happy Hour and Food Vendors

No spooky event would be complete without some eerie refreshments. Haunted Happy Hour, Inc. will be serving up their signature drinks, including Helen's Black Forest Blend, a special coffee made just for this event. You'll also find mouthwatering dishes from Hap's Backyard BBQ, Streets of Italy, and Justin's Tacos, plus specialty drinks and desserts from Grindhead Specialty Coffee and Happy Hippies Creations, LLC.

Headliners and Psychic Readings

This year's headliners include the two-time Psychic Medium of the Year, Rick Hayes, who will be giving a presentation on being a psychic medium, followed by a gallery reading (tickets required). Other notable guests include Josh Purvis of The Searchers, and stars from Netflix's 28 Days Haunted, Aaron G. Thompson and Nick Simons.

If you're interested in psychic readings, this is your chance to connect with over 20 top-notch psychics and healers offering everything from tarot and tea leaf readings to aura readings and sound healings.

Admission and Add-Ons

General admission is just $5, with free entry for children 10 and under. Your ticket grants access to all vendors, presentations, and non-ticketed activities. For those seeking an even deeper experience, several add-ons are available:

• VIP Investigation ($40): Join the Get Haunted team for a full paranormal investigation from 8 p.m. to midnight.
• Rock Island Roadhouse Tours ($20): Explore the haunted building with guided tours led by Linduh Roelens of Paragem.
• Rick Hayes Gallery Reading (Add-On): Participate in a gallery reading with Rick Hayes.
• Build a Rempod Workshop ($60): Create your own Rempod with Lauren Haunts and use it in a live investigation.
• Deaf Paranormal Investigator Experience (Free, registration required): Experience an investigation in silence with Josey Roberts of Silent Explorers.

Supporting a Historic Landmark

All proceeds from ticket sales and the raffle go directly to the upkeep and preservation of the Haunted Rock Island Roadhouse, ensuring that this historic site remains a cornerstone of Rock Island’s spooky legacy.

Tickets are available now on Xtreme Ticketing (www.xtremeticketing.com) and at the door. Whether you're a paranormal enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to celebrate the season, the Haunted Rock Island Roadhouse Paracon promises an unforgettable experience.