The Door County Museum and Archives is challenging you to write an original short story, poem, even a song that is inspired by a real historical artifact from the museum’s collection housed in Sturgeon Bay. Writers are encouraged to give a ‘spooky or mysterious’ theme to their piece, in the spirit of Halloween for this year’s ‘Tales at the Museum’.
Museum Manager Joe Taylor said this is a way for the community to engage with the Museum, in a way that’s not new to Sturgeon Bay.
For 2026, all entries must be original, unpublished fiction, with a maximum of 750 words. The contest is open to writers of all ages, and entries will be judged in three age categories: youth (up to age 10), teen (ages 11-18), and adult. A winner will be selected in each category.
The deadline for entries is October 16 at the witching hour of midnight.
A Tales of the Museum Halloween event is scheduled for 6pm, Thursday, October 29, at the Door County Museum (18 North 4th Ave, Sturgeon Bay). Winners will be announced then, and selected stories will be performed by local actors. Costumes are encouraged and there will be tricks and treats!
For more info, visit the DC Museum and Archives facebook page.
