Thrills. Chills. Excitement. That’s their stories and they’re sticking to ’em

ATHENS — Tall tales. Stories that will have the audience on the edge of their seats. Stories that will hold the listeners in disbelief or appreciation.

All of that, plus a little bluegrass and folk music thrown in. And it’s this month in the annual Athens Storytelling Festival.

Now in its 17th year, the festival, featuring some of the nation’s most highly acclaimed storytellers, returns to Athens State University Oct. 24-28, bringing with it stories of adventure and excitement.

The Athens Storytelling Festival turns the page Oct. 24 at 6:30 p.m. with a Student Tellers Olio. Admission is free.

At 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25, the pace is changed as the award-winning swing band Three on a String takes the stage. Admission is $25/adult and $15/child.

The festival is highlighted that weekend with the return of author Donald Davis; national Storytelling Festival favorite Bil Lepp; highly accomplished old-time bluegrass and swing musician Josh Goforth; 2022 West Virginia Folk Artist of the Year Adam Booth; and former teachers Randy Evensen and Carol Cain.

Stories will be told under the big tent by Brown Hall on the Athens State campus, 300 N. Beaty Street. Hours are 9 a.m. to 8:50 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 8:55 p.m. Saturday.

In addition, food vendors, local restaurants and an eclectic mix of shops offering a wide variety of antiques, gifts, gourmet foods, clothing and hardware will be open just a short walk from the festivities. A complimentary shuttle from the festival tent grounds to downtown Athens will also be provided.

Ticket price for admission to all events (excluding school days) are $90/adult and $50/child (16 years and younger). Tickets for any combination of events or daily admission are also available.

Tickets may also be purchased at UG White Mercantile on the square in downtown Athens. All ticket holders must stop by the Ticket Office to pick up their swatches, which will allow them entrance to the tent during their ticketed times. The Ticket Office opens 1 hour prior to festival events.

For complete ticket pricing, a schedule and other information, visit www.athensstorytellingfestival.com