New York State Office of General Services Commissioner RoAnn Destito today announced that online registration is now open for the annual Capitol Hauntings tours that will be offered from Wednesday September 25 through November 1. These special tours explore the legends, folklore, and tales of sightings and strange things connected to the historic state Capitol.

“Combining history with tales of the supernatural, our annual Capitol Hauntings tour is one of our most popular special themed tours for both our local and out-of-town guests,” Commissioner Destito said. “Our tours are free, and they fill up quickly, so I encourage everyone to sign up early and avoid missing out on this terrific and fun tour.”

Mixing history and the macabre, tour guides tell stories about the night watchman who died in the Capitol fire of 1911 and who some believe still makes his rounds today. They also recount tales of the two United State presidents who visited the Capitol after they died.

Find out where the Assembly Chamber’s “lost” murals are located and what happened to the tormented artist who created them. Walking among the gargoyle-like carvings and strange carved faces, visitors will discover the location of the Capitol’s “secret demon” and evidence of a curse the demon may hold on the Capitol will be revealed, along with other dark secrets.

The tour lasts about an hour, but the chilling, ghostly tales might haunt you forever.

The free Capitol Hauntings tours will be offered:

• 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from Wednesday, September 25 through Friday, October 25. These tours start at the information desk in the Capitol’s State Street Lobby.

• 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday from Monday, October 28 through Friday, November 1. These tours start at the information desk in the Capitol’s State Street Lobby.

• 1 p.m. on Saturdays in October. These tours start at the Washington Avenue entrance of the Capitol across from the intersection of Washington Avenue and Hawk Street.

No tours will be offered on Columbus Day, Monday, October 14.

Space on each tour is limited, so pre-registration is required. Individuals and groups of 10 or fewer may register online at www.empirestateplaza.ny.gov, beginning on Friday, September 13. Larger parties should call (518) 474-2418 to register.