NCPR and Adirondack Center for Writing Present Howl Story Slam Live! in Saranac Lake

Join the next NCPR Howl Story Slam live event on Friday October 10, 2025, in Saranac Lake at the Waterhole Music Lounge.

What’s a story slam? It’s a live, open-mic event where participants tell a true, personal story in 5 minutes, with no notes or props, to a specific theme.

These events foster a sense of community through shared experiences and perspectives, with a primary focus on the art of live storytelling rather than serious competition.

The Howl Story Slam team is a partnership between Adirondack Center for Writing and North Country Public Radio, two organizations that believe in the power of stories.

Theme: Go Your Own Way

The theme for this event is Go Your Own Way — stories of roads less taken, independence, dancing to your own tune, or just plain old getting lost. The first 15 storytellers to sign up will be included in the lineup.

All are welcome to attend. If you are able, a suggested donation of $10 is appreciated to support the storytelling season for the Howl team.

For more information, visit the Adirondack Center for Writing website. See their tips for storytellers as well.

NCPR’s The HOWL Podcast.

The HOWL Podcast, hosted by Ethan Shantie, features true stories, told with no notes, recorded live on stages all over the North Country. It’s the best stories from Howl Story Slam Live events at venues in your neighborhood (find out more about those below), now on your phone, tablet, or laptop.

What happens when you join a dating site on a dare? Or when you accidentally take your dog’s medication? Or when your best friend tags along on a camping trip even though he never should have set foot in the woods? Each of those tales is paired with stories from Ethan's life—stories about Bigfoot, cooking on car engines, and many more strange encounters.

Hear it all on the HOWL Podcast from NCPR and the Adirondack Center for Writing.

About Waterhole.

Waterhole is a live music venue and bar located in downtown Saranac Lake, New York, known for hosting live music, events like "Party on the Patio," and offering the largest selection of craft beer in the Adirondacks.

It features two bars and a large, seasonal outdoor patio, with the upstairs area serving as a destination for regional and national bands. The Waterhole is a cultural gathering place for locals and visitors, offering good company and great entertainment.

For more information, visit Waterhole’s website or Facebook page.

Photo courtesy Waterhole.

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