Halloween, known in Ireland as Samhain, traces its origins back a thousand years to Celtic traditions. Many of today's popular Halloween customs in North America actually originated in Ireland. The Celts believed that on this holiday's eve, spirits of the dead could cross into our world, leading them to dress in frightening costumes and light bonfires to ward off evil spirits. The tradition of jack-o'-lanterns also hails from Ireland, where turnips were originally used instead of pumpkins. These ancient practices are vividly revived during Ireland's late October celebrations, honoring all things supernatural with spectacular festivities.
Puca Festival (October 31–November 3, 2024)
The Púca Festival stands out as one of Ireland's foremost Halloween events, where the ancient Celtic traditions of Samhain come alive amidst the historic settings of Trim and Athboy. Named after a legendary creature from Irish folklore, the festival unfolds over four nights with spectacular light shows, mystical rituals, captivating music, and vibrant performances. On October 31, don't miss the revered Coming of Samhain procession from Athboy to The Hill of Ward, culminating in a majestic bonfire, echoing traditions from millennia past. Tickets range from €19.94 to €50.18, offering a chance to celebrate Halloween's origins in a setting steeped in folklore and festivity.
Derry Halloween (October 28–31, 2024)
Derry Halloween offers a traditional Samhain celebration with a contemporary twist, brimming with ghoulish events and frightful fun. Set in the Derry-Londonderry area along the River Foyle, near the stunning Sperrin Mountains, Wild Atlantic Way, and Causeway Coastal Route, this festival thrives within the city’s 400-year-old walls. For four nights, immerse yourself in a vibrant carnival featuring haunted houses, eerie walks, and the mesmerizing Awakening the Walled City Trail, complete with illuminations, aerial performances, and pyrotechnics. The festival culminates on Halloween night with a grand parade and fireworks over the River Foyle, celebrating Derry’s rich Celtic traditions and community spirit.
Macnas Halloween Parade (October 27, 2024)
The Macnas ‘Danse Macabre’ Parade in Galway is the largest free Halloween event in Ireland, attracting over 70,000 people annually. On October 27th, 2024, starting at 5:30 pm from the NUI Galway campus, this spine-tingling parade will weave its way through the heart of Galway city. The event showcases Macnas' signature giant creations, intricate sculptural images, pyrotechnics, stunning costumes, and epic performances set to live and original music. Each year, the parade features a new theme, adding a fresh twist to the celebrations. Located about 2.5 hours from Dublin, Galway transforms into a hub of Halloween magic and creativity, making it an unmissable event.
Bram Stoker Festival in Dublin (October 25–28, 2024)
The Bram Stoker Festival, a renowned gothic celebration and vampire gathering, offers a thrilling four-day and night program of deadly adventures during the October Bank Holiday Weekend, right before Halloween. Dedicated to all things dark and supernatural, the festival features memorable spectacles on water, costume movie screenings, daring theater performances in evocative churches and other unusual locations, pop-up Victorian fun parks, and a wealth of live entertainment. This spine-chilling event, firmly established as one of Dublin’s largest arts festivals, celebrates the legacy of one of Ireland’s most iconic writers, bringing to life the gothic, the supernatural, and the Victorian era with a modern twist.
Rathcroagan: Origins of Samhain (October 23 to November 3, 2024)
Experience the origins of Halloween at Rathcroghan, celebrated as Ireland's Gate to Hell and the ancient home of Samhain. The 'Origins of Samhain' tour departs daily at 3 pm from Rathcroghan Visitor Centre. Visitors descend into Oweynagat, the Cave of the Cats, where myth and history converge, marking the transition from harvest to winter. This liminal space once bridged our world and the Otherworld during ancient rituals. Proper attire, including sturdy footwear, is essential for navigating the muddy and narrow passages, ensuring an unforgettable and eerie Halloween experience.
Other events
What can be better than Halloween at a haunted castle? Ireland has plenty of them. Malahide Castle, with over 800 years of history, has a few haunted spirits including a Court Jester, who was stabbed here after falling in love with the Lady of the House. Also, visitors can explore Stately Westport House, built atop the castle of the Grace O'Malley called Pirate Queen, Ashford Castle that transforms to a School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park with many Halloween-themed activities. Read more on Halloween in the capital here.
