4 Frightful Halloween Events and Festivals around Ireland and Northern Ireland

The spooky season is upon us, which means it's time to partake in some of the frightful and delightful events around Ireland, from ghoulish night tours to fancy-dress balls, spooky afternoon teas and fantastic fireworks...

 derry halloween festival

1. Derry Halloween Festival

The Derry Halloween Festival is set to take place from the 28th to the 31st of October and includes a vast range of activities, performances and more. On the 29th, 30th and 31st, images projected onto the city's ancient walls will light up the city and 'Awaken the Walls'.  Chill out with the soothing sounds of the Samhain sessions and then on Halloween night, take part in the annual street parade, weaving its way through the city streets, featuring costumed performers, large illuminated sculptures and circus acts. The night will come to a breath-taking conclusion with the festival finale, lighting up the sky on the 31st of October.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Bishop's Gate Hotel is located in the heart of the city, while Ardtara House and Castle Grove are both less than an hour’s drive away.

dublin at night

2. Bram Stoker Festival

Celebrating the legacy of one of the most renowned literary greats in Irish history, The Bram Stoker Festival is taking place over the Halloween Bank Holiday weekend in Dublin. This year the festival is from the 28th-31st of October. Featuring ghoulish events such as Dracula’s Disco, scary movie screenings and spectacular theatrical performances all around Dublin, these four days and nights of deadly adventure are not to be missed.

Stay in The Wilder Townhouse or The Merrion Hotel in Dublin which are both very close by. 

puca festival image

3. Púca Festival, Drogheda, Trim and Athboy

Púca Festival, taking place from October 28th to 31st in Trim, Co. Meath, will be a spectacular festival of music and light complemented by rich harvest-inspired food experiences, and celebrating a time when the light turns to dark, the veil between realities draws thin, rules can be broken and the spirits move between worlds. Some of the highlights include the stunning light-projection on the walls of Trim Castle and St. Laurence's Gate in Drogheda, the Púca Food and Craft Market in Trim, and the Coming of Samhain in Athboy.

Stay nearby in Tankardstown House in Co. Meath.

limerick dusk at bridge

4. Samhain Halloween Festival Limerick 2022

The Samhain event in Limerick promises frights, delights and fun for all ages with Halloween storytelling and night tours of Limerick city from the 27th-29th of October.

On the final night of the festival, the Bishop's Lady will rise to once again roam the medieval streets of Limerick, haunting all who gather on Nicholas Street. She will lead the parade with community and artistic groups taking part and will end with lanterns being placed upon the river. The people of Limerick and visitors to the city will gather in a procession of light and dramatically light up the river as the lanterns float away, honouring the spirits of those who have passed.

Stay close to all the ghoulish action and stay at No.1 Pery Square or The Mustard Seed