Why Derry is the perfect trip this October.
- Searches for ‘Halloween holidays 2023’ have increased by +1,700% in the past 12 months as people look to plan their next break
- Derry’s long history and famous walls have led to it becoming ‘the Halloween capital of the world’
- loveholidays travel expert reveals why Derry is the perfect destination for an October break and shares other budget-friendly trip options
With searches for ‘Halloween holidays 2023’ up by +1,700%1, senior holiday product manager at loveholidays, Iona Wark, has revealed why Derry is the perfect October getaway along with other destinations where your money can go the furthest.
Derry is said to be the birthplace of Halloween, with the origins dating back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (sow-in) – making it the perfect place for fans of Halloween to visit.
So, from those keen to soak up Celtic culture to experiencing Europe’s biggest Halloween festival, here are five reasons to visit Derry this October.
- Derry Halloween Festival: Experience Europe’s biggest Halloween Festival and enjoy the story of Halloween brought to life through illumination, aerial performance, pyrotechnics and music. This year’s event runs from Saturday 28th – Tuesday 31st October.
- Creepy céilís: There will be costumed parties throughout Derry over the course of the festival, but hold out for a céilí and you’ll get a taste of traditional Irish dancing and music at the same time.
- Walk the Walls: Derry is Ireland’s only remaining completely walled city. Over Halloween, the 17th-century walls of the city form a special trail, brought to life by sinister animations projected onto them, as well as international artists performing on the streets along the way.
- Scary stories and cinema: Throughout Samhain, the Guildhall is host to a series of storytellers who take the stage, transporting their audiences back to a land of Celtic legends. There is also a mix of horror films on show for the movie buffs.
- Candle-lit orchestra: Discover the music of the Halloween season in the eerie setting of Columb’s Cathedral under the gentle glow of candlelight.
For those who want to immerse themselves in the spirit of Halloween, staying just over an hour away from Derry in Jurys Inn Belfast will cost £192 per person, with return flights from London included.
Al Murray, Chief Marketing Officer at loveholidays, comments on the research: “Halloween is a great time to get away. It’s amazing to experience how different cultures celebrate the spooky season and immerse yourself with local traditions and events.”
Press release by loveholidays
