Halloween is entwined in Ireland’s culture and folk history. So, it is no surprise the there are so many fun festivities across the Emerald Isle to mark the annual spooky celebration.
Today, we are sharing the best Halloween events in Ireland you need to experience this year.
Celebrated on 31 October every year, Halloween is an annual holiday celebrated the world over. However, what you may not know is that this annual spookfest actually finds its roots in Ireland.
The Halloween that we know and love today finds its origins in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter.
While the Halloween of today is far removed from the Pagan festival of Samhain, many traditions remain, including the lighting of bonfires and dressing in disguise.
So, if you want to experience Halloween in the place it all began, here are the ten best Halloween events in Ireland this year.
10. Halloween at Nore Valley Park, Co. Kilkenny – something for everyone
Nore Valley Park in the southeast is hosting lots of Halloween-themed events throughout October.
For a day of family fun, you can pick and carve your very own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch between 16 and 31 October.
If you’re after something spookier, you can check out their scary evening activities between 25 and 31 October.
Book: HERE
9. Halloween Spooktacular at Irish National Stud and Gardens, Co. Kildare – for a full day of fun
The National Stud and Gardens in County Kildare is hosting one of the best Halloween events in Ireland this year.
From spooky crafts to storytelling, magic shows, and more, there is plenty of festive fun to be had here between 23 and 31 October.
Book: HERE
8. Crumlin Road Gaol Halloween Jail of Horror, Co. Antrim – not for the faint-hearted
If you want to have the fright of your life this Halloween, then you need to head to Crumlin Road Gaol this All Hallows’ Eve.
Are you brave enough to undertake a paranormal investigation? Or maybe you’d rather discover the so-called ‘Jail of Horrors’? Whichever you choose, these are certainly among the most terrifying Halloween events on offer.
Book: HERE
7. Halloween at Hillsborough Castle, Co. Down – discover the Castle’s spooky history
With various events suitable for all ages, Hillsborough Castle is a must-visit this spooky season.
For a family-friendly activity, book onto the spooky Wild Raven Walk. This tour will take you on a magical walk around the gardens and discover the spooky side of Hillsborough Castle.
Alternatively, Friday Fright Night is the perfect event for bigger kids as you discover spooky tales from the Castle’s past.
Book: HERE
6. Halloween at Fota House and Gardens, Co. Cork – fun for all the family
If you’re in the southwest, then you need to check out Fota House and Gardens’ Halloween events.
Spookfest is an hour-long event involving dancing, games, and lots of Halloween fun from 23 to 25 October. Or, you can take a self-guided Halloween Ramble around the Arboretum and Victorian Working Gardens.
Book: HERE
5. Púca Festival, Co. Louth and Co. Meath – paying homage to Halloween’s Celtic origins
Returning to the Ancient East this Halloween is Ireland’s famous Púca Festival. Paying homage to the Celtic tradition of Samhain, the festival will involve lots of music, fire, feasting, and merriment.
With many events taking place in the week leading up to 31 October, there is sure to be something for everyone.
Book: HERE
4. Farmaphobia 2021, Co. Meath – one of the best Halloween events in Ireland this year
Hailed as Ireland’s biggest Halloween event, Farmaphobia is described as ‘four terrifying haunts spread over 100 acres of fear’.
With attractions such as WWII Zombies, Carnevil, Purge Night, and Momma’s Murder Maze, this is an event not to be missed.
More info: HERE
3. The Nightmare Realm, Co. Dublin – strictly for the adults
Voted ‘Best Independent Haunt in Europe 2020’ by Scare Tour and Unilad Adventure, the Nightmare Realm in Dublin is definitely one of the best Halloween events in Ireland this year.
With a multitude of spooky events taking place across the city, this haunting event is strictly adults only.
Book: HERE
2. Aboo Halloween Festival, Co. Galway – Halloween in the Capital of Culture
Ireland’s Capital of Culture comes to life at Halloween with the Aboo Halloween Festival.
Visitors can marvel at the terrifying Macnas Halloween Parade and take part in lots of fun and free events taking place across the weekend.
More info: HERE
1. Derry Halloween, Co. Derry – the biggest Halloween festival in Europe
The world-renowned Derry Halloween returns for 2021. This fantastic festival is a must-visit if you’re visiting Ireland over the spooky season.
From the terrifying events included in Awakening the Walled City to the breathtaking firework show, this is sure to be a Halloween you’ll never forget.
More info: HERE
