Ireland, the Birthplace of Halloween, Celebrates its Celtic Mythology and Folklore In October

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Halloween in Galway 

If you're like countless people around the globe who celebrate Halloween each October, why not make your way to Ireland this year, where the hallowed holiday began!  

Fused in Celtic mythology and folklore, Ireland honors its ancient traditions each year with Halloween hijinks and Samhain night processions that evoke spirits, mythical creatures, and ethereal beings.  It is a ton of fun, highly entertaining and a great excuse to visit Ireland during its beautiful autumn season.  

Scary in Derry 

Started with the City of Derry, voted 'Best Halloween Destination' by readers of USA Today. Each year, scary-Derry comes alive with ancient spirits welcoming you to join its Awakening. Recognized as Europe's largest Halloween Festival, Derry Halloween takes place October 28-31, 2024 and promises to scare the bejesus out of you. 

Halloween in Waterford

Waterford
Ireland’s oldest city was founded by the Vikings more than 1,100 years ago and is brimming with history. The city's Fire & Shadows procession on October 25 passes through the city’s medieval streets and  focuses on the local legend of the Dearg Due, a vampiric figure from Waterford’s Iron Age. In addition, Waterford has scheduled a flurry of fun, family-friendly concerts, food stalls, tales and treats from October 25-27, 2024.  

St. John's Castle in Limerick

Limerick
Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, Limerick is a historic city overlooked by the imposing King John’s Castle which dates to the 13th century. The city’s Fire & Shadows procession on October 26 is part of the wider Samhain: Limerick, its Halloween festival. This year the procession will awaken the spirits of the mighty Shannon River from ancient times up to its most famous wraith, the Bishop’s Lady, who has caused havoc in the city for centuries, first while alive and then as a malicious ghost.

Longford
Historic Longford is set in Ireland’s beautiful and peaceful Hidden Heartlands. The town’s Fire & Shadows procession on October 28 highlights the Longford Dead of Night Festival. Taking centre stage this year will be local Samhain mythology and folklore focusing on the star-crossed lovers Midir and Etain.  Longford has Halloween activities from October 25-28, including a spectacular bonfire finale.

Macnas Parade in Galway

Galway
The bohemian city of Galway on the Wild Atlantic Way stages a fabulous Halloween parade each year created by the world-renowned masters of storytelling, Macnas. The parade is highly anticipated every year as it delivers a world-class spectacle theatre event featuring jaw-dropping giant figures from Irish myths and legends. This Halloween, the parade will take place on October 27, and while the theme has not yet been revealed, expect nothing less than an electrifying display of artistry and imagination.

Find out more about all that Ireland has to offer by visiting Ireland.com. 

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