Fingal launches impressive Ireland Home of Halloween programme Come, revel in the mischief …
Fingal has announced an exceptional programme for the month of October as part of the Ireland Home of Halloween campaign, building on a solid base of existing events. The county was announced as one of the seven hubs earlier this year, following a competitive application process. The pilot scheme is part of the ‘Ireland, Home of Halloween Strategy’ which was developed collaboratively by Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, and Tourism Northern Ireland.
The ‘Ireland Home of Halloween’ brand has been specially created to be used throughout the season, uniting Halloween festivities and initiatives and positioning Ireland as the authentic global home of Halloween. The distinctive logo is inspired by folklore and stories dating back through the ages of Samhain and the shadowy ‘host of Halloween’ will soon be familiar to everyone as it appears on events all over the county.
“Being appointed as one of Ireland’s Home of Halloween hubs is a recognition of our rich heritage, our vibrant community spirit, and our ability to showcase Ireland’s most authentic traditions on a global stage”, said Cllr. Tom O’Leary Mayor of Fingal, “With our historic settings and unique storytelling culture, Fingal is the perfect place to celebrate Halloween as it was meant to be. This is not just an honour for our county, but an opportunity to welcome the world to experience the magic of Halloween here in Fingal.”
As the evenings draw in from the beginning of October Fingal will come alive with witches and warlocks, fireworks and food fairs, ghouls and ghosties. Many events are free of charge, welcoming everyone and they range from fun family-friendly affairs to an exploration of the darker side of Samhain. Every venue, from the libraries and art centres to Fingal’s historic castles, is bringing ancient traditions to life by merging them with modern-day celebrations that are fun, vibrant and truly unique.
Here are a few highlights from Ireland Home of Halloween in Fingal:
Pumpkins After Dark
A spellbinding open air event running from 3rd 31st October, Newbridge House and Farm in Donabate is transformed into a magical Samhain wonderland. Step into a breathtaking 1km long illuminated farm and walled garden walk where over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins glow scarily in the darkness.
Festival of Fire
On Halloween night 31st October, the Festival of Fire takes place in three locations around Fingal –Bremore Castle, Swords Town Park and Millennium Park Blanchardstown. It kicks off at 7pm with a Scary DJ, an electrifying musical prelude setting the mood for an unforgettable night. Then fireworks displays will light up the night sky with explosions of colour and awe-inspiring light. It's free and fun, the perfect way to celebrate Halloween with friends and family.
Fire & Folklore: A Samhain Journey
Ardgillan Castle taps into its own shadowy history from 25th to 31st October for this atmospheric Halloween tour with fire, folklore, and a touch of fright. Discover ancient Samhain traditions in music, harvest customs, and crafts and hear the chilling tale of the ghostly Lady of the Stairs. Costumes encouraged!
The Soul of Samhain
A month-long Samhain programme at the Seamus Ennis Arts Centre inspired by their rich storytelling heritage, folklore and mythology. A Harvest Food Fair with Fingal Food Circle, archaeology, mythology, Irish Whiskey, workshops and horror movies are just some of the dazzling choices on offer.
See https://www.fingal.ie/ireland-home-halloween for further information