City trip tip: Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween, this is how they celebrate it in Dublin and Belfast

At the end of October, Ireland is the place to be for Halloween lovers! Here, the festival began some 2.000 years ago with the Celtic tradition of Samhain to ward off evil spirits. Today, Halloween comes in all shapes and sizes. From the Puca Festival in County Meath, where mythical tales come to life, to Derry Halloween in Northern Ireland with four days of parades, ghost tours and fireworks. And of course, don't miss Dracula during the Bram Stroker Festival in Dublin, inspired by the Irish author Bram Stoker.

Bram Stoker Festival © Failte Ireland.

A celebration of age-old traditions, mystical stories and exuberant festivals

For the Celts in Ireland, Samhain marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter. They believed that on this day the dead returned to their homes and designed spooky masks and costumes to ward off evil spirits. Bonfires and turnip lanterns kept the darkness at bay. These ancient traditions form the basis for modern Halloween. At the end of October, all of Ireland is enveloped in the Halloween spirit, giving visitors a unique opportunity to experience this Celtic culture firsthand.

Derry Halloween © Tourism Ireland

Discover the mystical figures and festivals

The ancient tradition of Samhain comes to life during the Púca Festival, taking place from October 31st to November 3rd, 2024, in Trim and Athboy, located in the east of Ireland. This exuberant festival takes place at historic sites and immerses visitors in folklore, music, dance, fire, mystical stories, and delicious food and drink. A magical way to celebrate Halloween in Ireland!

From October 25th to 28th, 2024, Dublin will be the scene of the Bram Stoker Festival. This weekend is all about the legacy of the famous Irish writer and his iconic creation, Dracula. Fans can enjoy storytelling, plays, open-air performances, and thrilling nighttime parties. The festival offers the perfect mix of culture, spooky fun, and laughter for anyone who loves Halloween and wants to celebrate the literary world of Bram Stoker in the city where it all began.

From October 28th to 31st, 2024, Derry will celebrate Halloween, one of the world's best Halloween festivals. For four days, the city transforms into a magical hub filled with parades, fireworks, and exciting activities, such as ghost walks along the 400-year-old city walls and the Awakening the Walls show. The whole city participates, from pubs with live music to costumed spectators and parade participants. It's a unique experience that Halloween lovers shouldn't miss!

Culinary traditions during Halloween

Halloween also brings unique culinary traditions! Think of barmbrack, a fruitcake in which objects like a ring or coin are hidden to predict the future. Find a ring? You might get married within a year, while a coin symbolizes wealth. Another typical dish is colcannon, a hearty cabbage stew with a generous amount of butter. These traditional dishes bring a delicious and symbolic touch to Halloween celebrations in Ireland!

Discover the versatility of the Irish autumn

The Irish autumn has much to offer besides Halloween. It's the perfect time to experience the warmth of Irish pubs with their roaring fires and live music. Nature comes alive with the beautiful autumn colors, such as in Wicklow Mountains National Park or along the Wild Atlantic WayMusic lovers can enjoy candlelit concerts, while surfers brave the Atlantic waves. Hikers can unwind on scenic routes, and from November onwards, the atmospheric Christmas markets, such as the Belfast Christmas Market.

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Derry Halloween Fireworks © Tourism Ireland

Púca Festival