Events
When to Celebrate Samhain
Samhain is traditionally celebrated on 31 October, beginning at sunset and continuing into the early hours of 1 November.
Many families and communities now enjoy festivities throughout the entire last week of October, allowing time for parties, crafts, and special activities.
Main Celebration Night: 31 October
Family-Friendly Events: 29–31 October
Community & Adult Events: 30 October – 1 November
Craft & Story Days: Any time during the final week of October
Festival Options
- Family & Community Festival
A warm, welcoming celebration for all ages.
Includes gentle traditions, games, seasonal foods, and lights to honour loved ones.
- Night of Remembrance
A peaceful evening at sunset where families light candles, share stories, and celebrate the souls of Samhain in a calm, comforting way.
- Harvest Bonfire Gathering
A classic Samhain tradition — safe, supervised bonfire, music, hot drinks, and storytelling.
- Creative Craft Festival
Perfect for schools, families, and community groups.
Focus on imagination, costumes, and simple traditions.
Activities for Children
Craft Corner
Make lanterns or “guiding lights”
Create leaf crowns
Paint pumpkins (non-scary designs)
Make paper “spirit friends” to decorate the home
- Story Time
Gentle Irish tales of Samhain, friendly ancestors, and seasonal folklore.
- Little Spirit Walk
A short, fun scavenger hunt using symbols of autumn — leaves, acorns, apples, and lantern markers.
- Friendly Feast Table
Apple snacks, bread shapes, warm drinks, and allergy-safe treats
Create Your Own Custom Tradition
Families and groups are welcome to invent their own Samhain customs.
Some ideas include:
Family Memory Box: Add notes or photos each year.
The Lantern Walk: Light a lantern and walk together after sunset.
The Blessing Basket: Fill with treats, crafts, or positive messages to give to neighbours.
Custom Characters: Create your own friendly spirit, guardian, or harvest mascot for children.
Your celebration can be as gentle, creative, or meaningful as you wish.
F.A.Q.
Popular Questions
Not exactly, but they are strongly connected. Halloween has roots in Samhain — many of the traditions we associate with Halloween (costumes, jack-o’-lanterns, “spirit night”) come from ancient Samhain customs. Over time, Samhain traditions were adapted, changed, and blended with Christian customs (like All Saints’ Day), which contributed to the modern Halloween.
Yes — many community and arts festivals celebrate Samhain. For example, the Séamus Ennis Arts Centre runs Samhain events rooted in Irish folklore, storytelling, and heritage.
Also, local Samhain parades and cultural events take place, especially in late October / early November.
Yes — for most of our organized events (workshops, storytelling, bonfire gatherings), tickets are required. This helps us plan for space, materials, and safety. However, some community gatherings (like lantern walks) may be free — check each event listing for details.
After your ticket purchase:
You’ll get a confirmation email (check spam/junk if you don’t see it).
On the day of the event, bring your ticket (printout or on your phone).
Arrive a little early so you can find your group or gather at the meeting point.
Unfortunately, we usually require everyone to have a ticket because we limit attendance for safety and space. If you want to bring someone, please check for “+1” options when booking, or ask us — sometimes we can accommodate.
You can reach us via:
Contact Form: Use the “Contact” page on our website
Phone: +353 000000000
We aim to respond to all enquiries within 48 hours.