Introduction | Derry Halloween

Welcome Fáilte • Fair Faa Ye • Witamy • Bienvenue Willkommen • Benvenuto • Bienvenido

Near Banba’s Crown, from faerie mounds Standing on the Ninth Wave, high above the Walls of Derry The Ancients await the opening of the gate between this world and the other.

Gods and Goddesses lead the Star People. Danu, Macha, Morrigan, Cú Chulainn and Mac Cool. At Brú na Boinne, they wait. At Newgrange, Beltany and Tullahogue, they wait. Within Grianan of Aileach, Red Branch Knights in battle gear restrain their horses as they rear. They are ready.

And as the Samhain moon draws near the people of Derry show no fear. Disguises are donned, fires are lit, feasts are made and places are set. To welcome one and all to the biggest party yet.

The Return of the Ancients

Whilst many destinations celebrate Hallowe’en, any visitor to the City on the 31st October will tell you that no-one does it quite like Derry. What started out as a small fancy dress party in a Derry pub over three decades ago, now sees tens of thousands of people flock to Europe’s Hallowe’en capital every year. A scarily unique experience for absolutely everyone brave enough to get into the Hallowe’en spirit!

An awesome 100 plus events in over 40 venues across the city and district in a spookily packed programme of arts, music, food, cultural, contemporary and family-friendly entertainment on the city’s streets and 17th century walls culminating in a magical fireworks display by the River Foyle.

Come dressed as witches, ghouls, vampires, banshees and monsters from the other world for a truly unique festival experience.