Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Ireland 2024

Halloween Events in Leinster

Leinster, with Dublin at its heart, is home to some of the best Halloween celebrations in the country. From the lively streets of the capital to the ancient, spooky sites of Meath, there’s no shortage of family-friendly events. Whether you’re looking for big parades, haunted tours, or exploring Ireland's deep Halloween history, this province has it all.

The Púca Festival

• When: October 31st – November 3rd
• Where: Trim and Athboy, Co. Meath
• What to Expect: Steeped in tradition and folklore, the Púca Festival is one of the most authentic celebrations of Samhain in Ireland. It combines mythology, storytelling, and music over four days in the heritage-rich towns of Trim and Athboy. Families can expect a supernatural night-time procession and daytime cultural events.
• Activities: Enjoy live performances by top Irish artists like Bell X1 and The High Kings, as well as interactive mythological storytelling, craft workshops, and outdoor theatre. The kids will love the Púca Parade, which brings the legends of Samhain to life.
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: Ticket prices vary; some events are free.
• Official Website

Explore more about activities in Meath with our guide on Weekend Breaks for Families in Ireland.

Bram Stoker Festival

• When: October 25th – October 28th
• Where: Dublin City, Co. Dublin
• What to Expect: A spine-chilling celebration in honour of Bram Stoker, author of Dracula. The festival transforms Dublin into a gothic playground with dramatic street performances, theatre plays and much more to be announced.
• Activties: Families can visit Stokerland, a pop-up event with Street theatre, performance tent, face painting, food market and much more. There is also The Haunting of Gusty Nook, a new show for the coolest, bravest and smartest 8 – 12 year olds.
• Age Group: Haunting of Gusty Nook is 8-12 year olds while Stokerland is for all ages.
• Admission Fee: Most events are free, with select ticketed activities.
• Official Website
  
  

Discover more family-friendly places in Dublin in our blog on Things to Do in North Dublin with Kids.

Luggwoods Halloween Event

• When: October 19th – October 31st
• Where: Luggwoods Forest, Co. Dublin
• What to Expect: Set in the enchanting forests of Luggwoods, this event offers a magical journey through a spooky woodland trail. Halloween characters, including witches and fairies, guide children as they collect ingredients for a witches’ brew and pick pumpkins to take home.
• Activities: Kids will enjoy the forest trail, pumpkin picking, and interactive experiences with costumed characters. There’s also a photo opportunity with a scenic backdrop of Dublin from the hills.
• Age Group: All ages welcome.
• Admission Fee: Price at €19.95 per child and €15.95 per adult, Babys under 12 months are free
• Official Website

Halloween Events in Connacht

Connacht is where Halloween magic meets the rugged beauty of the West. With lively parades and immersive experiences set against stunning landscapes, it’s the perfect spot for families looking for a fun and culturally rich Halloween. Whether you're wandering through Galway's bustling streets or exploring a spooky garden, there’s plenty of excitement to be had.

Macnas Halloween Parade

• When: October 27th
• Where: Galway City, Co. Galway
• What to Expect: The Macnas Parade is one of the highlights of Halloween in Ireland. Known for its stunning large-scale puppetry and storytelling, this event brings the streets of Galway to life with mythical creatures and magical performances.
• Activities: Families can enjoy the parade as it winds through Galway’s streets, featuring gigantic puppets, live music, and street performers. It is a visually stunning event that captivates both kids and adults alike.
• Age Group: All ages welcome.
• Admission Fee: Free.
• Official Website

Want more ideas for family fun in Galway? Check out our guide on Things to Do in Galway with Kids.

Halloween Festival at Slieve Aughty Centre

• When: October 26th – 31st
• Where: Slieve Aughty Centre, Co. Galway
• What to Expect: This magical journey through the Enchanted Forest offers an enchanting mix of nature, storytelling, and creativity. Families will meet friendly witches and can enjoy pony rides and craft sessions.
• Activities: Beyond the enchanted forest, children can participate in arts and crafts, spooky walks, and storytelling sessions. The festival’s organic café also provides a relaxing space for parents while the kids enjoy the fun.
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: €20 for children, adults and children under 2 go free.
• Official Website

Brigit’s Garden Halloween Event

• When: October 26th – 28th
• Where: Brigit’s Garden, Co. Galway
• What to Expect: A Halloween experience steeped in hunts, spooky stories and witches, set in the stunning gardens of Brigit’s Garden. It’s a family-friendly event filled with autumnal activities.
• Activities: The event features Ghastly Ghouls Treasure Hunt, Spooky Storytelling and witchery in the roundhouse and much more. Children will also love the Halloween-themed games set in the gardens.
• Age Group: All ages welcome.
• Admission Fee: Tickets start at €12.50 per Adult/Child (under 3’s free).
• Official Website

Halloween Events in Munster

Munster’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes make it the perfect setting for some thrilling Halloween adventures. Whether you're in Cork, Kerry, or Limerick, there’s plenty of spooky fun to be had for all ages. These events blend the region's heritage with Halloween magic, offering something for everyone.

Spike Island Spookfest Trail 2024

• When: October 26th – October 31st
• Where: Spike Island, Cobh, Co. Cork
• What to Expect: Embark on a fang-tastic adventure through the mysterious Spike Island, home to an ancient fortress and prison transformed into the realm of Halloween wonderland!
• Activities: Trick or treat around the fortress in a new Halloween themed quiz trail, Café and museum
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: Tickets start at €18.00 per person
• Official Website

BOO!! Experience Leahy’s Open Farm

• When: October 25th – 31st
• Where: Midleton, Co. Cork
• What to Expect: Leahy’s open farm this year will host Boo this Halloween for you and your family with a Haunted hayride through the forest plus more.
• Activities: There will be a spooky forest, witches, zombies, haunted rides and scary stories. Leahy’s open farm will also be open with crazy golf, maze, adventure playgrounds and much more.
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: €22.50 per person (includes entry to the farm and the Boo Experience)
• Official Website

Monsters, Misfits and Mayhem at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

• When: October 26th – 28th
• Where: Bunratty Castle, Co. Clare
• What to Expect: Filled with spooky fun where the grounds of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are transformed into a world filled with monsters, misfits and mayhem. Expect creepy creatures, live performances, and Halloween-themed games.
• Activities: Fancy dress competition, face painting, magic shows, and plenty of Halloween games for the little ones.
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: Child is €15.80, and Adult is €22
• Official Website

Halloween Events in Ulster

Ulster is home to some of Ireland’s liveliest Halloween celebrations. From the world-renowned Derry Halloween Festival to enchanting forest trails, there’s no shortage of spooky fun for families in Northern Ireland. Whether you’re after a vibrant street parade or a magical woodland adventure, Ulster has something for everyone this Halloween.

Derry Halloween Festival

• When: October 28th – October 31st
• Where: Derry City, Co. Derry
• What to Expect: Voted Europe’s largest Halloween celebration, Derry’s festival is an explosion of spooky fun. With parades, fireworks, and family-friendly ghost tours, this event offers something for everyone.
• Activities: Halloween parades, spooky ghost tours, fireworks over the river Foyle, and a carnival atmosphere with street performers.
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: Free.
• Official Website

The Jungle NI Halloween Family Event

• When: October 19th – October 31st
• Where: Moneymore, Co. Londonderry
• What to Expect: A family-friendly event filled with pumpkin picking, scare trails, and spooky face painting. The event takes place at The Jungle NI, known for its thrilling outdoor activities.
• Activities: Pumpkin patch, face painting, haunted scare trail, and interactive experiences with costumed characters.
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: £8–£12 per ticket.
• Official Website

The Ark Open Farm Halloween Pumpkin Patch

• When: October 12th – October 31st
• Where: The Ark Open Farm, Newtownards, Co. Down
• What to Expect: A family-friendly Halloween adventure at the farm, featuring a pumpkin patch and plenty of seasonal activities for kids. It’s the perfect day out for those who love animals and Halloween fun combined!
• Activities: Pumpkin picking, face painting, haunted scare trails, and lots of farm animal encounters. There’s also a chance to carve your own pumpkin on-site.
• Age Group: Suitable for all ages.
• Admission Fee: Prices start at £7 for Toddler (Aged 1-2), £15 for Child (Aged 3-17)
• Official Website

Conclusion

From Leinster to Ulster, Halloween 2024 is shaping up to be packed with thrilling and magical events for kids across Ireland. Whether you're planning a day out to explore a spooky forest or a full weekend at one of Ireland’s iconic Halloween festivals, there’s something here to delight children of all ages. As you map out your Halloween adventures, don’t forget to check out our guide on 10 Fun Halloween Activities for Kids for more inspiration.

And if you're driving to any of these exciting destinations, make sure your family’s covered on the road. With AIG Car Insurance, you can set off with peace of mind, knowing you’re protected while exploring Ireland’s best Halloween events. Happy Halloween! 🎃