Crowds of visitors exploring market stalls and food vendors at the Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle, County Antrim.

What's On

For such a small corner of the world, you’ll find there’s very rarely a dull moment in…

Group taste a cacao shot as part of the Master Craft Chocolate Experience

Food & Drink

Tuck into the best places to eat in Northern Ireland – from cosy pubs and seaside chippies to…

Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Hallowe'en Events & Things to Do in Northern Ireland

Welcome to the Home of Halloween.

From spectacular festivals to eerie adventures, ancient folklore to family-friendly attractions and more, Halloween in Northern Ireland is a celebration like no other.

Here is where you'll find the stories and traditions behind the occasion, experience Derry Halloween - the largest Halloween festival in Europe - and explore vibrant city celebrations, historic locations and unique attractions as the season of mischief, magic and mystery comes to life.

Whether you're planning a fun day out for the family, a short break or a visit to one of Northern Ireland's many Halloween events and experiences, you'll find plenty of inspiration below. Explore what's on, discover things to do, uncover spooky happenings and plan your perfect Halloween adventure below.

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The Home of Halloween

Halloween here is more than just a celebration, it's a part of our very fabric. Halloween traces its roots to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated across the island of Ireland more than 2,000 years ago.

Many of the historic customs evolved into the Halloween traditions we know today: from dressing up in disguises and trick-or-treating to the iconic jack-o'-lantern - originally carved from turnips rather than pumpkins.

Today, Northern Ireland is a place where those traditions still feel close at hand. After all, where else can you explore landscapes steeped in myth and legend, discover some of the most haunted locations on the island of Ireland, and experience storytelling, folklore and festivities at the largest Halloween festival in Europe?

 

Experience Europe's Largest Halloween Festival

Every October, Derry~Londonderry becomes the beating heart of Halloween on the island of Ireland. As the host of Europe's largest Halloween festival, the city comes alive with epic spectacle, immersive experiences and a carnival atmosphere that draws visitors from around the world.

Expect dazzling performances and unforgettable moments around every corner, as historic streets are transformed for a celebration unlike any other. From family-friendly fun to world-class entertainment, discover why Derry Halloween has earned its reputation as one of the world's must-visit Halloween experiences.

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Spooky suggestions... Halloween in Northern Ireland

Footsteps in the Forest Oct 21
Festival

Footsteps in the Forest

  • Oct 21, 2026 - Oct 27, 2026

As the crisp autumn air settles in, the Footsteps in the Forest festival at Slieve Gullion Forest…

Halloween at W5 Oct 17
Family Fun

Halloween at W5

  • Oct 17, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026

Something spooky is brewing at W5 this Halloween! Step into a world of haunted houses, mysterious…

Halloween at Montalto Oct 24
Family Fun

Halloween at Montalto

  • Oct 24, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026

Embark on the Trail of Tiny Terrors this Halloween at Montalto Something strange is happening at…

Events & Celebrations

What's On This Halloween

From the spectacular celebrations of Derry~Londonderry to seasonal events taking place right across Northern Ireland, Halloween brings a packed programme of experiences inspired by folklore, tradition and more than a little mischief. Whether you're planning a family day out, seeking something spooky after dark or looking to experience the spirit of Samhain for yourself, there's plenty to discover throughout the season.

Browse upcoming events and find your next Halloween adventure.

 

Explore More This Halloween

Frighteningly Good Halloween Experiences

From family-friendly pumpkin patches to genuinely scary immersive horror attractions, there's no shortage of Halloween experiences in Northern Ireland this October. Whether you're planning a day out with the kids, want to try a Halloween-themed murder mystery or looking for something that'll genuinely raise your heart rate, discover just some of the unforgettable adventures and activities available this Halloween below.

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Castle Stays for a Spooky Season Escape

Looking for somewhere special to stay this Halloween? Trade the ordinary for a castle stay and sleep within stone walls, wander dramatic grounds and experience Northern Ireland's most enchanting stays during the season of ghosts, folklore and firelight. From grand towers to luxurious manor estates - and even a haunted hotel - discover unique places to stay that add a touch of magic to your autumn getaway.

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Things To Do With Kids This Halloween

From picking the perfect pumpkin at a local patch and following spooky woodland trails to enjoying Halloween events, fancy dress fun and seasonal treats, there are countless ways for families to celebrate together. Whether you're planning a weekend adventure, a half-term day out or simply looking for ways to keep the kids entertained, you'll find plenty of autumn inspiration across Northern Ireland. 

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Plan Your Autumn Short Break

With vibrant autumn colours, cosy places to stay and a packed calendar of events, Halloween is the perfect time to enjoy a short break in Northern Ireland. Extend your visit beyond the festivities and discover spectacular landscapes, local food and drink, historic attractions and charming towns and cities. Whether you're visiting for a day or staying for a long weekend, there's plenty to experience throughout the season.

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Halloween In Northern Ireland

Halloween in Derry~Londonderry

Home to one of the world's most famous Halloween celebrations, Derry~Londonderry transforms into a city of myths, legends and larger-than-life spectacle each autumn. Streets come alive with music, performance, costume and creativity as visitors from around the world gather to experience the unique atmosphere. Alongside the flagship celebrations, the city offers a fantastic base for exploring Northern Ireland's wider Halloween experiences.

Halloween Adventures Across Northern Ireland

Across Belfast and beyond, you’ll find family-friendly workshops, lively gatherings and seasonal fun to spark the imagination.

Misty forests and storied castles set the stage for experiences that blur the line between past and present, while ancient myths entwine with modern traditions to create something magical. Look out for eerie adventures at the Ulster American Folk Park, surprises at the Ulster Folk Museum, and Halloween at Montalto. With so much happening, why not plan a short break and make the most of the season?

Family-Friendly Halloween Activities

Looking for Halloween fun for little monsters? Discover family-friendly events and attractions across Northern Ireland, from interactive museum experiences and spooky trails to pumpkin-themed activities, seasonal workshops and magical woodland adventures. Many attractions offer Halloween activities designed specifically for younger visitors, making it easy to enjoy a memorable autumn day out together.

Discover the Traditions of Samhain

Halloween's roots can be traced back thousands of years to Samhain, an ancient Celtic festival marking the transition from summer to winter. Across Northern Ireland you'll find experiences inspired by folklore, storytelling, fire festivals and local traditions that connect visitors with the origins of Halloween. It's a unique opportunity to explore the myths, legends and cultural heritage that continue to shape the season today.

Plan a Halloween Short Break

Searching for the best Halloween events in Northern Ireland? From the world-famous celebrations in Derry~Londonderry to family-friendly attractions, haunted experiences, immersive trails and authentic Samhain-inspired events, there are countless ways to enjoy the spooky season. Explore what's on this Halloween and discover memorable days out, unique evening experiences and autumn adventures across Belfast, the Causeway Coastal Route, Armagh, Fermanagh, Down and beyond. Whether you're visiting with family, friends or as part of a seasonal short break, Northern Ireland offers one of the most distinctive Halloween experiences anywhere in Europe.