Skip to main content

Halloween in Derry, Ireland

Halloween revelers in Derry

It’s the spookiest time of the year, and we have Ireland to thank for it! Halloween as we know it today is derived from Samhain, the Gaelic celebration marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the cold winter. The traditions we have come to celebrate every year on October 31st, from carving pumpkins to wearing costumes, have evolved from symbolic rituals of this festival, which was also believed to be the one day a year that spirits could return to earth. 

Today, Halloween in Ireland is just as exciting an affair as ever. Cities and towns across the country have fantastic festivals complete with costume contests, family activities, and the special bonfires once believed to have protective powers against evil spirits. Perhaps the most famous festival of all takes place each year in the city of Derry. 

Drummers in a tunnel in Derry

Derry’s celebrations usually last over 9 days, and often draw a crowd of over 100,000 people! Of course, the first thing you will notice is that revelers are in amazing costumes. Everyone gets into the Halloween spirit by dressing up. In fact, the tradition of costumes also dates back many years. During Celtic times, costumes were used as disguises from spirits. It was said these disguises would confuse evil and help avoid being taken away by the spirits that would be out in the night. 

There are activities for all ages. There are adults-only ghost tours that will leave you scared to the bone, as well as family-friendly haunted houses that won’t spook the little ones. Bars and restaurants around the city play Halloween music, and hold costume contests. There is even a story-writing contest for aspiring writers to try their hand at crafting a perfectly chilling tale. 

People in Halloween costume in Derry

One of the most breathtaking events during the celebrations in Derry includes the light festival, “Awakening the Walls” which is an art installation featuring over 30 artists and performances. Street performances are around every turn, showcasing talented dancers and fantastic costumes. The performance highlight comes in the form of the Carnival Parade and Fireworks, on Halloween night, where everyone gathers to see incredibly designed floats and rejoice in the fireworks, just as the ancients gathered around the traditional bonfire that marked the end of harvest season. 

Fireworks over Derry

Check out all of the details at www.derryhalloween.com, and get into the ghoulish spirit! Maybe you can join in on the fun in person next year! 

Ireland Tours

Showing 5 of 5 total

Mystical Ireland

Starting from $2,395

4.9
8 Days

Explore the lesser-known northern half of Ireland, starting in Dublin and ending in Shannon. This itinerary hugs the coastline and visits St. Patrick country, Titanic Belfast, the walled city of…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

Irish Adventure

Starting from $1,945

4.8
8/9 Days

Make the most of every moment of your Ireland vacation—you'll discover all the can't-miss Irish scenery and history on this fast-paced tour.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

Irish Odyssey

Starting from $3,395

4.8
12 Days

Explore Ireland's gorgeous scenery and rich history on this comprehensive Irish tour that hits every corner of the island.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

Irish Classic

Starting from $3,445

4.8
12/13 Days

Skirt along the entire rugged coastline to see the highlights on this Ireland tour.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

Irish Classic Self-Drive

Starting from $2,095

13 Days

Drive the rugged coastlines and countryside as you explore. See Dublin’s highlights, then head to Belfast as you start your route around Ireland. 

Independent Adventures

How can we help you?

Contact US