Fingal unveils massive spooky autumn festival programme for 2026
Fingal County Council has launched a vibrant schedule featuring over 100 events across twenty distinct locations to celebrate the ancient roots of Samhain. The exciting cross-island tourism initiative promises mesmerising light trails, immersive historical tours, and unforgettable family entertainment throughout October.
Source:
Fingal County Council
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⏱️ 2 min read
Fingal County Council has officially unveiled an ambitious line-up for the Ireland Home of Halloween 2026, offering more than 100 events spread across over 20 unique venues. The major autumn celebration kicked off at Howth Castle, which will host various atmospheric happenings throughout the month of October. Now entering its second year, the collaborative initiative is spearheaded by Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, and Tourism Northern Ireland to champion the island's authentic heritage as the true birthplace of Halloween and ancient Samhain traditions.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tony Murphy, highlighted the diverse range of activities tailored for all ages, from vintage cinema screenings in Balbriggan and writer's workshops in Howth to ghost stories in Blanchardstown and harvest fine dining in Naul. AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, emphasised that the partnership with Fáilte Ireland continues to celebrate fascinating cultural traditions while boosting local tourism during the spooky season. Meanwhile, Paul Mockler of Fáilte Ireland noted that these distinctive visitor experiences successfully encourage sustainable travel beyond the traditional peak summer months.
Key highlights for the upcoming season include the spellbinding Pumpkins After Dark walk at Newbridge House and Farm, featuring over 10,000 hand-carved illuminated pumpkins along a one-kilometre trail. On Halloween night, the Festival of Fire will illuminate Bremore Castle, Swords Town Park, and Millennium Park Blanchardstown with live DJ sets and dazzling fireworks displays. Other unmissable highlights feature the atmospheric Ardgillan Residents Return crypt tours, the Feast of Samhain events at Howth Castle, and an immersive dining experience at Malahide Castle. Further details and scheduling information are available on the official website at explorefingal.ie.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tony Murphy, highlighted the diverse range of activities tailored for all ages, from vintage cinema screenings in Balbriggan and writer's workshops in Howth to ghost stories in Blanchardstown and harvest fine dining in Naul. AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, emphasised that the partnership with Fáilte Ireland continues to celebrate fascinating cultural traditions while boosting local tourism during the spooky season. Meanwhile, Paul Mockler of Fáilte Ireland noted that these distinctive visitor experiences successfully encourage sustainable travel beyond the traditional peak summer months.
Key highlights for the upcoming season include the spellbinding Pumpkins After Dark walk at Newbridge House and Farm, featuring over 10,000 hand-carved illuminated pumpkins along a one-kilometre trail. On Halloween night, the Festival of Fire will illuminate Bremore Castle, Swords Town Park, and Millennium Park Blanchardstown with live DJ sets and dazzling fireworks displays. Other unmissable highlights feature the atmospheric Ardgillan Residents Return crypt tours, the Feast of Samhain events at Howth Castle, and an immersive dining experience at Malahide Castle. Further details and scheduling information are available on the official website at explorefingal.ie.