Ferdia Festival returns to Ardee bigger than ever this Halloween

Ferdia Festival is returning to Ardee this Halloween and organisers say it is bigger than ever before.

Taking place over two days on Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November, this year's festival promises a fun-filled celebration of arts, music, heritage, and community across venues throughout the town.

The theme once again is Samhain and Halloween, with Ardee itself at the heart of the festivities. Visitors of all ages can enjoy art workshops, a pop-up museum, walking tours, spooky street performances, parades, discos and live music hosted in outdoor spaces and indoor venues including St. Mary's Church, Ardee School of Music, the Bohemian Centre, Dee Hub and Fair Green Park.

New for 2026, a vibrant street parade will see professional performers joined by local children in dance and drumming performances.

The festival will culminate in a dramatic fire show at the Fair Green Park, bringing the weekend's celebrations to a spectacular close.

Launched in 2025, Ferdia Festival was established with the ambition of expanding Ardee's autumn arts offering while celebrating the town, its heritage and its creative talent through a programme of accessible cultural events.

Following the success of the inaugural festival, which attracted more than 500 people, the voluntary festival committee built on that momentum with an expanded programme for 2026.

Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: "Following the success of the inaugural Ferdia Festival last year it is wonderful to see the festival return even bigger and better in 2026.

“The ambition and dedication of the voluntary committee has been remarkable, expanding the event from a one-day festival into a vibrant two-day celebration of arts, heritage and community.

“Louth County Council is proud to support this exciting initiative, which showcases the creativity, culture and community spirit that makes Ardee such a special place.

“With an expanded programme and a wide range of events for all ages, I encourage everyone to come along and be part of what promises to be a fantastic weekend."

Helen McManus, Chair of the Ferdia Festival Committee added: "Ferdia Festival is built on community participation and collaboration, bringing together local artists, performers, volunteers, community groups and audiences to celebrate Ardee's unique heritage and creativity.

“We are committed to making the festival as welcoming and accessible as possible, and we encourage anyone with accessibility requirements to contact us in advance so we can support their participation.

“We also welcome new volunteers who would like to get involved and help make this year's event a success. The enthusiasm and generosity of volunteers play a vital role in bringing Ferdia Festival to life, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Ardee this Halloween."

Moya Hodgers, Arts Officer, Louth County Council, added: “Ferdia Festival shows the lasting impact of community-led investment in culture, creating opportunities for people to engage with the arts while supporting local artists, performers, and venues.

“Louth County Council is committed to making the arts more accessible across the county and supporting the festival committee as it delivers an expanded programme for the local community and creative sector.

“The festival’s continued growth demonstrates what strong partnerships can achieve, enriching Ardee’s cultural life, strengthening the local creative economy and enhancing County Louth’s cultural calendar.”

Ferdia Festival is coordinated by a voluntary festival committee and is funded by Louth County Council and the Arts Council of Ireland.

For information on accessibility or volunteering opportunities contact Ferdia Festival Committee at [email protected]. For the full festival programme, booking information and age guidance, visit: www.louthartsoffice.ie/Ferdia-Festival.