'Authentic Halloween experiences': Longford looking forward to spooktacular

​Samhain in the Heartlands 2026 is underway, with a rich calendar of Halloween events across Longford and Westmeath, in the heart of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands.

​The 2026 programme features around 50 events across both counties, bringing together fire and shadow processions, immersive performances, traditional music, storytelling, feasting, family activities and experiences at ancient sites, drawing on the folklore, mythology and landscapes behind the origins of Halloween in Ireland.

The programme is delivered by Longford County Council and Westmeath County Council, supported by Fáilte Ireland, in partnership with artists, cultural organisations, tourism operators, community groups, volunteers and local businesses.

Pillar events include Longford's Dead of Night Festival, running from October 23-to- 31, a spectacular county-wide celebration of music, theatre, family fun and Halloween experiences across various venues.

One of the most eagerly anticipated events is the Fire and Shadows Procession on October 31, where flames dance, shadows awaken and ancient traditions ignite the streets of Longford Town drawing crowds of spectators.

Family audiences are equally well catered for, with The Samhain Gathering and Samhain After Dark at Belvedere running from October 24 to 25, offering a world of mischief and magic for all the family at the historic Mullingar estate.

The season draws to a close with An Tairseach: Samhain ar Uisneach from November 7 - 8, a spectacular celebration of Samhain at Ireland's sacred centre, where ancient traditions come alive across one of the country's most storied landscapes.

New to this year's programme, highlights include a high-end collaborative Spirit of Samhain Tasting Dinner with Lough Ree Distillery, Skelly's Bar and Droimeann Beef; Samhain – The Spooktacular Summoning at Dún na Sí in Moate, Co. Westmeath; a new immersive masquerade food, culture and heritage event, The Last Wake at Doory Hall; and a new When The Veil Thins – Street Procession in Athlone.

Paul Mockler, Head of Business, Festivals and Major Sports Events, Fáilte Ireland, said they are very pleased to support Samhain in the Heartlands as part of Ireland Home of Halloween.

"The success of the programme in 2025 demonstrated the strong appeal of authentic Halloween experiences rooted in Ireland's traditions and folklore.

"This year, visitors from home and overseas will have even more reasons to explore destinations across the island during the autumn season.

"By working in partnership with local authorities and communities, we're showcasing the very best of our cultural heritage, creating distinctive visitor experiences that will encourage travel beyond the traditional peak season, generate economic benefits for local areas and support sustainable tourism growth.''

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Gerry Hagan said, "We are thrilled to unveil this year's Samhain in the Heartlands programme, which builds on the fantastic response we saw across Longford and Westmeath in 2025.

“From the Dead of Night Festival to the Fire and Shadows Procession lighting up the streets of Longford Town, this programme showcases the very best of the region’s culture, creativity and community. We look forward to welcoming visitors from home and abroad to experience it for themselves."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council Samantha Healy added, "Longford's participation in Samhain in the Heartlands continues to grow and strengthen each year.

"The programme highlights the county's unique heritage while helping to extend the tourism season and create opportunities for local businesses and communities. We look forward to seeing Longford come alive this October as part of Ireland, 'Home of Halloween'."