Have a 'spook'tacular time as Longford celebrates Halloween

With Halloween upon us Longford is preparing for a spectacular celebration of Ireland's ancient traditions, as Samhain in the Heartlands continues.

Part of Fáilte Ireland's Ireland, Home of Halloween initiative, the festival brings together events throughout October and into November, celebrating the folklore, mythology and landscapes that inspired Halloween as we know it today.

For the full Samhain in the Heartlands programme, including the latest event information, ticketing details and booking links, visit www.samhainheartlands.ie.

Dead of Night Festival

Longford's Dead of Night Festival continues until October 31, transforming the county into a vibrant celebration of Halloween with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, storytelling, creative workshops and spectacular street performances.

Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences across County Longford , from Halloween-themed activities and performances to atmospheric evening entertainment.

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One of the highlights for families is Halloween HQ, returning to Pig Market Lane in Longford Town on October 29 & 30 from 11am to 4pm. This free, drop-in Halloween hub will feature arts and crafts, face painting, storytelling, music and the popular Midlands Bug & Reptile Zoo.

Families can also take part in the Literary Family Scavenger Hunt, following clues around Longford Town and answering spooky literary-themed questions to claim a book prize.

Fire & Shadows Procession

As darkness falls on Halloween night (Saturday, October 31), Longford Town will come alive with fire, light, music and movement as the Fire & Shadows Procession makes its way through the town centre.Inspired by the ancient traditions of Samhain, this free outdoor celebration brings together local artists, performers and community groups, with illuminated creations, striking visual performances, drumming and dance transforming the streets into an atmospheric Halloween spectacle.

One of the most anticipated events of the Dead of Night Festival, the procession promises a memorable evening of community celebration, with visitors encouraged to arrive early, find a suitable viewing point and plan their journey in advance.

The procession will begin at 7pm on Saturday, October 31, departing from Connolly Barracks and making its way through Bridge Street, Main Street and Ballymahon Street before culminating in a fiery finale on Market Square.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive from approximately 6:30pm to secure a suitable viewing point along the route, with temporary road closures and traffic restrictions in place to facilitate the event.

Samhain Scavenger Hunt in Granard

For families looking for a Halloween adventure during the school midterm break, the Samhain Scavenger Hunt at Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre offers an exciting journey through myth, magic and mystery.Young explorers can search for hidden treats, complete challenges and keep their eyes peeled for mischievous witches, fearsome werewolves and other mysterious creatures as they make their way through the heritage centre.

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Running until Friday October 30 with sessions between 1:30pm and 4:30pm, the experience is suitable for all ages. Multiple sessions are available each day, with advance ticket booking encouraged.

Witches are Wise Women

Witches are Wise Women takes place on Thursday, October 29 at 8pm in Temperance Hall, Longford Town, Co Longford.

Blending live music, theatrical performance, storytelling, satire and Irish folklore, the event explores the women behind the traditional image of the Halloween witch, from healers and carers to prophets and storytellers. The event is suitable for ages 16+, it's a lively and contemporary celebration of Ireland's ancient Samhain traditions, bringing myth, music and a little Halloween mischief together!

A special reduced admission rate is also available locally using the code 'Local' at checkout. You can find further details and tickets HERE.

Halloween Cruise

A Halloween themed boat cruise will set sail three times over Halloween (Saturday, October 31), on board the Lough Ree Access for All boat at Lanesboro / Ballyleague.

The 90 minute boat trip will provide customers with some spooky and mysterious tales of Lough Ree and "what lies beneath"

Literary Family Scavenger Hunt

Families can put their detective skills to the test with a free literary-themed scavenger hunt taking participants around Longford Town on Thursday & Friday, October 29 & 30.

Following a series of spooky clues and questions, children can explore the town and claim a book prize once they've completed the challenge.

Ballymahon Harvest Market

Join us for a magical Outdoor Halloween Harvest Market on Friday, October 30 at Skellys, Ballymahon – a glowing night-time celebration of autumn, food, and creativity.

Explore a vibrant mix of local food producers and handmade craft stalls, with seasonal treats like toffee apples and warm street food favourites.

Enjoy music, fire breathers, atmospheric lighting, and cosy fire pits as the market comes alive after dark. A family-friendly evening full of atmosphere, community, and Halloween spirit – the perfect autumn night out for all ages.

Féile na Samhna at Corlea Trackway

Discover the ancient origins of Samhain at one of Ireland's most remarkable heritage sites, Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, Kenagh. Set against the backdrop of Ireland's largest Iron Age bog road, Féile na Samhna offers family-friendly activities inspired by the music, traditions, stories and heritage of the season.Running from October 27 to November 1, the event is free to attend, with advance booking recommended to secure a place.

Spirit of Samhain Tasting Dinner

Celebrate the season through local food and drink at an exclusive five-course tasting dinner hosted by Skelly's Bar, Ballymahon in collaboration with Lough Ree Distillery.

Running from 7:30pm to 10:30pm on Wednesday, November 4, the evening will showcase locally produced food including Droimeann native Irish beef, selected Irish whiskeys and locally brewed beers, alongside music from local musicians.Advance booking is essential, with guests asked to advise of any dietary requirements when booking.

The Last Wake at Doory Hall

Step beyond the veil for The Last Wake at Doory Hall Demesne, Co Longford - an immersive Halloween experience set within the atmospheric ruins of a historic estate.Combining a candlelit banquet, live music, fire performances and immersive storytelling, the event invites visitors to experience a mysterious gathering inspired by the legends and history of Doory Hall.

The event takes place on Friday, November 6 from 7pm, with the event poster advising a last entry time of 8pm. Advance booking is available.

For the full Samhain in the Heartlands programme, including the latest event information, ticketing details and booking links, visit www.samhainheartlands.ie.

Event information and availability may change. Visitors are advised to check the relevant event listing before travelling.