Hocus Pocus for Dóchas set to bring Halloween magic to Offaly

FAMILIES across Offaly are being invited to enjoy a spooktacular morning of Halloween fun as Hocus Pocus for Dóchas returns to Lough Boora Discovery Park on Saturday, October 31st.

Organised by Dóchas Offaly Cancer Support Group, the Halloween Family Fun Day promises something for all ages, with a 5km family walk/run, live actors, entertainment before and after the walk/run, prizes for best dressed, trick or treat bags for all kids, medals for all participants, storytelling in fairy avenue and more surprises along the way. Registration opens at 9.30am, with the walk/run getting underway at 11am. The walk is not chipped or timed – the focus this year being on family fun!

Whether taking part in the 5km, dressing up in their favourite Halloween costume or simply enjoying the atmosphere with family and friends, everyone is encouraged to come along and be part of what promises to be a fantastic community event.

This year’s event is proudly sponsored by Colton Motors, and Dóchas would like to extend its sincere thanks to the team for their generosity and support. The involvement of local businesses is vital to the success of community fundraising initiatives, and Dóchas is delighted to have Colton Motors on board as Event Sponsor.

Dóchas would also like to extend a sincere thank you to Lough Boora Discovery Park and Mid Ireland Adventure for their continued support of the event this year. Lough Boora Disocvery Park is a wonderful amenity on our doorstep and we are delighted to partner with them to bring this event to the heart of the midlands.

While the excitement builds ahead of Halloween, Hocus Pocus for Dóchas has an important purpose at its heart. Dóchas Offaly Cancer Support Group provides a range of supportive services to people living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis, as well as their families and loved ones. Based in Tullamore, the organisation offers counselling, complementary therapies, lymphoedema therapy, physiotherapy and practical support to people affected by cancer throughout Offaly.

A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact not only on the individual but also on those closest to them. The services provided by Dóchas offer support, understanding and a safe space for people navigating what can be an extremely challenging time. Fundraising events such as Hocus Pocus for Dóchas help the organisation continue providing these important services to the local community. This event also raises vital awareness of our charity and ensures no one faces cancer alone!

Businesses across Tullamore and Offaly are also being invited to join in the Halloween fun by dressing up on Friday, October 30th, helping to raise awareness of Dóchas and the upcoming event. Local businesses are encouraged to get their staff involved, embrace the Halloween spirit and spread the word among customers and colleagues.

To make participation easy, the Dóchas team will provide participating businesses with balloons, collection buckets and posters to help promote the charity and the event. A Dóchas representative will also attend your business to get some pictures and say thank you on the day. Businesses interested in taking part can register their interest by emailing [email protected], and the team will arrange to drop out the materials.

With the support of local families, businesses, volunteers and sponsors, Hocus Pocus for Dóchas is an opportunity for the community to come together for a morning of fun while supporting a cause that touches so many lives.

The event takes place at Lough Boora Discovery Park on Saturday, October 31st, with registration from 9.30am and the 5km walk/run starting at 11am.

Registration is available through willwego.com. For further information, contact Dóchas Offaly Cancer Support Group at [email protected].

See you all on 31st October 2026 in Lough Boora Discovery Park from 9.30am!