“It’s about people being creators of culture rather than simply consumers”

placeholder image — NW Carnival Initiative’s Jim Collins.

Inclusivity: Community groups gearing up for Halloween celebrations

With Halloween just over a week away, Derry is gearing up for the city's biggest annual celebrations.

Amongst the ghouls and gobbelms, the heart of the Derry Halloween Carnival is the number of community groups that take part in the popular parad before the fireworks display.

Jim Collins of North West Carnival Initiative spoke of the inclusivity of the Halloween festival and of its importance to the people of Derry.

“Halloween is a special time for Derry people in particular,” he said, “It’s about people engaging, participating, and celebrating.”

He said that the parade was initiated by the people of Derry when “it was centred around the bars in Waterloo Street back in the black and white days” and “ordinary people just spontaneously dressed up. Everybody loves to dress up – when you don a mask you can be anyone you want.”

Participation is key, said Mr Collins, and the parade offers an opportunity for the whole community to get involved.

“There’s over 600 participants in the parade and we have dozens of volunteers,” he said.

The parade includes a cross representation of all sectors of the community, from primary school to grannies and grandads. The NW Carnival Initiative has a database of volunteers and they put a call out every year on social media asking people if they wish to join – all are welcome.

Volunteer costume maker Helen Quigley.

“It’s inclusive of all the different groups and communities - it includes Protestant and Catholic, people who are gay or disabled, people of no religion, Hindus and Muslims - and we have the new and emerging communities represented.

“There's a large Filipino community here, and they regularly participate, The African and Caribbean community are represented.

“It’s about people being creators of culture rather than simply consumers of culture.”

Mr Collins said that Derry, Strabane and Donegal have an abundance of performers and dance groups – modern dance, ballet and contemporary dance will all be on display. There will be the usual pipe bands, accordion bands and “our very own North West Carnival Samba band.”

Mr Collins said they are particularly excited this year about a new kickboxing club from Creggan joining, called the Rathmore Warriors. They also have a new group of 70 participants coming from the City of Derry Rugby Club – parents, children and coaches - who have been busy for several weeks creating props for the parade.

NW Samba band member Nathan McCrossan.

Mr Collins said they have been preparing for Halloween parade since St Patricks Day.

“A lot of work and effort goes into it from our artistic team, who are also supported by a dedicated group of volunteers. Without their effort we wouldn’t be able to deliver what we do,” said Mr Collins.

The parade starts at 7.00pm Thursday, October 31 in the Council car park on Strand Road.

For more information and the events brochure go to www.derryhalloween.co