Ireland Home of Halloween Programme Launch

Pictured at the official launch of the Fingal Home of Halloween 2026 programme at Howth Castle were, from left: Declan Power (Fingal County Council), Cllr Tony Murphy (Mayor of Fingal), Ciara Sugrue (Head of Dublin, Fáilte Ireland)
Photo: Coalesce

Explore Fingal launched an impressive programme of events for Ireland Home of Halloween 2026 with more than 100 events in over 20 venues. The launch took place at one of those venues, Howth Castle, which is hosting several different events during October.

Now in its second year, Ireland Home of Halloween is a collaborative all-island programme led by Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland that celebrates the island’s role as the birthplace of Halloween through festivals and visitor experiences inspired by Samhain traditions. Fingal is one of the seven counties chosen as Ireland Home of Halloween hubs.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tony Murphy, said, “Home of Halloween celebrates Ireland as the birthplace of Samhain and our 2026 events promote our very special connection to Halloween through performance, storytelling, spectacle and spooky experiences. There are events suited to all ages and stages of life whether you’re a foodie, a history fiend or seeking family fun. With vintage cinema screenings in Balbriggan, writer’s workshops in Howth, Harvest food and fine dining in Naul, ghost stories in Blanchardstown and Goddesses in Skerries, there truly is a unique experience for every person to enjoy.”

Celebrations of Halloween start as the evenings draw in from the beginning of October when Fingal will come alive with myths and legend, herbs and hexes, goddesses and ghost stories. Many events are free of charge, welcoming everyone and they range from fun family-friendly affairs to an exploration of the darker side of Samhain. Every venue, from the libraries and art centres to Fingal’s historic castles, is bringing ancient traditions to life by merging them with modern-day celebrations that are fun, vibrant and truly unique.

AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, commented, “Following a successful programme of events in 2025, I am pleased to introduce an exciting event programme for Fingal’s second year as part of the Home of Halloween. Irish people are very lucky to be part of a culture with fascinating Samhain traditions, and we are delighted to celebrate them in partnership with Fáilte Ireland. Home of Halloween is a great reason to visit Fingal, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from home and abroad to enjoy local food and tourism experiences during the spooky season.”

Paul Mockler, newly appointed Head of Business, Festivals & Major Sports Events, Fáilte Ireland said, “We’re pleased to support Fingal 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.”