The world, as we know it, is a place of routine and predictability. But as the shadows lengthen and the days grow shorter, there comes a moment when the veil between this world and the Otherworld thins. In County Carlow, this ancient transition is not a time for fear, but for celebration. Journey into Samhain Festival 25, a town-wide celebration rooted in the ancient Celtic festival marking the end of the harvest and the coming of winter. This is a time when the veil between worlds is at its thinnest and spirits walk among the living.
This year, Samhain Festival 25 expands into new territory, with haunting happenings at five venues across Carlow: VISUAL, Delta Centre, The Exchange, The Library and Duckett's Grove. Immerse yourself in a world of folklore and fire, where echoes of tradition meet contemporary spectacle - with ghostly tales, haunting performances, fire shows, costumed revelry, eerie art, family fun and music to raise the dead.
Whether you're drawn by whispers from the Otherworld, donning a disguise to confuse the spirits or dancing with little monsters, Samhain Festival 25 invites all souls - young and old, living and... otherwise - to take part.
From 20 October to 2 November, delve into a celebration that honours the past, embraces the present and welcomes the strange, the spooky and the spectacular.
The festival kicks off with an opportunity to Light up your October Bank Holiday weekend and join us on the magnificent grounds of Carlow College and VISUAL for a spectacular night of storytelling through fire displays, movement and haunting vocals. This family-friendly event brings together world-class fire performers ROGU and the magnetic Sexy Tadhg with the team from Rocket Pyro Fireworks. Sparks will fly - this is the hottest ticket in town!
The Festival for 2025 is organised by a partnership of Visual , Carlow County Council , Active Carlow , Carlow Tourism and Delta Centre. Launching the Festival , Leas-Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Cllr. Daniel Pender, said “The Samhain Festival 2025 in Carlow is a testament to how we can honour our past while embracing the future. It's a powerful fusion of ancient Celtic tradition and contemporary artistry, bringing to life the stories, music, and art that define us. From the cinematic chills of a groundbreaking Irish-language film to the haunting beauty of our folk music and the vibrant energy of our local talent, this festival is a true reflection of the creative spirit thriving in Ireland today. It is a celebration for all generations and a wonderful example of how our cultural heritage can continue to inspire and unite our communities."
This is just a glimpse of the magic that awaits. The Samhain Festival 2025 is a tapestry of chills, sounds, and spectacles, but its full story is still being written. Be sure to stay tuned as more events are announced in the coming weeks, promising an even more spellbinding journey.
The Samhain Festival is co-ordinated by a partnership of Carlow County Council & Visual and speaking about the Emma Lucy O’Brien , CEO of Visual said "The Samhain Festival has always been a way for us to explore the intersection of the ancient and the modern," and "This year's programme is a beautiful testament to that, presenting the best of Ireland’s contemporary folk talent and spirit, through cutting-edge cinema, music and performance. It's an invitation to celebrate and appreciate our deep connection with Halloween festivities.”
Welcoming the Festival , Eileen O' Rourke, CEO of Carlow Tourism says, "Carlow has always been a place where our rich heritage meets incredible modern experiences," and "This festival perfectly captures that spirit, offering visitors a chance to engage with our cultural legacy in new and exciting ways, proving that our past is a living, breathing part of our present."
The Samhain Festival at VISUAL promises an immersive experience, inviting audiences to journey through film, folk, and fusion. Whether drawn to the chilling narratives of film or the soulful expressions of music, guests are assured a spellbinding experience that honors the ancient spirit of Samhain through modern art. For further information go to: https://visualcarlow.ie/whats-on/samhain-festival-25