As autumn deepens and the nights draw in, Carlow is preparing to embrace the magic, mystery and excitement of Samhain Festival 26, a countywide celebration inspired by the ancient Celtic festival that marks the end of harvest and the beginning of winter. Taking place from 22 October to 1 November, the festival will transform venues across the county with an immersive programme of folklore, music, performance, storytelling, visual arts, family entertainment and Halloween-inspired experiences.
Presented in partnership with VISUAL, Delta Sensory Gardens, Carlow Libraries, The Exchange, Duckett's Grove and a range of community and fringe venues, Samhain Festival 26 invites visitors and residents alike to step beyond the ordinary and experience Carlow through the lens of myth, tradition and imagination.
At VISUAL, audiences can enjoy an extensive programme featuring storytelling, live music, cinema, fire spectacles, family events, art workshops and the hugely popular Spooky Scavenger Hunt. Highlights include the powerful theatrical production The Last Witch Bridget Cleary, the spectacular FIRE NIGHT featuring VolkiDána, family fun days, traditional music, storytelling and a host of creative activities for all ages.
Beyond VISUAL, visitors can wander through Ghosts in the Gardens at Delta Sensory Gardens, discover dragons and theatrical adventures at The Exchange, enjoy creative workshops and spooky storytelling at Carlow Libraries, and immerse themselves in folklore and history at the atmospheric setting of Duckett's Grove. Meanwhile, the Fringe Festival programme will extend the celebrations into towns, villages and rural communities across the county through traditional music sessions, folklore evenings, family farm experiences and Halloween movie nights.
Speaking about the Festival , Niall Scully, Director of VISUAL, said: "Samhain Festival has become one of Carlow's most distinctive cultural celebrations, connecting contemporary audiences with the rich traditions, stories and folklore that have shaped our communities for generations. This year's programme is our most ambitious yet, creating memorable experiences across multiple venues and bringing together artists, performers, families and visitors in a unique celebration of the season. Whether you're drawn by fire, folklore, music, theatre or family fun, there is something for everyone to discover."
Cllr. Tommy Kinsella, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, said: "Samhain is deeply rooted in Ireland's cultural heritage and Carlow is proud to celebrate this important tradition on such a significant scale. The festival showcases the creativity, hospitality and community spirit that exists throughout the county while offering visitors an opportunity to experience Carlow's unique places, stories and traditions. I encourage everyone to get involved and enjoy what promises to be a truly magical festival."
Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development & Enterprise, Carlow County Council, said:
"Samhain Festival 26 represents an important opportunity to showcase Carlow as a vibrant cultural and tourism destination. The festival supports local businesses, attracts visitors to the county and highlights the strength of collaboration between our cultural, tourism and community sectors. Through events taking place across multiple venues and communities, Samhain Festival continues to make a valuable contribution to Carlow's visitor economy while celebrating our unique heritage and creativity."
From ancient traditions and local legends to spectacular performances and family adventures, Samhain Festival 26 promises ten days of unforgettable experiences where the familiar becomes strange and stories come to life.
The Festival is brought to you by Visual , Carlow Tourism , Delta Sensory Gardens and Carlow County Council with Active Carlow.
For More Information
Full programme details, booking information and event schedules are available at: