Malahide Samhain Festival brings a new Halloween experience to Malahide Castle this October
A brand-new Halloween experience is coming to Malahide Castle & Gardens this October, with the launch of the Malahide Samhain Festival, described by organisers as their biggest show to date.
Running from 17th October, the new festival will offer visitors two distinct experiences, with daytime activities aimed particularly at younger children and families, followed by a more atmospheric after-dark celebration inspired by the Irish folklore, storytelling and ancient traditions behind Halloween.
During the Day Experience, visitors can journey through The Haunted Trail, encounter playful characters including Malahide's resident Puck the Jester, and explore the Samhain Forest before discovering more about the ancient traditions associated with Ireland's original Halloween.
The daytime experience is designed for younger children and those who prefer their Halloween with a little less fright, with entry times available until 4.30pm. Costumes are encouraged and the experience promises family-friendly Halloween fun with plenty of surprises along the way.
As darkness falls, the Night Experience takes visitors back through The Haunted Trail and Samhain Forest before arriving at the Samhain Gathering.
Here, guests can enjoy storytelling from Candlelit Tales, live traditionally inspired music and a Food & Drinks Village featuring seasonal treats and hot food. The evening experience is designed to remain family-friendly while offering a more atmospheric setting for Halloween lovers, folklore fans and those curious to discover more about Irish culture and tradition.
Organisers say the festival is intended to bring the story of Samhain and the Irish roots of Halloween to life in an accessible and entertaining way.
The Day Experience costs from €14 plus booking fee, while the Night Experience starts from €18 plus booking fee. Day entry times are available up to 4.30pm, with night entry from 4.45pm until 8pm.
Both experiences include free parking, easy access by public transport and souvenir photo opportunities.
The Malahide Samhain Festival is brought to Malahide Castle & Gardens by McG Entertainment Limited, with the event materials also highlighting partnerships with Malahide Castle, Fáilte Ireland and Explore Fingal.
Event information
Malahide Samhain Festival at Malahide Castle & Gardens
Opens: 17th October 2026
Day Experience: From €14 + booking fee
Night Experience: From €18 + booking fee
Day entry: Up to 4.30pm
Night entry: 4.45pm–8pm
Tickets and booking information will be released shortly.
Slán go fóill.
