One Last Taste of Halloween in the Heartlands!
Halloween may have come and gone, but the celebrations are far from over in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, as Samhain in the Heartlands continues across Longford and Westmeath until Sunday, 8th November.
Part of Fáilte Ireland's Ireland, Home of Halloween initiative, the festival has brought together around 50 events throughout October and into November, celebrating the folklore, mythology and landscapes that inspired Halloween as we know it today.
Following weeks of family-friendly adventures, spectacular fire processions, traditional storytelling and community celebrations, the festival now enters its final days, with a unique programme of food, immersive experiences and ancient traditions still to come.
Whether you're a food lover, folklore enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable autumn experience, here's your guide to the final events taking place across the region this November.
Three Samhain experiences still to come
Spirit of Samhain Tasting Dinner | 4th November | Skelly's Bar, Ballymahon, Co. Longford
Celebrate the season through local food and drink at an exclusive five-course tasting dinner hosted by Skelly's Bar in collaboration with Lough Ree Distillery.
Running from 7:30pm to 10:30pm, the evening will showcase locally produced food including Droimeann native Irish beef, selected Irish whiskeys and locally brewed beers, alongside music from local musicians.
Advance booking is essential, with guests asked to advise of any dietary requirements when booking.
Tickets and further information here
The Last Wake at Doory Hall | 6th November | Doory Hall, Demesne, Co. Longford
Step beyond the veil for The Last Wake at Doory Hall, an immersive Halloween experience set within the atmospheric ruins of a historic estate.
Combining a candlelit banquet, live music, fire performances and immersive storytelling, the event invites visitors to experience a mysterious gathering inspired by the legends and history of Doory Hall.
The event takes place on Friday, 6th November, from 7pm, with the event poster advising a last entry time of 8pm. Advance booking is available.
Tickets and further information here
An Tairseach: Samhain ar Uisneach | 7th - 8th November | Hill of Uisneach, Westmeath
Samhain in the Heartlands reaches its spectacular finale at the Hill of Uisneach, Ireland's sacred ancient centre.
Across two days, visitors can experience live music, exhibitions, storytelling, performances and ancient traditions, culminating in a torchlit procession and the lighting of the sacred Samhain Fire.
Taking place on 7th and 8th November, with activities from 3pm, visitors are encouraged to book early.
Tickets and further information here
Make a weekend of it in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Beyond the festival, Longford and Westmeath offer plenty of opportunities for visitors to extend their stay and discover the region's rich heritage, landscapes and outdoor experiences.
Visitors can explore Belvedere House, Gardens & Park in Westmeath, discover the heritage and traditions of the region at Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park in Moate, or enjoy the scenic Greenways and walking and cycling routes across both counties.
The historic Hill of Uisneach also offers visitors an opportunity to discover one of Ireland's most culturally significant landscapes, subject to seasonal access and tour availability.
In Longford, the outdoor trails at Corlea Trackway provide another opportunity to enjoy the region's natural beauty. Visitors should note, however, that the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre and its facilities close for the winter season from Wednesday, 4th November.
With a combination of ancient heritage, local food, scenic landscapes and cultural experiences, there's plenty to discover across Ireland's Hidden Heartlands beyond Halloween itself.
Know Before You Go: Essential visitor information
With the final Samhain in the Heartlands events taking place across Longford and Westmeath, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and check the latest event information before travelling.
Tickets and booking: Advance booking is required or recommended for several remaining events. The Spirit of Samhain Tasting Dinner has limited booking availability, while The Last Wake at Doory Hall is sold out. Visitors should check individual event listings for the latest ticket availability, admission prices and booking details.
Getting there: Visitors are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, particularly for events taking place in rural locations. Check venue directions, parking arrangements and public transport options before travelling.
Dress for the weather: Some festival experiences, particularly at the Hill of Uisneach, take place outdoors. Visitors are encouraged to wrap up warm, bring waterproof clothing and wear comfortable, suitable footwear.
Accessibility: Visitors with specific accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact the relevant event organiser in advance to confirm facilities and arrangements.
Plan your visit: Visitors interested in exploring the wider region should check the opening hours and seasonal availability of individual attractions before travelling, particularly Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, which closes for winter from 4th November.
For the full Samhain in the Heartlands programme, including the latest event information, ticketing details and booking links, visit www.samhainheartlands.ie.
Event information and availability may change. Visitors are advised to check the relevant event listing before travelling.
Slán go fóill.
