There are few better places to launch a Halloween festival than a centuries-old castle, and this month Howth Castle was honoured to open its doors for exactly that.
Explore Fingal chose the castle as the setting to unveil its programme for Ireland Home of Halloween 2026 — more than 100 events across over 20 venues right through the county. Howth Castle is proud to be one of those venues, with a full run of its own Samhain events during October.
Now in its second year, Ireland Home of Halloween is an all-island programme led by Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland. It celebrates the island's place as the birthplace of Halloween, drawing on the ancient Samhain traditions that first marked the turning of the year. Fingal is one of just seven counties chosen as a hub.
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."
From the beginning of October, as the evenings draw in, Fingal comes alive with myths and legend, herbs and hexes, goddesses and ghost stories. Many of the events are free, and they run the full range from family-friendly fun to the darker side of Samhain, with every venue, from libraries and arts centres to the county's historic castles, bringing old traditions to life alongside something more modern.
AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, added: "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."
Howth Castle's own contribution to the programme runs from 28 October to 1 November: candlelit tours through the castle's shadowy halls, hands-on Feast of Samhain cookery classes, a foraging and folklore workshop in the grounds, a five-course candlelit supper club, a Halloween class for tweens and teens, and a writing workshop and storytelling evening with Hooks & Reels. Places are limited, so early booking is advised.
Posted on 24 Sep 2026.
