Limerick's Halloween festival Samhain returns this October bank holiday weekend

LIMERICK’S Halloween Festival, Samhain, featuring Lumen Street Theatre's Fire and Shadows Parade will return this October bank holiday weekend.

Presented by Lumen Street Theatre, this year's theme introduces the Spirits of the Forest along with the illustrious Bishop’s Lady, the ghostly tale from the Bard of Thomond. 

The festival of Samhain celebrates Ireland as the original birthplace of Halloween. 

This experience, taking place from Thursday, October 24, to Sunday, October 27, will take visitors on “an immersive journey through the realms of darkness and light, where spirits, mythical creatures, and ethereal beings converge, to mark the thinning of the veil between the living and the otherworld”.

Ciara Sugrue, head of festivals and events at Fáilte Ireland said: “Festivals and events play a crucial role in showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Ireland, providing both overseas and domestic visitors with a unique reason to choose a destination. The Fire & Shadows Procession in Limerick is a perfect example of how we can celebrate our heritage as the Home of Halloween, engage our diaspora, and create unforgettable experiences for all. By bringing together diverse activities and traditions, we not only boost tourism but also strengthen the bonds within our communities. 

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“We are pleased to collaborate with Lumen Street Theatre, Limerick City and County Council and the Night-Time Economy Unit in the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media on this exciting event, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Limerick this Halloween for this special celebration,” she continued.

Lumen Street Theatre strives to add to the vibrant artistic life of Limerick city and county, collaborating with local communities in co-creating “innovative and inspiring” works. 

Lumen Street’s work is designed and created in the former Bannatyne Grain Store built in 1839 in the heart of Limerick city, where the space informs “new ways of interpreting stories of the past”.

Samhain: Limerick’s Hallowe'en Festival and Fire & Shadows Parade is supported by Fáilte Ireland, the Arts Council of Ireland, and Limerick City and County Council.