Derry Halloween Festival
Derry Halloween, Europe's largest Halloween festival, takes place over four days in the Walled City. Activities include the Awakening the Walled City Trail, Little Horrors, live music, a Carnival Parade, and fireworks over the River Foyle.
What to Expect
Europe's largest Halloween festival celebrating its 40th anniversary.
Event Details
Duration
4 days
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Walled City
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Derry City & Strabane District Council
Food & Drink
Scrumptious street food and delicious food stalls available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Halloween enthusiasts, families, culture seekers
Vibe
Magical, spooky, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
High
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Medium
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE – Get tickets
- Parking: Plenty of car parking and accessible parking is available. Motor home parking will also be available on all four nights of the Festival. More information can be found on their website.
- Accessibility: Derry Halloween is committed to ensuring that events are as accessible and inclusive as possible. More details are available on their accessibility page.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Book free tickets for the enhanced City Walls experience in advance, as they are required for entry to this section.
- Dress warmly and in layers, as October weather in Northern Ireland can be unpredictable, and much of the festival is outdoors.
- Consider booking accommodation early, as Derry Halloween is extremely popular and hotels fill up quickly.
- Embrace the spirit of the festival by dressing up; almost everyone participates, and DIY costumes are encouraged.
- Explore beyond the main festival events to discover local attractions, museums, and nearby sights like the Giant's Causeway.
Special Events & Promotions
- 40th Anniversary celebration in 2026
- Free tickets required for enhanced City Walls experience
- Strabane Halloween events also available
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Derry Halloween taking place?
Derry Halloween will take place from Wednesday 28th October – Sunday 1st November 2026.
Is Derry Halloween still free?
Yes, Derry Halloween remains a free festival. Free tickets are only required to access the designated ticketed section of the Awakening the Walled City experience.
Should I dress up for Derry Halloween?
Yes, dressing up is highly encouraged! Almost everyone participates, and DIY costumes are a great way to get involved.
How do I get to Derry Halloween?
Derry is accessible by air, sea, rail, bus, and road. Detailed travel information is available on their website.
What is the Awakening the Walled City Trail?
It's a magical journey through the City of Bones where spirits and mythical creatures come to life through illumination, performances, and music.
More Halloween Events Near Derry
More Halloween near Derry
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.