Illustration of a witch in a pointed hat laying out tarot cards on a round table among pumpkins, candles and a fireplace (Gaillimh Ah-Boo! Samhain Festival)

Gaillimh Ah-Boo! Samhain Festival

Gaillimh Ah-Boo! is an expanded, city-wide Halloween celebration in Galway City rooted in folklore, feasting, and fire. Visitors experience vibrant street spectacles, immersive sound and light installations, art exhibitions, and interactive storytelling across the city. The programme showcases community-based events and cultural collaborations honouring the ancient Celtic traditions of Samhain.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

City Centre

Food & Drink

A dedicated museum tasting session highlights traditional Halloween fare, while select evening gatherings offer ceremonial cacao.

Going?

Location

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (2/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (4/5)

Best For

Families, culture enthusiasts, and folklore lovers

Vibe

Mystical, theatrical, and vibrant

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Consult the full schedule online in advance, as individual events take place across various locations and venues throughout Galway City.
  • Advance booking is strongly recommended or required for many workshops and exhibitions, as capacities are often strictly limited.
  • Attendees are encouraged to dress up in Halloween costume to embrace the spirit of Samhain during community street spectacles.

Special Events & Promotions

  • The 2026 programme is expanded this year.

Links & Contact

Run by Galway City Council

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus of Gaillimh Ah-Boo!?

The festival reclaims the ancient Celtic origins of Samhain through myth, magic, folklore, feasting, and community.

Who organizes the festival?

It is presented by Galway City Council as part of Fáilte Ireland’s Home of Halloween Destination Development Scheme, supported by partners including Macnas and Baboró.

Are family-friendly events included?

Yes, the programme features family-oriented activities, including creative workshops, storytelling sessions, exhibitions, and community performances.

Can the public participate in performances?

Certain community events, such as the street dance spectacle in Eyre Square, invite members of the public to learn choreography in advance and dance alongside performers.

Browse Halloween in Galway

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. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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