In Ireland, Halloween has come a long way from its origins as the pagan festival of Samhain, which dates back over 2000 years. Samhain was an important celebration which marked the end of the summer and the beginning of winter. This October, several events will take place in Limerick for the occasion.
22nd-31st, The Scare Factory: One of the oldest locations in Limerick, The Old Cleeve’s Factory. Capacity limited to 60% because of Covid.
22nd – 31st, Curraghchase Pumpkin Patch: Stroll around CurraghChase Garden Centre and pick your own pumpkin from the patch. You can also carve your pumpkin on the spot, using provided utensils. If you don’t feel like carving a pumpkin, you can also visit the storytelling tent or get a hot beverage from one of the two cafés on site.
22nd – 31st, West Limerick Tourism Harvest Festival: To celebrate the start of a new season, the festival unites your favourite local spots to bring you a taste of what West Limerick has to offer. From celebrating local food with chef Brian McDermott to a cocktail night to Celebrity Judged Apple Tart Contest, every one will find something tasteful to do.
23rd-31st, Samhain at King John’s Castle: In partnership with Fidget Feet Aerial Dance, Lumen Street Theatre and Samhain, King John’s Castle will showcase a range of spooky events. Stop for a selfie in a Samhain inspired frame, explore the surroundings of Limerick’s well-known fortress, watch the aerial performances of Figet Feet or the interactive street performances of the Morbid Family Business right outside the castle.
23rd-31st, Samhain at Bunratty: Celebrate old Irish traditions and experience a traditional Samhain at the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Meet spooky characters, explore the haunted castle, follow a Clue Trail, rate your favourite scarecrows, learn about old traditions or visit the fairy village.
25th, Record & CD Market at The Milk Market: Make the best out of the Bank holiday and spend the day browsing through CDs, cassettes and records. You can either buy, sell or exchange – a scarily good deal.
26th-29th, Spooktacular Halloween Tours by Limerick Civic Trust: Starting from the Bishop’s Palace, walk through the graveyard of St.Munchin’s Church as you listen to the spookiest stories.
28th-30th, Samhain Festival: Celebrate folklore and traditions in the streets of Limerick through a series of events. From a Lantern Making Workshop to Storytelling with Helena Byrne to a Fancy Dress Competition, there is a way for everyone to be spooked this Halloween weekend.
29th, Lantern Lit Twilight Walk at Lough Gur Lakeshore: Stroll around the lake shore on a Twilight night as you listen to scary stories.
29th, Trick or Tease Cabaret at The Commercial: Presented by the Wild Atlantic Cabaret and hosted by The Wild Geeze, the event is the perfect way to do something different for Halloween. Music, comedy, burlesque, prizes for the spookiest costumes and even an after party.
31st, The Addams Family at the University Concert Hall, Limerick: To celebrate the film’s 30th anniversary, spend the perfect chilliest Halloween afternoon at UL’s concert hall. The film will start at 3:00 pm. Get your tickets here.
Olivia O'Dwyer 
Joe Costigan 
Sadhbh Pearse