Lots of spooky fun at this year’s Samhain Festival

THIS YEAR’S Samhain Festival ’25 in Carlow is expanding into spooky new territory, with haunting happenings at five venues across the town: Visual, Delta Centre, The Exchange, the library and Duckett’s Grove. 

From 20 October to 2 November, you can immerse yourself in a world of folklore and fire, where echoes of tradition meet contemporary spectacle, with ghostly tales, haunting performances, fire shows, costumed revelry, eerie art, family fun and music to raise the dead.

The festival kicks off with an opportunity to light up your October Bank Holiday weekend and go to the magnificent grounds of Carlow College and Visual for a spectacular night of storytelling through fire displays, movement and haunting vocals. This family-friendly event brings together world-class fire performers ROGU and the magnetic Sexy Tadhg with the team from Rocket Pyro Fireworks. Sparks will fly – this is going to be the hottest ticket in town!

Launching the festival, leas cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council cllr Daniel Pender said: “The Samhain Festival 2025 in Carlow is a testament to how we can honour our past while embracing the future. It’s a powerful fusion of ancient Celtic tradition and contemporary artistry, bringing to life the stories, music, and art that define us. From the cinematic chills of a groundbreaking Irish-language film to the haunting beauty of our folk music and the vibrant energy of our local talent, this festival is a true reflection of the creative spirit thriving in Ireland today.

“It is a celebration for all generations, and a wonderful example of how our cultural heritage can continue to inspire and unite our communities.” 

The Samhain Festival is co-ordinated by a partnership of Carlow County Council and Visual arts centre. 

For more information, go to https://visualcarlow.ie/whats-on/samhain-festival-25.