Halloween is one of our favourite holidays in Ireland. We have finally accepted that the summer is over and we embrace the cosines of winter and the imminent darkness that will fall upon us on Sunday! Ireland small group tours has listed some events around Ireland.
Halloween’s or Samhain’s origins began with the pagan Celts 2000 when they celebrated their new year on the 1st of November. It is similar to the modern new years celebration each year – out with the old and in with the new. Crops would have been gathered, animals brought in from the cold and everyone would settle down for the winter period. The souls of the departed would return to this world on the 31st of October when malevolent spirits were visible to mankind! Hence the traditions of gouls, ghosts and goblins. Being ‘between years’ or ‘in transition’, the usually fairly stable boundaries between the Otherworld and the human world became less secure so that puka, banshees, fairies and other spirits could come and go quite freely. There were also ‘shape shifters’ at large. This is where the dark side of Halloween originated.
If you are lucky enough to be on one of the Ireland small group tours this week here are a list of cool things to do:
Carnevil – Galway City
If you love a good scare then this frightening maze of zombies, ghosts and general creepy monsters is for you. Even the toughest of souls can be seen screaming from start to finish at this Galway attraction! They will provide you with photographic evidence of your frights at the end which will bring a smile to your face.
Bram Stoker Festival – Dublin
This spooky festival, named after Dracula’s creator, runs from the 28th – 31st of October across Dublin City. There are a huge selection of scary parades by Macnas, plays, a horror expo, storytelling, Halloween movies and more to be enjoyed. Check out their website for the full itinerary: http://www.bramstokerfestival.com.
Macnas Parade – Galway City
The Macnas Parade is the most celebrated parade in the whole country. This year’s theme is called ‘Saving Grace’. It is guaranteed to be an unforgettable spectacle of giants, musicians and scary creatures. Spectators are encouraged to dress up too and interact with the performers. Take a trip into the city of the Tribes at 17:30 and celebrate Halloween.
The Zombie Run – Dublin
Run for your life with your Halloween costume of choice. Let yourself be chased by Zombies through a 5k obstacle course. Get fit and get scared all at once! A great way to celebrate Halloween on your tour of Ireland. The run starts at Malahide Castle in Dublin.
Virginia Pumpkin Festival – Cavan
There are a host of activities for all the family in Virginia, County Cavan this year. Check out their Facebook page for a list of events.
If you want to have more info on the subject above or about Ireland small group tours, give us a shout by phone or email and don`t forget to visit our website on: https://overlandirelandtours.com/
