That’s it: summer is drawing to a close, back-to-school season has begun, and autumn is already showing its first signs of arrival… But let’s not give in to gloom: Ireland has plenty of surprises in store for the months ahead! Here are our top reasons to travel to Ireland in autumn!
Most travelers like to discover Ireland in spring or summer… But don’t forget that in autumn, the country’s landscapes are constantly changing! Its large national parks, forests and lakes are adorned in warm orange hues… Light and color offer ever-changing panoramas…
Not to mention the gentle atmosphere of autumn, when rainy spells offer incredible smells in the middle of the forest, between earth and humus, mushrooms and ferns… Plunge into a 100% natural atmosphere!
Take time to relax in an Irish Pub – RyAwesome – cc
Admittedly, Ireland isn’t exactly known for its sunny weather! But let’s face it, there’s no better guilty pleasure than sitting in a cosy Irish pub when it’s pouring outside!
It’s a chance to warm up by a roaring peat fire, enjoy a hot (or cold) drink, and enjoy the cocooning atmosphere, with a session of Irish music, and an unforgettable chat with other pub-goers!
Add to that a good book, and you’ll never see the time go by! An exceptional moment of simplicity, perfectly in tune with the Irish art of living!
Did you know that Halloween has its origins in Ireland? It was originally a pagan festival, celebrating the beginning of winter, the dead and the living… Known as “Samain”, this festival took place over the course of a single night, when the boundary between spirits and the living was supposed to disappear.
Many rituals and ceremonies were performed by the Irish to celebrate the event, but also to protect themselves from wandering spirits!
Since then, the festival has evolved and is now known as Halloween. Although it has been transformed into a commercial celebration (due to heavy Americanization), Ireland has managed to retain all its authenticity and continues to celebrate the event with conviction!
It’s full of surprises! The Irish love to tell scary stories and legends at this time of year… Jack O’Lantern, ghost stories… The Irish are always very inspiring and love to tell stories! Whether in the pub or elsewhere, they’re always ready to give you a good scare!
You can also visit some magnificent Irish castles, famous for their scary stories. Some are even said to be haunted, and the scene of mystical manifestations!
It’s also worth noting that for Halloween, Ireland loves to organize bonfires! In town and country, gigantic fireplaces are set up, to be set ablaze at night! The show is breathtaking!
Last but not least, you won’t be able to escape the fancy dresses, or the kids knocking on neighbors’ doors as part of their trick-or-treating campaign. It’s all part of the charm of the festival, and believe us: Ireland knows how to celebrate Halloween in the best possible way!
The big Macnas parade in Galway
Every year, Ireland has its share of festivals dedicated to Halloween.
Starting with Galway, which gets into the spirit with its big Macnas parade! One of the city’s highlights, it’s a gigantic parade dedicated to Halloween. Attracting up to 70,000 visitors to the streets, the event brings together some of the country’s greatest artistic talents, and offers you a high-flying phantasmagorical parade!
Decorated floats, giant sculptures, dancers and musicians… The atmosphere is fabulous and electric! Usually, the parade selects a specific theme, and tells you a story from start to finish, drawing on Irish tales and legends. It’s the perfect introduction to local folklore, and a festive atmosphere to match!
Finally, don’t miss the Púca Festival, another hyper-festive event, which takes place in Drogheda, Athboy and Trim. The celebration includes a wide range of events: light shows, haunted castle visits, concerts and spooky storytelling…
A real institution in Ireland if you want to celebrate Halloween!
Irish stew served at Five Points in Belfast
Of course, it often rains in Ireland, and even more so in autumn… But let’s face it: there’s nothing better in the world than warming up with a good Irish dish! Ireland is a specialist in comfort food! Start with our delicious scones, to be enjoyed with a cup of Irish tea! Not to mention the famous Irish stew, which melts in your mouth and makes you forget the day’s harsh weather!
Don’t forget to try our seafood chowder, a delicious fish soup, or our famous breakfast: the perfect way to start the day and warm hearts and stomachs!
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