A few kilometres north of Dublin, the grounds of Malahide Castle take on the feel of an enchanted forest as Halloween approaches. The Malahide Samhain Festival, presented under the banner of The Haunted Trail, offers an immersive experience inspired by Irish Samhain traditions: mysterious characters, woodland trails, folklore tales and music. Set around a medieval castle associated with several legends, it makes for a particularly distinctive autumn outing.
The festival is aimed especially at families, but it is not just for children: two options let visitors choose between a playful daytime walk and a more atmospheric experience after nightfall. It is also an accessible way to explore the link between modern Halloween and the Irish imagination.
The main trail winds through the estate’s woodland areas. Along the way, Halloween sets, surprises and costumed characters invite visitors to step into a story rather than simply observe installations. Announced encounters include Puck the Jester, the jester associated with the legends of Malahide Castle. The tone remains deliberately family-friendly: expect playful chills rather than an extreme horror attraction.
The Samhain Forest celebrates the beliefs and traditions of ancient Ireland. Depending on the edition and the announced programme, activities may explore harvests, crafts, oral storytelling and the objects that came before today’s Halloween pumpkins, such as carved turnips. The castle has notably presented a Celtic village with craft demonstrations and folklore-inspired activities. Check the details of workshops before each visit.
As daylight fades, the evening option gives access to the Samhain Gathering, a gathering space dedicated to stories and music. The announced performances feature storytellers from Candlelit Tales and Celtic musicians, sharing tales connected with Samhain, Irish legends and the castle. Seasonal food and drinks are also available to buy on site.
The Day Experience offers a lighter atmosphere. It is particularly suited to young children and visitors who prefer mischievous characters to serious scares. It includes the trail and an introduction to the world of Samhain.
The Night Experience features the same elements in a more theatrical atmosphere, once night has fallen. It also includes access to the gathering, with storytelling and music. The organiser still presents this option as family-friendly, while making it appealing to adults with an interest in folklore. When choosing, consider the children’s ages, their sensitivity to darkness and when you would like to return to Dublin.
In Irish tradition, Samhain marks the transition from the light season to winter, around late October and early November. This period is associated with gatherings, storytelling and beliefs concerning encounters between the world of the living and the Otherworld. Customs have evolved over the centuries and contributed to the history of Halloween: the festival offers a contemporary interpretation, rather than a historical re-enactment to be taken literally.
To explore this heritage further, see our guide to Halloween in Ireland and our article on the Aos Sí and Samhain beliefs.
The setting is an integral part of the experience. Located in the coastal town of Malahide, north of Dublin, Malahide Castle & Gardens has a centuries-long history linked to the Talbot family. Its gardens and woodland provide a natural setting particularly well suited to a Halloween walk. Puck, a figure from local folklore, creates a link between the castle’s heritage and the festival’s activities.
The festival takes place mainly in the estate’s outdoor spaces: do not assume that your ticket includes a visit to the castle’s historic rooms. This may require a separate ticket. A trip to Malahide can also be extended with a stroll through the village or along the coast, depending on the weather and your schedule.
Book a time slot in advance, especially during school holidays, at weekends and on Halloween night. Tickets, opening times and activities vary from one edition to the next: always check the official ticket office before setting off. The festival is held outdoors, so bring footwear suitable for paths, warm clothing and rain protection. A costume can add to the fun for children, but it is no substitute for practical clothing.
Malahide can be reached from Dublin by public transport, including the DART and bus services, followed by a walk depending on your arrival point. Check the last departures if you choose the evening option. The estate also advertises on-site parking; availability and access arrangements should be confirmed for the relevant edition.
For dates, prices, time slots and booking, visit the official Malahide Samhain Festival website. The event is organised by Follow Fox Events.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
53.450625, -6.153613
From 17 to 31 October 2026
Check the opening hours and admission requirements before you leave, especially during peak season or on Irish public holidays.
Prices may vary depending on the session chosen. Additional booking fees may apply.
