Just a few kilometres from Dublin, the gardens of Malahide Castle will take on the feel of an enchanted forest this Halloween. From 17 to 31 October 2026, the castle will host The Haunted Trail: Malahide Samhain Festival, a family experience that does more than simply fill the grounds with ghosts and pumpkins: it celebrates the Irish traditions that helped shape Halloween.
A Samhain festival in the gardens of Malahide Castle
Organised by Follow Fox Events, the event will take over the outdoor spaces at Malahide Castle & Gardens in County Dublin. Organisers have announced an immersive trail spanning several settings: a lively woodland path, an area dedicated to Samhain traditions, storytelling sessions and a seasonal food village. The festival forms part of efforts to highlight Ireland as the birthplace of many customs associated with Halloween.
A haunted trail of characters and legends
The Haunted Trail will lead visitors through the estate’s woods, among theatrical sets and encounters. Announced characters include Puck, the prankster associated with Malahide’s ghost stories. The trail has been designed for families: visitors looking for a gentler atmosphere may prefer the daytime option, while the experience becomes more atmospheric after nightfall.
Carved turnips, crafts and tales of ancient Ireland
The programme presented by the castle also includes a Samhain Celtic village, where visitors can discover traditional practices, including turnip carving, as well as craft demonstrations. It is a reminder that before pumpkins became ubiquitous, Halloween lanterns in Ireland were also made from root vegetables.
A storytelling stage will feature Irish myths and tales associated with Samhain, accompanied by traditional music. Organisers have announced, in particular, stories about the Cailleach, a figure from Irish folklore associated with winter and wild landscapes. The exact programme of activities may change, so it is best to check official information before visiting.
Two ways to experience Halloween: by day or after dark
By day, an adventure suited to younger visitors
The daytime experience is primarily aimed at children and those who prefer a less frightening atmosphere. The trail will combine mischievous characters, surprises and an introduction to traditions. Fancy dress is encouraged. This is an outdoor activity on the castle estate, rather than a conventional tour of its historic rooms.
In the evening, the stories take over
From 16:45, the evening experience adds a gathering led by storytellers from Candlelit Tales, with live musicians, to the trail and Samhain forest. Both options are presented as family-friendly, but the evening version places greater emphasis on shadows, lights and the atmosphere of legend. A food area will offer hot drinks and seasonal specialities for purchase.
Why is Samhain at the heart of this Irish Halloween?
In ancient Ireland, Samhain marked the transition into the dark season, around the end of October and the beginning of November. This period held an important place in the seasonal calendar and in traditional stories. Tales of encounters with the Otherworld, gatherings and various folk customs have contributed, over the centuries and through religious and cultural changes, to Halloween’s complex history.
However, it would be misleading to present the Malahide festival as an exact reconstruction of an ancient ceremony: it is a contemporary tourism creation inspired by Irish folklore and traditions. Its originality lies precisely in offering families a playful introduction to this heritage, in a place steeped in history.
How to enjoy the Malahide Samhain Festival in 2026
Dates, venue and booking
The festival is scheduled to run from 17 to 31 October 2026 at Malahide Castle & Gardens, north of Dublin. Times vary according to the option chosen; the evening version begins from 16:45. Prices vary by age, time slot and family offers. Advance booking is recommended, particularly as 31 October approaches. For up-to-date times and prices, see the event’s official website or the Discover Ireland listing.
An outing from Dublin
Malahide lies on the coast, north of the capital, and can be included in a day trip from Dublin. The castle is surrounded by a large wooded estate, while Malahide village and its seafront offer ways to extend the day. As the event takes place mainly outdoors in October, bring warm, waterproof clothing and shoes suitable for the park’s paths.
Sources: Malahide Castle & Gardens, Follow Fox Events, Discover Ireland and Dublin.ie; information consulted on 21 September 2026.
