Discover Ireland, the True Home of Halloween
There’s nowhere quite like Ireland in autumn – golden leaves, misty mornings, fires glowing in old stone cottages, and stories that make your skin tingle. This year, Tourism Ireland is reminding the world that Ireland is the true Home of Halloween. The national campaign celebrates the island as the birthplace of the festival, where the ancient Celtic celebration of Samhain first marked the end of harvest and the beginning of winter.
Here in Fingal, Malahide Castle & Gardens becomes one of the most atmospheric places to experience that magic. Just 30 minutes from Dublin city, this 800-year-old castle combines rich history, mysterious legends, and stunning gardens that come alive with autumn colour. If you’re looking for a place that captures both the heritage and fun of Halloween, Malahide Castle is the perfect destination.
Learn more about the Ireland: Home of Halloween campaign at tourismireland.com.
The Ancient Roots of Halloween
Long before Halloween meant costumes and candy, the Celts celebrated Samhain, marking the end of harvest and the start of winter. It was believed that on this night, the veil between the living and the spirit world was at its thinnest – when the departed could return and fairies roamed freely. People lit bonfires to protect their homes and wore disguises to confuse wandering spirits.
Over centuries, those rituals evolved into the Halloween traditions we know today – from dressing up to carving pumpkins and sharing ghost stories. But the spirit of Samhain still lingers in Ireland’s landscapes, castles, and folklore.
That’s what makes Ireland the perfect place to celebrate Halloween – not as a commercial holiday, but as a living part of our heritage.
Why Visit Ireland for Halloween
There’s something truly special about spending Halloween in Ireland – it’s more about atmosphere than fright. Here are a few reasons to make it your autumn getaway this year:
1. Authentic Origins
Ireland isn’t just another place that celebrates Halloween – it’s where the story began. When you walk through ancient towns, castles, and fields, you’re stepping through the original landscape of Samhain.
2. Spooky Heritage & Seasonal Beauty
Ireland’s castles and gardens transform in autumn. The trees turn amber, mist drifts through the parks, and every stone tower feels alive with stories. Few places capture that mood better than Malahide Castle, surrounded by 260 acres of parkland and gardens that glow in autumn light.
3. Festivals Full of Heart
With support from Fáilte Ireland and local authorities, communities across Ireland are creating Halloween experiences that blend heritage, creativity, and fun. Expect light shows, storytelling, and family-friendly events that celebrate both past and present.
4. Easy Access from Dublin
Malahide Castle is only 13 km from Dublin city centre and easily reached by DART train or bus. It’s an ideal day trip or weekend escape and a great base for exploring more of Fingal’s Halloween events.
Malahide Castle: History, Hauntings and Autumn Magic
Dating back to 1185, Malahide Castle has been part of Irish history for over 800 years. It was home to the Talbot family for generations, witnessing everything from medieval battles to Georgian splendour.
With its turrets, grand halls, and secret rooms, it’s easy to imagine the castle’s ghosts still wandering. Tales include Puck, the mischievous court jester who reportedly fell in love with a noblewoman and haunts one of the towers, and the mysterious Lady in White, seen gliding through the Great Hall. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you can’t deny the castle’s atmosphere, especially after dark.
Beyond its haunted halls, the grounds are equally beautiful. The Butterfly House, Walled Garden, and West Lawn make for a perfect autumn walk before the evening’s spooky adventures begin.
Plan your visit at malahidecastleandgardens.ie.
Halloween Events at Malahide Castle & Gardens
Every October, Malahide transforms into one of Ireland’s top Halloween destinations. Here’s what’s on this year:
The Haunted Trail
This family-friendly outdoor walk brings the castle grounds to life with glowing lights, eerie sound effects, and fun surprises around every corner. Expect carved pumpkins, live characters, and plenty of magical moments for all ages.
Tickets and info: malahidecastleandgardens.ie/the-haunted-trail.
A Traitorous Tale
An immersive ghost mystery experience inside the castle, after dark. Step into the story as costumed actors reveal dark secrets from the castle’s past — full of intrigue, drama, and suspense. Adults-only.
3 characters – who could be the traitor amongst us, duh, duh, duh?!
Details available at eventsinfingal.ie.
Fingal Festival of Fire
On Halloween night, Malahide joins Swords, Skerries, and Blanchardstown for the spectacular Fingal Festival of Fire. Expect a live DJ, family entertainment, and a breathtaking fireworks finale over the castle.
Find times and locations at fingal.ie/events/fingal-festival-fire.
Together, these events offer something for everyone – from families with young children to adults seeking something a bit more thrilling.
More Halloween Fun Around Fingal
If you’re planning a weekend trip, you’ll find plenty more to explore nearby. Fingal’s mix of coast and countryside makes it one of Ireland’s best regions for Halloween adventures.
- Swords Castle – Explore guided night tours and ghostly tales in this restored medieval fortress.
- Skerries Mills – Enjoy family-friendly fire shows, craft stalls, and local food in this charming seaside village.
- Pumpkins After Dark at Newbridge House & Farm – A breathtaking outdoor attraction featuring over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins, creative light displays, and glowing sculptures throughout the historic estate grounds. It’s one of Ireland’s most photogenic and family-friendly Halloween experiences.
Tickets HERE - Ardgillan Castle – Another beautiful Fingal estate often hosting storytelling evenings and spooky walks through the gardens.
See the full Fingal Halloween programme at eventsinfingal.ie/home-of-halloween.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Malahide Castle & Gardens are located in the seaside village of Malahide, only 25 minutes from Dublin city by DART train. You can also reach it by car (around 30 minutes via the M1 or R106). Free parking is available on site.
Directions and visitor info: visitdublin.com/malahide-castle.
Tickets & Opening Hours
The castle and gardens are open year-round, but Halloween events require separate tickets. It’s best to book early – events like The Haunted Trail and A Traitorous Tale often sell out.
Where to Stay
Malahide and nearby Swords or Portmarnock offer a range of cosy hotels, guesthouses, and seaside B&Bs. Discover Ireland and Visit Dublin list accommodation options and travel deals for the Halloween season.
What to Bring
Irish autumn weather can be unpredictable – think sunshine one minute, drizzle the next. Bring waterproof layers, comfortable shoes, and a warm hat for evening events.
Make the Most of the “Home of Halloween
The Ireland: Home of Halloween campaign, led by Tourism Ireland and supported by Fáilte Ireland, isn’t just about ghosts and pumpkins – it’s about celebrating a rich cultural tradition. Across the island, visitors can take part in fire festivals, folklore walks, pumpkin trails, and spooky tours that weave ancient stories into modern celebrations.
Watch the campaign film and discover more about events nationwide at tourismireland.com.
Where History Meets Halloween
Malahide Castle & Gardens is more than a visitor attraction – it’s a living storybook of Ireland’s history and a key destination in the Home of Halloween campaign. From haunted halls and candle-lit trails to fireworks and family fun, every corner of the estate brims with autumnal magic.
So this Halloween, don’t just celebrate – come home to where it all began. Walk through the glowing gardens, listen to centuries-old tales, and feel the true spirit of Halloween in the heart of Fingal.
Plan your visit at malahidecastleandgardens.ie
Explore national events via tourismireland.com
Discover more Fingal happenings at eventsinfingal.ie
Find travel ideas on failteireland.ie and visitdublin.com