Samhain in the Heartlands unveils exciting, vibrant programme of events for Halloween this year
Samhain in the Heartlands has unveiled its programme for 2026 which is a rich calendar of Halloween events set to unfold across Westmeath and Longford.
The two counties are set to become hubs of Halloween activity this October and November. There are around 50 events set to take place across the neighbouring counties.
Part of Fáilte Ireland’s Nationwide Home of Halloween initiative Samhain in the Heartlands returns to the festival hubs of Westmeath and Longford from Friday, October 2, until Sunday, November 8.
The events on offer are set to feature processions, performance, music, storytelling, feasting, family activities and experiences at ancient sites. Many of these events will draw on the folklore, mythology, and landscapes behind the origins of Halloween in Ireland.
Westmeath County Council and their Longford Counterpart have delivered this programme thanks to the support from Fáilte Ireland and their partnerships with local artists, cultural organisations, tourism operators, community groups, volunteers and local business.
Family audiences are set to be well catered for, with The Samhain Gathering and Samhain After Dark at Belvedere running from October 24 and 25, offering a world of mischief and magic for all the family at the historic Mullingar estate.
The season draws to a close with An Tairseach: Samhain at Uisneach from November 7 until November 8, a spectacular celebration of Samhain at Ireland's sacred centre, where ancient traditions come alive across one of the country's most storied landscapes.
New to this year's programme, highlights include a high-end collaborative Spirit of Samhain Tasting Dinner with Lough Ree Distillery, Skelly's Bar and Droimeann Beef; Samhain – The Spooktacular Summoning at Dún na Sí in Moate, Co. Westmeath; a new immersive masquerade food, culture and heritage event, The Last Wake at Doory Hall; and a new When The Veil Thins – Street Procession in Athlone.
Paul Mockler, Head of Business, Festivals and Major Sports events with Fáílte Ireland commented on the upcoming events.
“We’re pleased to support Samhain in the Heartlands as part of Ireland Home for Halloween.
“The success of the programme in 2025 demonstrated the strong appeal of authentic Halloween experience rooted in Ireland’s traditions and folklore,
“This year visitors from home and overseas will have even more reasons to explore destinations across the island during the autumn season.
“By working in partnership with local authorities and communities, we're showcasing the very best of our cultural heritage, creating distinctive visitor experiences that will encourage travel beyond the traditional peak season, generate economic benefits for local areas and support sustainable tourism growth.”
Bill Collentine, Cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council also commented on the programme.
“Samhain in the Heartlands is a wonderful example of how communities across Longford and Westmeath are bringing the authentic story of Samhain to life for visitors.
“This year’s programme reflects the depth of heritage and creativity in the region and festivals like this play an important role in encouraging both domestic and international visitors to explore Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, supporting the expansion of tourism into the shoulder season.”
Finally, Westmeath County Council CEO, Barry Kehoe added, “We are delighted to see the Samhain in the Heartlands programme continue to grow in scale and ambition for 2026.
“Westmeath's programme reflects the depth and variety of experiences on offer, from the Samhain Gathering and Samhain After Dark at Belvedere House & Gardens, to the Spooktacular Summoning at Dún na Sí, and the new When the Veil Thins street procession bringing Athlone to life on Halloween night. We look forward to welcoming visitors to Westmeath."
Further programme details, individual event listings and booking information for Samhain in the Heartlands will be announced in the coming weeks. Visitors are advised to keep an eye on www.samhainheartlands.ie and social channels @samhainheartlands for updates.