Samhain celebrations continue across Westmeath into November

There is still plenty of Samhain magic to enjoy across Westmeath and the wider Ireland's Hidden Heartlands region, with a programme of food, folklore, storytelling and cultural events continuing until November 8.

The Samhain in the Heartlands festival is offering visitors an opportunity to extend their Halloween celebrations, with a number of events taking place across Westmeath and Longford over the coming days.

The highlight for Westmeath will be An Tairseach: Samhain ar Uisneach, taking place on November 7 and 8 at the historic Hill of Uisneach.

The festival's closing event will feature music, storytelling, live performances and the lighting of the sacred Samhain Fire at one of Ireland's most significant heritage sites.

The celebrations also include the Spirit of Samhain Tasting Dinner at Skelly's Bar in Ballymahon, Longford, on Wednesday, November 4.

The five-course dining experience will showcase locally reared Inis Cloithreann Droimeann Beef from Inchcleraun on Lough Ree, accompanied by whiskey from Lough Ree Distillery and craft beer from Wide Street Brewing Company.

One of the beers has been brewed using yeast harvested from the ancient Oweynagat cave at Rathcroghan.

Visitors are also being encouraged to make a weekend of their trip by exploring attractions across the region.

In Westmeath, these include Belvedere House, Gardens and Park, Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park, the Hill of Uisneach and the area's scenic Greenways.

In Longford, the Corlea Trackway offers visitors the chance to explore the region's natural and archaeological heritage, although its visitor centre and facilities close for the winter season from November 4.

With food, history and traditional culture on offer, the remaining Samhain programme provides another opportunity to experience the Midlands this autumn.