The Spirits of Meath Halloween Festival
The spookiest time of the year is nearly upon us. Meath is celebrating all things macabre this month with the Spirits of Meath Halloween Festival. With events for all ages, expect lots of delights and plenty of frights in the Royal County. Here’s our pick of what’s on…
Spirits of Meath Halloween Festival
Many of us think of Halloween as an all-American holiday, but it first originated in Co. Meath. Samhain, the ancient Celtic Festival that we now call Halloween, started in the Boyne Valley more than 3,000 years ago.
Samhain marks the end of the old Celtic Year and the beginning of the New Year. The Celts believed that this was a time of transition, when the veil between our world and the next came down, and the spirits of all who had died since the last Oíche Shamhna (Night of Samhain) moved on to the next life.
One of the main spiritual centres of the ancient Celts was located on top of the hill of Tlachtga, (now called the Hill of Ward), one mile east of Athboy, Co. Meath. This world and the other world were thought to be closest at Tlachtga and it was here, on the festival of Samhain, that the sacred fire was kindled and Halloween started.
Athboy – Halloween HQ
So this year, in honour of our Celtic past, why not head to Halloween HQ in Athboy on October 31st. For children there will be workshops aplenty during the day. Then a lantern lit procession will take place on the Fair Green at 7pm. This will be followed by Púcas & Potions pageantry portraying the history and origins of Samhain.Or join UCD School of Archaeology as they dig up the past at this fantastic free community event.
Pumpkins as far as the eye can see….
The ultimate decoration for Halloween is a candle-lit pumpkin on the doorstep, welcoming or scaring any callers. Get organised early and head along to the Pumpkin and Play All Day at the Irish Military War Museum on Sunday Oct 8th. With bouncy castles and obstacle courses kids will be entertained for the day. Pick your own pumpkin for carving at the Alright Pumpkin Patch. Entry is free, you just pay based on the size of the pumpkin so choose wisely. They are open on lots of days during the month. Be sure to get there early though to get the pick of the bunch!
Hogwarts Ball
By now you will surely have mastered the art of pumpkin carving. And you have the perfect opportunity to show off your skills on Carnaross Hall. The Children’s Fancy Dress and Hogwarts Ball on October 27th has a Carved Pumpkin Competition. There will also be prizes for best dressed adults and children. This could be your chance to shine!
Frights on the Farm
More devilish delights at Pooka Spooka at Causley Farm. This is a family friendly event with broomstick rides, traditional games and crafts, a scarecrow corn maze and lots more besides.
But Spirits of Meath is not just for children. Grown-up’s who fancy screaming like toddlers can also have their fun at Causley Farm. Farmaphobia sounds truly terrifying. With attractions such as the Field of Screams, Vamporium and House of Dolls this is not an outing for the faint-hearted. Expect a good old scare and a right old laugh!
Scary Movie in Oldcastle
And finally the award for the event that even thinking about will give sleepless nights goes to Poltergeist at Loughcrew Church and Gardens. This will be an interactive screening of the Steven Spielberg classic. Bring your own seats, rugs, refreshments and pillow to hide behind….
Bahahaha….
Don’t forget to check www.inspireme.ie regularly to find lots of inspiration for things to do in your own locality. And sign up here to receive regular updates on what’s on in your area.
Finally, all information correct at time of publishing. You should always check with the event organiser before you travel.
