The Origins of Halloween in Ireland and Must-Visit Celebrations not to miss this 2024
According to Irish folklore the origins of Halloween, a tradition now celebrated worldwide stem back to the ancient Celtic tradition of Samhain. A celebration of the end of Summer and the harvest season.
Evidence from archaeology, legends, myths, and Celtic History all come together to tell us the spell-binding story and origins of Samhain, the tradition that has lived on, evolved, and traveled across continents becoming the annual celebration most of us now know as Halloween.
The story begins in Ireland’s Ancient East in the county of Meath where historical evidence tells us of Samhain gatherings. People would gather on Hills (or Tlachtga) where they would light a fire from which all fires were lit. These ancient hills were used for gatherings, feasts, and celebrations over 2,000 years ago. The Ancient Irish believed in the afterlife and the Otherworld, they believed that wearing masks protect you from the otherworld and the mischief of the fairies who might play “tricks” on you on Samhain night (this may be the origins of trick or treating).
Traditions such as carving and lighting a pumpkin also stem from ancient Irish Samhain traditions, when the Irish would carve terrifying faces in turnips and leave them outside their homes to ward off evil spirits. They would also leave offerings of food on their tables to welcome the souls of loved ones who might visit.
This ancient celebration has changed in many ways but its roots can still be seen today in the traditions that have survived. The lighting of fires such as bonfires on Halloween night, trick or treating, the lighting of Jack O Lanterns, and wearing costumes to ward off evil spirits.
So do we have you sold on Halloween or Samhain in Ireland? Why not visit some of the many wonderful attractions we have around this Halloween season in Irelands Ancient East…
“A Púca Festival to Remember!
When light turns to dark and the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead thins, the creatures of Samhain, Ireland’s ancient Halloween tradition, come to life.
Roaming the darkness like a shadowy spectre, the shape-shifting spirit of Púca comes alive! Changing the fortunes of all who cross her path as she transforms the night into a colourful playground of hallowed celebration.
Through the spectacular nights at Púca Festival, we salute the Halloween spirits through folklore, food, myth and music reopening the pathways of reflection and celebration carved by travelers over 2,000 years ago.”
“IRELAND’S BIGGEST HALLOWEEN EVENT
Our tormented and twisted minds have been working overtime to ensure that Farmaphobia will return for Halloween 2022. With 5 Terrifying Haunts spread over 100 Acres of Fear, Ireland’s BIGGEST Halloween Event is not to be missed.”
This is an absolutely wonderful experience for the whole family, with traditional games and crafts, Scarecrow corn maze, Mirror Maze, Hayride, Limb Throwing, Broonstick Ride, Fortune Telling & Story Telling
“The children can pick their own Pumpkin’s and bring them to the Halloween carving workshop in the Ladyrath Pumpkin Patch barn where all the grown ups and little ones get involved together. Just pop in a candle and leave the clean up to them! There will also be face painting, treats and lots more fun for all!”
