Samhain Chiarraí Festival Launch

A celebration of the Kerry’s ancient traditions and cultural spirit from 16th October to 9th November 2025

Kerry is set to ignite with fire, folklore, and festivity this autumn as Samhain Chiarraí – A Kerry Halloween runs from 16th October to the 9th of November 2025, celebrating the county’s ancient traditions and cultural spirit.

Following Kerry’s selection as one of the destinations for Fáilte Ireland’s ‘Home of Halloween’ Pilot Scheme, the initiative forms part of the national, Home of Halloween Strategy to establish Ireland as the authentic global home of Halloween. Samhain Chiarraí promises a celebration, rooted in Ireland’s authentic Samhain heritage drawing inspiration from the Cailleach, the wise and wild Goddess of Winter—who emerges each year to mark the end of the harvest and the turning of the Celtic year.

The festival programme includes county-wide events including three new Samhain experiences in Tralee, Killarney & Listowel. These family events will tell the story of the Cailleach Chiarrai and will take the form of Street Processions, Awakening Spectacles, Fireworks, Céilis, Willow Workshops and Treasure Hunts. 

Kerry County Council is delighted to support a host of associated community festivals and events across the County including Féile Eile, Killorglin, Halloween Howl, Kenmare & the Sneem Storytelling Festival, these are a few of the many community events taking place between Oct 16th & 9th to mark Halloween in Kerry, visit www.discoverkerry.com/SamhainChiarrai for the full programme.

Samhain Chiarraí intends to transform towns and villages into immersive landscapes of fire, light, and story, connecting visitors and locals with Kerry’s dúchas – its heritage, belonging, and sense of place through a variety of workshops, street spectacles, light projections and rituals.

Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr. Mike Foley said,

“Samhain Chiarraí is about much more than celebrating our past — it’s about bringing families, schools, and communities together to create new memories and experiences. Taking place over the mid-term break, the festival will give children and families the chance to enjoy unique events in towns and villages right across Kerry. From spectacular parades to community gatherings, Samhain Chiarraí will highlight the county’s rich traditions while introducing new and engaging experiences for both residents and visitors. This festival is a chance for Kerry to come together, celebrate our shared heritage, and showcase the warmth and creativity of our communities.”

Samhain Chiarraí will deliver a cultural and tourism experience that is uniquely Kerry – weaving together the ancient and the modern, the local and the international. The festival runs from the 16th October to 9th November inclusive.