Derry Halloween is Europe’s largest and most famous Halloween festival, held each late October in the walled city of Derry~Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Rooted in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, the event transforms the city into a world of myth and magic, with parades, costume parties, haunted trails, light shows, and the spectacular Fireworks Finale over the River Foyle. Themed around Irish folklore and the supernatural, the celebrations bring together thousands of locals and visitors in a vibrant mix of creativity, heritage, and spooky fun. Blending Celtic tradition with modern spectacle, Derry Halloween has earned its place as the world’s most spirited Halloween destination.
Planning Derry Halloween? We’ll time Awakening the Walled City, the parade & fireworks, secure lodging inside the walls, and sort flights/trains/buses for your dates—Book a free planning call.
DATES & TIMES
• Dates: 28–31 October 2025 (Tuesday–Friday).
• Awakening the Walled City Trail: 28–30 October, 18:00–21:00 — see Programme.
• Carnival Parade & Fireworks: Friday 31 October — Parade 19:00, Fireworks 20:15 — see the official Parade & Fireworks details.
• The exact timetable publishes annually; always check the live Programme before your visit.
LOCATION
• Walled City hub: Guildhall Square & Waterloo Place with trail zones along the Derry Walls — overview on the Official site.
• Map: Guildhall Square, Derry~Londonderry — Open in Google Maps.
• Getting there: Use Translink rail/bus; special services are listed under Translink and city Plan your visit pages.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Mostly free: Trail, Parade and Fireworks are free; select experiences may be ticketed — see Ticket info and FAQs.
CAMPING & ACCOMMODATION
• Motorhome parking (official): Bishop Street Car Park offers limited paid motorhome spaces 28–31 October — details and booking via City notice and Motorhome tickets.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Core highlights: Awakening the Walled City Trail (3 evenings), Carnival Parade and Fireworks Finale — see the Programme.
• Access & closures: Temporary road/car‑park changes (Society Street, Victoria Market, etc.) published by the City — see City notices and Visitor information.
Want the best parade views and easy exits? We’ll time your nights for calm vantage points, secure stays and plan smooth transport — Hire Tripologiste.