Folklore & Feasting in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Samhain In the Heartlands
Longford and Westmeath comes alive with spectacular parades, storytelling, spooktacular events
and lots more...
Samhain in the Heartlands is a unique collaboration between Longford and Westmeath County Councils, bringing together communities, businesses, artists and heritage sites to celebrate the ancient Celtic origins of Halloween in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
From 2 October to 8 November 2026, discover a journey through more than 5,000 years of Celtic tradition, with storytelling, music, immersive performances, parades, fire, folklore, family experiences, food and feasting across Longford and Westmeath.
Rooted in the landscapes and stories of Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival marking the transition from harvest into winter, the programme invites visitors to explore the mythology, traditions and Otherworldly stories that have shaped Halloween for generations.
Samhain in the Heartlands is part of Ireland, Home of Halloween, supported by Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland, and made possible through a network of local community and business partnerships.
Come and discover the stories, landscapes and traditions at the heart of Samhain.