Samhain - Halloween

About

Long before fireworks and trick-or-treating, the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain marked the turning of the seasons in Ireland. 

This ancient celebration, later followed by traditions practised on All Hallow's Eve, is believed to have inspired many of the customs we now associate with Halloween.

In times past, it was believed that during All Hallow's Eve the veil between worlds grew thin, allowing spirits, fairies, and other supernatural beings to slip into our realm. Masks were crafted and worn to ward off these malevolent forces. Create your own nature mythology mask with Annan's Arch using foraged natural materials and specialised fabrics. Will your mask keep the ghouls away?

Discover the origins and traditions of Samhain, which marked the first day of winter in the traditional Irish calendar, meet suspicious characters and encounter their uncanny tales. You can also help us solve a murder mystery! Listen to Irish language storytelling (Scéalaíocht i nGaeilge) with Aodán ‘Jaff’ Mac Séafraidh. Get hands-on at our craft stations, hear spooky stories for the little ones, and look out for the Armagh Rhymers, dressed in traditional masks and costumes. You might even discover what the future holds for you in a cabbage reading.

As always, you can explore our authentic exhibit buildings and meet our makers who will be demonstrating their crafts. We’ll also have traditional food to taste - colcannon in Tea Lane, barmbrack in Bank House, and apple pie in the Parochial Hall. 

Ulster Folk Museum Halloween activities will be taking place midweek only on the following dates and times:

Wednesday 29th October – 10:00 to 16:00

Thursday 30th October – 10:00 to 16:00

Friday 31st October – 10:00 to 16:00 

Please note: To allow for ongoing conservation work to protect and care for the museum, some of our exhibit buildings will look a little different on arrival. This is only temporary, to enable roof works on the Tea Lane Houses. The rest of the museum is still open for you to explore!