Samhain at Lough Gur: Where Myth Meets Memory

Samhain marks the beginning of winter in the traditional Irish calendar  a time when the boundary between the everyday world and the Otherworld was believed to be at its thinnest.

At Lough Gur, a landscape shaped by thousands of years of human history, these old traditions are still reflected in its stories, folklore and ancient monuments.

From 29 October to 1 November, join us for four days of events exploring the myths, memories and traditions of Samhain as part of Home of Halloween, with support from Fáilte Ireland.

This Samhain, from 29 October to 1 November, explore the history, folklore and traditions that have shaped this ancient landscape through four days of events for all ages.

Follow the clues on a Samhain Scavenger Hunt, get creative with natural materials at the Leaves, Lichens & Little Monsters workshop, or discover the customs of the season at an Autumnal Wreath Making workshop.

For those looking to delve deeper into Lough Gur’s past, The Road to the Otherworld bus tour explores the archaeology, history and folklore of the surrounding landscape, while The Folklore, Fables & Legends of Lough Gur explores the stories of Áine, Gearóid Iarla and the traditions that have been passed down through generations.

As evening falls, experience a nineteenth-century séance with Anthony Galvin, or settle in for an evening of local theatre at the HoneyFitz Theatre, where the Lough Gur Amateur Dramatic Society will present three one-act comedies.

The weekend closes with storytelling from Balor O’Brien, bringing Irish folklore, mythology and local legends to life, alongside a celebration of the winners of Lough Gur’s schools’ Samhain art competition.

Whether you come for the stories, the history, the folklore or simply to experience Lough Gur at this time of year, Samhain at Lough Gur is an invitation to look at the landscape through a different lens — where myth meets memory.

All tickets can be purchased directly on our website by clicking ‘Book Now’

Supported by Fáilte Ireland as part of Home of Halloween.