Halloween in Dublin offers an exciting mix of haunted history, cosy pubs, and fantastic food, making it the perfect destination for spooky fun. Whether you’re after a chilling cocktail or a ghostly tale, here’s your ultimate guide to the top things to see and do in Dublin this Halloween!
Malahide Castle: Diabolical Dorothy’s Dreadful Brew
The Malahide fairy trail that we all know, and love has had a transformation as it turns into a spooky treasure hunt this Halloween. This is running from 29-31 October. This is a great activity to keep the kids occupied over the mid-term and whoever is participating should come in their costume and in doing so will be given an interactive booklet along with a map which will help them discover the clues along the way. The trail has been completely changed so that the kids can use their sense of adventure and creativity while they are, most importantly, having lots of fun.
This is on between 10 am-4:30 pm, advised to prebook tickets in advance, as spaces are limited. Visit malahidecastleandgardens.ie for more info
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum (CHQ Building)
Start your Dublin adventure at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, where Ireland’s emigration history comes to life through interactive exhibits and compelling stories.
This Halloween season at EPIC(The Irish Emigration Museum) is hosting a range of events that are both exciting and spooky. They have teamed up with the Samhain Festival to celebrate the ancient origins of Halloween. You can hear ghostly tales that explore our folkloric roots. This is a great idea for families to do during the mid-term and ensure they can celebrate Halloween as safely as possible.
Events include:
- Samhain Family Festival
- EPIC Spooksplorers Halloween Trail
- Spooksplorers Family Experience
- Ghosts, Ghouls and “Goodie Glover Day”: The Origins Of Halloween (adult only)
- Notorious Irish Murder Mystery Camp
That’s Amore Restaurant: Italian Comfort Food
After a day of spooky sightseeing, refuel with some hearty Italian fare at That’s Amore. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious pizzas and pasta, this restaurant offers the perfect spot to relax and unwind. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian or a Halloween-themed dish, That’s Amore will satisfy your cravings.
Púca Festival
This is running from 28-31 October and there are a series of events and things going on surrounding these great three days of fun. There is everything from musicians, fire shows, Halloween-themed bingo, markets and much more. This takes place in both Trim and Athboy and some featured artists that will be performing across the festival are Gavin James, The Academic, The High King and Imelda May. A lot of these are ticketed events so make sure to get tickets. Other activities going on over are:
- Shows from Neil Delamere alongside MC Ian Coppinger and Sinead Quinlan
- Haunted Trim walking tours
- Treasure Hunts
- Circus with top-class performers
- Fire shows with tribal drumming that includes 5 fire performers and 2 drummers
- Food and Craft Market with a Halloween theme
- Medieval village to see that period of history come to life
For more info go to pucafestival.com
Ghostbus Tour
The original Ghostbus Tour is back and better than ever. Explore the darker side of Dublin with this one-of-a-kind haunted house on wheels that will have you on edge throughout. Brilliant for those who love the eerie or spooky aspect of things. Visit graveyards that are said to be haunted and you can even find out what it’s like to be buried alive! The tour is based on true stories and Dublin folklore, it is a great night out of entertainment.
Book Dublin’s best night out this Halloween season, please book in advance to avoid disappointment as tickets are selling fast!
Toners Pub: A Haunted Dublin Institution
A must-visit on any Halloween night is Toners Pub, one of the oldest and most beloved pubs in Dublin. With a history dating back to 1818, this legendary establishment is rumoured to have its own ghostly resident! Enjoy a pint in its dark, wood-panelled interiors and immerse yourself in the rich, spooky atmosphere. You may even feel the presence of Dublin’s ghostly past.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece
A stroll around St. Patrick’s Cathedral at night is the perfect way to soak in the gothic beauty of Dublin. While the cathedral itself isn’t haunted, its striking architecture and centuries-old history make it an iconic stop on any Halloween itinerary. Don’t forget to explore nearby Christ Church Cathedral for special Halloween tours and events.
Bram Stoker Festival
Similarly, to the Púca festival, it is on between the 28-31 October. Four full days of Halloween fun and excitement in the heart of the city. Many things are happening including spooky-themed films Nosferatu100, Ghosts of Dublin, Granny O’Grimm, Empty Little People and much more on Europe’s largest outdoor screen that is dedicated to digital art, located in Living Canvas, Wilton Park.
Warmbloods is also back in the National Gallery of Ireland, where Anne and Winifred explore their favourite parts of the gallery and they promise exposed flesh, murder, darkened rooms and much more.
Interested in hearing some spooky stories? Marsh’s Library in St. Patrick’s Close is the place for you. The author of Dracula, Bram Stoker himself has a desk where you can still sit at to this day. You will also hear about the ancient Egyptian mummy that is in the Dublin Library.
There is all this and much more going on around the city for Bram Stoker festival.
You can hear all about Bram Stoker and everything else spooky in Dublin on the Ghostbus Tour and visit some haunted places too.
For more info on the Bram Stoker Festival visit bramstokerfestival.com
Nightmare Realm
Located in City Market, Mary’s Lane, Dublin, The Nightmare Realm was awarded as the best independent European Haunt in 2019. This Halloween attraction will be sure to get your skin crawling. Known as Ireland’s biggest Halloween Scream Park this is something to add to your Halloween to-do list. There is a haunted maze which you will need to navigate as you while being entertained by characters and performers. There is also a haunted house for you to endure.
Tickets are likely to sell out and vary between off-peak and peak times so book now at thenightmarerealm.com
Ghostbus Kids Tour
Experience an unforgettable day out with the kids this Halloween. The Ghostbus Kids Tour is a kid’s adventure like no other. Experience fun interactive stories with an educational spooky twist! Our professional storytellers aim to provide the best entertainment on board with fun games that your kids will enjoy.
La Tapas de Lola: A Spanish Halloween Fiesta
For something a little different, head to La Tapas de Lola, a vibrant tapas bar that brings the flavours of Spain to Dublin. Share plates of delicious food with friends while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Perfect for a festive night out, La Tapas de Lola will ensure your Halloween is full of flavour and fun.
Peruke & Periwig: Cocktails with a Gothic Twist
Step into a world of theatrical cocktails at Peruke & Periwig, one of Dublin’s most unique cocktail bars. The moody, vintage setting and carefully crafted cocktails make it a great spot to enjoy a drink while embracing the Halloween spirit. With dim lighting and opulent décor, it feels like stepping into a glamorous haunted house—minus the frights!
