Samhain celebrations at Slane Castle take on a new twist this year with Púca, the otherworldly Halloween festival (23-31 October) and a very special Feast of the Spirits banquet in the Castle itself (30 and 31 October).
The Feast of the Spirits is a once-off opportunity to enjoy a Samhain dinner in the incomparable surroundings of Slane Castle Ballroom. Limited to just 50 people, this feast is a celebration of the superb produce in the Boyne Valley region with a special Samhain slant. The evening begins in the grand entrance hall where everyone enjoys a welcome drink and canapés plus entertainment before moving into the Ballroom. Completed in 1821 for the visit of King George IV, this impressive rotunda with a magnificent domed ceiling is one of the finest examples of Neo-Gothic works in Ireland. Renowned for perfect acoustics, it is where U2 recorded The Unforgettable Fire album.
Dinner will be served family-style at convivial round tables in the Ballroom. Traditional music from a four-strong group will add atmosphere to this exclusive event. The ticket price includes admission to the Púca walking trail before the Feast of the Spirits begins.
https://www.slanecastle.ie/feast-of-spirits/
Púca festival – Halloween mischief and magic
This year, for the first time, Slane Castle takes part in the Púca Festival, joining Trim, Athboy and Drogheda to celebrate Ireland as the birthplace of Halloween. From October 23rd until Halloween night, Slane Castle Estate transforms into a playground for the spirits of Halloween led by the dancers, aerialists, theatre-makers and acrobats of Luxe. Púca also includes performance in the Slane Distillery Courtyard, projections on the front of the Castle accompanied by music and a combination of Halloween entertainment along the walking trail including, lights, light sculptures, and holographic dance. https://www.pucafestival.com/slane-castle-artists/
On hand in The Castle Courtyard to keep festival goers warm and satisfied will be a whole host of local food and drink producers from the Boyne Valley. The team from Slane Distillery have joined in the fun, serving up a specially created Púca Punch to help wash down all the tasty treats on offer.
‘The Spirit of Púca inhabits Slane Castle’ is suitable for people of all ages. The route is accessible to buggies and wheelchairs. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
www.slanecastle.ie/puca-festival/
Slane Castle Estate
Home to the Conyngham family and world-famous concert venue, Slane Castle Estate extends over 1500 acres in the Boyne Valley, near Newgrange. It comprises Slane Castle, Rock Farm Slane glamping and organic farm, and Slane Distillery. Slane Castle celebrated 40 years of rock concerts in 2021.
