L'Derry Halloween: Tens of thousands expected as festivities return
It is the first time the event has expand into county Donegal
Last updated 29th Oct 2021
Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Co. Londonderry this weekend as the annual Halloween festival makes its return.
What has been branded Europe’s largest Halloween festival kicks off today (Friday) and will wind down on Sunday night with a spectacular firework display over the River Foyle.
It is the first time there has been an event of this size since in the city of Derry since the Covid-19 pandemic struck.
Last year some online events were held, and the town was decorated in creepy inflatables all throughout the city.
However, the famous parade did not go ahead, and it will not take place again this year either.
Instead, the festival entitled ‘Awakening the Walled City’, will see an array of unforgettable sights, characters, and digital wonders take place at key locations between 5pm and 10pm throughout the weekend.
Highlights of Derry Halloween will include several illuminated worlds along with Ireland’s first ever digital LED installation.
The bespoke 360-degree structure will use film, animation, special effects, and augmented reality to create a spectacular lightshow that will enchant audiences with its striking visual display.
There will also storytelling, hidden spaces and displays popping up throughout the city.
Odhran Dunne, Chief Executive of Visit Derry, has said he is glad the event is back.
He said: “Recognised as the best Halloween destination in the world, Derry Halloween is a shared celebration of wonder and folklore where the unbelievable seems believable for a few enchanted days and nights.”
This year to allow for social distancing and to think Covid save the city has been split into different “world” or “zones” each with its own immersive experience.
They will include several illuminated worlds, each with its own programme of activity featuring a range of installations, large scale inflatables, aerial acrobatics, dancing flames, displays and animation.
Worlds One, Two and Three are in Derry City itself, while World Four is in neighbouring Strabane town centre and World Five in Buncrana, Donegal.
Residents and visitors to the city over the next three days are encouraged to “dress to impress”
Organisers are hoping that everyone gets into the spirit of Derry Halloween - mums, dads, the kids, friends and even the dog – and wears their funniest or scariest costumes.
They are asking to join the spooky fun online share your pics using #derryhalloween.
Mr Dunne added: “Derry Londonderry is known for its love of Halloween and this year we look forward to safely welcoming visitors over three thrilling days.
“Derry Halloween encapsulates all that makes the city special and with a huge selection of experiences on offer across Derry Londonderry visitors will be spoilt for choice.
“Not only are they guaranteed the famous Derry Londonderry warm welcome, but they will also enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the tastes and smells of the Legendary food scene and the opportunity to immerse themselves in our rich cultural heritage.
“There’s something to do for the whole family.
“With lots of surprises lurking around every corner, it’s great to see Derry Halloween return.”
For more information on Derry Halloween’s ‘Awakening the Walled City’ celebrations, click on www.derryhalloween.com or call Visit Derry on + 44 (0) 28 7137 7577.
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