Top 5 things to do in Wexford during this Halloween period

As the shadows rise over the River Slaney and an eerie chill creeps through the medieval streets of Wexford Town, the scent of hearth smoke drifts through the air as fallen leaves crunch underfoot. The feeling of Samhain is well and truly upon us, that magical time when darkness falls early and the old stories seem to breathe again.

Home to Ireland’s most haunted house, Loftus Hall, and steeped in rich, storied history, Wexford’s Norman walls and windswept coastlines hold centuries of mystery. As darkness deepens and the ghosts of history stir once more, here’s a short guide to soaking up the Halloween spirit in the model county.

1. Lanterns, Legends, and Lost Souls – Haunted Hallows Ghost Tour with WexWalks

Dates: October 17-31

As the streets come alive with tales of the ancient past, there’s no better way to experience Wexford’s shadowy side than with a Haunted Hallows Ghost Tour. By lantern light, Paul leads brave souls through the town’s most haunted corners, from forgotten graveyards where the dead still seem to stir, to narrow laneways said to echo with the cries of long-lost spirits. Along the way, he shares chilling stories of apparitions, executions, and eerie encounters that bring Wexford’s haunted history vividly to life.

Not for the faint-hearted and for adults only (18+), this is a walk on the wilder side of Wexford. Proceed only if you dare.

2. Spirits Soar – Irish National Heritage Park

Dates: Year-round (especially atmospheric in autumn)

For families seeking a touch of history with their Halloween, the Irish National Heritage Park is a must. Wander through misty woodlands and ancient ringforts where echoes of Ireland’s past linger in the air.

Step back through 9,000 years of history from prehistoric settlements to Norman strongholds, and it’s easy to imagine the spirits of old Wexford watching from the shadows. Don’t miss the Birds of Prey Experience, where majestic owls and hawks glide silently overhead, adding an almost otherworldly touch to this journey through time.

A visit to the park is the perfect way to walk through the whispers of history and the lingering magic of Samhain.

3. Pumpkins, Potions, and Autumn Magic – Secret Valley Wildlife Park

Dates: October 3 – November 2

Nothing says Halloween like a visit to Secret Valley Wildlife Park’s Pumpkin Patch. Hidden in the heart of Clonroche, the park transforms into a harvest wonderland filled with hay bales, crisp autumn air, and the scent of woodsmoke. Families can wander through the pumpkin fields to find the perfect pick, explore the Witches’ Village, and meet the park’s friendly animals, from mischievous meerkats to curious lemurs.

The Full Package Halloween Experience combines the pumpkin patch, woodland walk, witches’ village, and tractor rides for a complete seasonal adventure suitable for all ages.

But when night falls, the friendly faces fade and the fear begins. The Cornmaze Massacre, a spine-tingling scare event, draws thrill-seekers from across the southeast. Within its twisting trails and haunted cornfields, even the bravest souls will be tested. With everything from gentle family fun to full-blown fright, Secret Valley is where Halloween truly comes alive.

4. Spirits Awaken at Johnstown Castle

Dates: October 18 – November 2

As fog drifts across the lake and curls around the ancient turrets of Johnstown Castle, the estate takes on an otherworldly beauty. This Halloween, the castle and its gardens become a place where stories stir, shadows move, and the veil between worlds feels just a little thinner.

Begin your visit with the Pumpkin Pick-Up in the Bothy Sheds, where you can choose your perfect pumpkin and enjoy a warming drink from The Coffee Pot. For younger visitors, the Museum of Mysteries in the Irish Agricultural Museum offers a family-friendly quest through shadowed halls, while the Halloween Trail leads through rustling trees in search of the legendary Johnstown witch.

When night falls, everything changes. The Night at the Museum experience invites brave visitors to explore after dark, where phantom hooves echo through the halls and whispers travel through corridors. For a finale of fright and fun, the Pop-Up Movie Club transforms the ballroom into a candlelit cinema on October 31, showing beloved Halloween classics such as Hocus Pocus and The Nightmare Before Christmas.

With mystery by day and magic after dark, Johnstown Castle captures the true spirit of Samhain.

5. When the Night Comes Alive

Date: October 31

As darkness falls and trick-or-treaters drift home, a different kind of energy awakens. Music spills into the streets, glasses clink, and the grown-ups come out to play.

RockOween at Casey’s of Wexford leads the charge, a free Halloween blowout where amps roar, lights dim, and spirits rise. Brazilian rockers Monticelli bring loud riffs and big energy, while everyone’s encouraged to come in costume as rock icons, classic monsters, or anything that howls at the moon. For more information visit Casey’s of Wexford on Facebook.

Over at Wexford Arts Centre, the 666th Halloween Ball promises a night of wild spectacle and gothic revelry. This year, the keys to chaos are handed to the Persons Unknown collective, a fierce group of young local artists hosting an unholy showcase of music and mayhem. Expect a ferocious lineup featuring Vampire, The Mables, Abi’s Crash Verse, Baggles & Butch, and The Zonai, each bringing their own brand of punk, metal, and macabre energy to the stage.

With MC Cursed Murphy presiding over the madness, the evening blends theatrical performance, rebellious sound, and Halloween anarchy in equal measure. Guests are urged to arrive in full costume for what promises to be a gloriously ghoulish celebration.

From haunted walks and pumpkin trails to castle secrets and midnight revels, Wexford serves up the ultimate Halloween adventure.