Samhain season returns to Galway City with another year of ‘Gaillimh Ah-Boo!’
The Samhain season will once again be celebrated in Galway with the return of ‘Gaillimh Ah-Boo!’, the city-wide Halloween festival.
Fáilte Ireland and Galway City Council have joined forces to bring Gaillimh Ah-Boo! back to Galway city this autumn.
Throughout October and November, a variety of events will celebrate Halloween and reclaim the ancient Celtic origins of Samhain through myth, magic and community.
Eibhlis Maher, Festival and Events Officer, Fáilte Ireland; Paul Mockler, Head of Business, Festivals and Major Sporting Events, Fáilte Ireland; Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr. Helen Ogbu; Fergal Cushen, Festival and Events Officer, Galway City Council; Kate Howard, Night-Time Economy Officer, Galway City Council. © Galway City Council
Among the highlights is the 40th Macnas Parade, which attracts visitors from near and far. This year’s theme, Fiáin, meaning “wild” in Irish, celebrates the raw elements of the west of Ireland and the untamed inspirations that have shaped Macnas’s iconic work over the past four decades.
“Halloween has deep roots in Irish culture, and Galway is proud to honour those traditions through Gaillimh Ah-Boo,” Galway City Mayor Cllr Helen Ogbu said.
“Following the incredible response to our first year, this expanded programme brings together the very best of our creativity, community, and heritage.”
Paul Mockler, Head of Business, Festivals and Major Sports Events with Fáilte Ireland added: “This year, visitors from home and overseas will have even more reasons to explore destinations across the island during the autumn season.”
Macnas in action in 2023. © Emiljia Jefremova
“By working in partnership with local authorities and communities, we’re showcasing the very best of our cultural heritage, creating distinctive visitor experiences that will encourage travel beyond the traditional peak season, generate economic benefits for local areas and support sustainable tourism growth.’’
A list of events can be found on the Gaillimh Ah-Boo! wesbite.