Derry’s Halloween magic is back from 28th - 31st October 2025. Europe’s biggest Halloween festival is known for good reason - Derry goes all out. The city transforms into a spooky Halloween ghost town, with colour, music, costumes and the odd scare or two reaping through the streets. Whether you’re bringing the family, meeting up with friends or travelling solo, Derry Halloween is one for the bucket list.
We’ve put together this no-nonsense guide to help you get the most from your trip. You’ll find a little history, the can’t-miss highlights, practical advice and - because we like to keep things hassle-free - the simplest way to get from Dublin to Derry/L’Derry. (Spoiler: we’re on board.)
What’s the Story Behind Halloween in Derry?
This is a city with roots that go deep. Halloween here traces all the way back to Ireland’s ancient Samhain festival, when people believed the veil between worlds grew thin and spooky goings-on were the norm. Our modern-day fancy dress and bonfires are proud descendants of those very first gatherings.
Derry’s festival these days - believe it or not - started as a casual fancy dress night in a local pub forty years ago! It could have stayed a local laugh, but Derry had other plans. Since then, the festival has become world famous: thousands of visitors from every corner head here to experience a Derry Halloween!
Derry Halloween 2025: Key Dates and Times
Derry Halloween Festival 2025 runs from 28th to 31st October with a few different things happening over the course of the long weekend.
The number one question: When is the Derry Halloween parade? This year, the Halloween Parade and Fireworks Finale are both on the 31st, capping off the celebrations in classic Derry style.
Pop these in your diary:
- Awakening the Walled City Trail: 28th–30th October
- Halloween Parade: 31st October at 7pm
- Fireworks Finale: 31st October at 8.15pm
How to Get to Derry Halloween
Getting from Dublin to Derry / L’Derry isn’t always straightforward. We’re here to fix that. Aircoach 705X is one of just two direct coach links between Dublin and Derry/L’Derry, and getting you between your happy places is what we do best.
Why pick Aircoach?
- Direct route: One of only two options for straight travel between Dublin Airport or City Centre and Derry/L’Derry - no train changes, complicated transfers or fuel and parking costs.
- Reliable and frequent: 24 daily departures with late night and early morning options so you can enjoy the witching hours!
- Savings to spare: Affordable fares, with more left over so you can enjoy some festival treats.
- Comfort included: Every seat is guaranteed. There’s free WiFi, on-board toilets, and places to charge your phone (for all those parade snaps) all on our brand new fleet of coaches.
- No fuss drop-offs: You’ll arrive at Foyleside Coach Park, from there it’s only a short wander to the heart of the action.
Quick tip: Book your ticket online in advance. That way you’re sorted, locked in, and can get back to planning your Halloween antics.
Top Things to See and Do at Derry Halloween Festival
There’s a lot that goes on over the course of Derry Halloween weekend. Here’s an overview of the main events.
Awakening the Walled City Trail
The Awakening of the Walled City kicks off the Derry Halloween festivities. Starting on the 28th, over the course of the next three nights you’ll find the walls decked out in spook-tacular installations, glowing projections and pop-up performances. It’s family-friendly, but honestly? Anyone who loves a good Halloween trail will be right at home.
The Derry Halloween Parade
If you do just one thing, make it this. The Parade is the shining (sometimes spooky) centrepiece. Thousands of costumed revellers, dancers, giant puppets and floats snaking through the city’s streets. The route loops through Derry’s best landmarks, so you can sightsee and dance along at the same time.
Fireworks Finale
Halloween without fireworks? Not in Derry. Head towards the riverfront or the Peace Bridge for the biggest and brightest show of the year. Loved by all ages and the perfect end to the Halloween celebrations.
Tips for Planning Your Trip to Derry / L’Derry
With tourists and locals alike heading into Derry for the celebrations, things can get busy. Here’s our tips for planning ahead to make the most of your trip and avoid any scary surprises:
- Book early: This festival is popular for a reason. Secure your hotel (if you’re making a weekend of it) and your Aircoach seat before someone else nabs them. (It’s quick, trust us.)
- Remember your coat: By all means dress up - Derry knows how - but don’t forget warm layers, waterproofs and shoes you can walk (or dance) in.
- See the sights: You’re not obliged to stick to spooky stuff. Step onto the Peace Bridge, visit the mural from Derry Girls or grab a coffee in the Guildhall Square - there’s this and much more to explore.
- Stay in the loop: Festival details change. Follow the official Derry Halloween channels and website for up-to-date schedules and handy tips.
Make This Halloween Legendary
For all these reasons and more Derry Halloween is a bucket list item for all the Halloween lovers out there! Whether you plan to experience it solo, in a group or herding a pack of sugar-fuelled little monsters - let us get you there as simply as possible.
We’ll take care of the journey. You just get on with having a legendary Halloween.
Book your hassle-free travel to Derry / L’Derry with Aircoach today. For people, going places.