Kilkenny County Council’s four-week programme will explore harvest traditions, food history and local folklore.
As a successful destination KCC will receive up to €100,000 annually to develop Halloween-themed festivals and events.
The pilot scheme is part of the ‘Ireland, Home of Halloween Strategy’ which was developed collaboratively by Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, and Tourism Northern Ireland to establish Ireland as the authentic global home of Halloween. The pilot scheme aims to deliver immersive, culturally rich experiences that celebrate Ireland’s heritage, extend the tourism season into October and November annually.
The pilot Home of Halloween Pilot Destination Development Scheme invited all Local Authorities to apply for funding to create a new season for Halloween festivals rooted in local culture, folklore, and community engagement. Each successful destination will receive up to €100,000 annually to develop Halloween-themed festivals that celebrate Ireland’s heritage and attract visitors during the off-peak season.
Additional investment was allocated by Fáilte Ireland to the pilot programme following a high level of interest from Local Authorities and the strength of the proposals received. Over the course of three years, the seven supported projects are projected to attract approximately 337,000 additional visitors, generating an estimated €28 million in economic impact for local communities.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke said:
“The Home of Halloween strategy sets out a compelling vision for positioning Ireland as a must-visit destination for cultural tourism. With the addition of Limerick and Kilkenny, this investment will bring Ireland’s Halloween story to life in even more communities. Over the next three years, these projects are expected to attract 337,000 additional visitors and generate €28 million for local economies. It’s a powerful way to celebrate our heritage while driving sustainable tourism growth during the shoulder season.”
Orla Carroll, Director of Product Development at Fáilte Ireland, added:
“We were very encouraged by the strong interest and vision from local authorities, and the successful applicants, now including Limerick and Kilkenny, showed real potential to deliver a season of vibrant, authentic festivals. Building on the Púca festival, this scheme fosters partnerships between councils, tourism businesses, and cultural groups, helping to build a sustainable Halloween tourism offering across the regions of Ireland. These seven destinations will offer experiences that resonate with both domestic and international visitors and support long-term tourism development.”
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh also commented:
“We are delighted that Kilkenny has now been included in Failte Irelands Home of Halloween project. The objectives of the scheme are a natural fit for Kilkenny’s overall tourism objectives of extending our tourism season, attracting additional international visitors and supporting a year round calendar of Festivals and Events for both the visitor and our own local communities. Congratulations to all involved and I look forward to seeing the programme of events grow over the coming years.”
In 2024, the festival welcomed 49,050 attendees, delivering €7.11 million in economic impact, and supporting 174 jobs. In 2023, Fáilte Ireland also introduced Fire & Shadows Processions in Limerick, Longford, and Waterford to further establish Ireland’s position as the Home of Halloween.
