Derry Halloween Trail event dazzles on opening night
29 October 2025
Despite a few showers, the streets of Derry were alive with illumination, dance and drama, with a fantastic showcase of local creativity and talent during the Awakening the Walled City Trail.
From spellbinding street performances and dazzling displays the Home of Halloween lived up to its name as the festivities got underway this evening.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, praised everyone involved in the world-renowned celebration, the biggest of its kind in Europe, saying: “Tonight truly captured the spirit of Derry Halloween bringing together creativity, community and celebration. A huge congratulations and thank you to all the artists, performers, volunteers and organisers who make this event so special each year. With three more nights to enjoy the festivities I’m really looking forward to welcoming visitors to the home of Halloween over the coming days.”
The magic continues all week with two more nights of the Awakening the Walled City Trail taking place from 6pm-9pm as well as plenty of family friendly activities throughout the day. Before the spectacular Carnival Parade on Friday evening at 7pm, and fireworks finale over the Foyle at 8.15pm.
Download the full programme and the trail, and check out all the traffic and travel advice, at www.derryhalloween.com