Spooky new song to capture the spirit of Derry Halloween
11 September 2026
The spirit of Derry Halloween will be brought to life in a brand-new way this year with the launch of a fun-filled Halloween anthem.
The spirit of Derry Halloween will be brought to life in a brand-new way this year with the launch of a fun-filled Halloween anthem created by well-known local fundraiser Martin Mullan.
‘The Number One Halloween Song - What's the Craic?’ has been produced to mark the 40th anniversary of the city’s world-famous Halloween celebrations. Accompanied by a special video - and dance routine - featuring some of Derry Halloween's most famous creepy characters, including Walter deBurgh and Half Hung McNaghten, What's the Craic? captures the unique energy and Samhain spirit that have helped establish Derry Halloween as the biggest Halloween celebration in Europe.
The central character is brought to life by Martin himself, as his alter-ego Martin the Undertaker, and is just the latest initiative to be launched by the well-known Grove Theatre Group Director. Martin famously brought together 13,000 Santas on the streets of Derry in 2007, raising thousands of pounds for the Foyle Hospice. Now he’s hoping ghosts and ghouls from this world and beyond will get behind ‘What's the Craic?’ marking the landmark anniversary.
Joining Martin for the launch of the song today, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, encouraged the public to get behind the catchy new release.
"I want to congratulate Martin on creating such a fun and memorable tribute to everything we love about Halloween in our district,” she declared.
"Here in Derry we’re renowned for our humour and creativity and this is a really fun way to get the word out about Derry Halloween. I would encourage everyone to get a listen and join in our anniversary celebrations this year.”
Martin Mullan said he had been inspired by the city’s journey towards becoming the Halloween capital, evolving from a small social event at a local bar to become the biggest Halloween celebration in Europe.
"Over the years Derry really has established itself as the place to celebrate this ancient festival, and the event is unlike anything else in the world. It has its own identity, its own story and a sense of magic that draws people together year after year.
"I wanted to create something that would celebrate this special milestone, and the wonderful talent, hospitality and humour we have here in the city.
"It this song can raise the profile of the city and bring some joy it would be fantastic. I want to thank Eamonn Karran and Terry Doherty and everyone who assisted in producing the song. I hope everyone enjoys it and gets into the Halloween spirit by listening to What's the Craic?.”
The song is available to download now on all the usual streaming platforms.