Witches, warlocks and wizards for Visual's spooktacular Samhain Fest

THE ancient Celtic traditions of Samhain, marking the end of the harvest season and the start of winter, will be revived in Carlow this Halloween.

A comeback of the Carlow Set Dance, a fire show and an enchanting performance by four-part harmony group Landless are all part of the line-up for Samhain Festival 2024, which returns to Visual from Friday Sunday 25-27 October.

Celebrated as the Celtic New Year, Samhain was believed to be the time when the veil between the living and the dead was especially thin – allowing spirits to visit the living. Visual CEO and artistic director Emma Lucy O’Brien said this year’s programme has been crafted to bring in traditional Samhain elements and modern Halloween celebrations.

“We wanted to create an experience that is both nostalgic and exciting for all ages,” she said.

Events are not just for little monsters during the day but for all creatures of the night, young and old. Witches and warlocks will descend on Visual as the festival opens with a film screening and fancy dress contest at 10am on Friday. Later that evening, Visual will host Landless and Friends in the Link Gallery to mark the official opening concert of Samhain 2024. “We are delighted to welcome Landless to Carlow for the Samhain Festival. Their own blend of traditional folk and contemporary influences will provide a mesmerising start to our festivities. This performance is sure to captivate and enchant all who attend,” said Emma Lucy. Other highlights during the weekend include a spooktacular show, Spellbound with Joe The Magician at 3pm on Saturday 26 October at the George Bernard Shaw Theatre, and Spooky Tours for adults, Visual’s building at 8pm, 9pm, 10pm and 11pm on Saturday 26 October.

The festival closes on Sunday 27 October with Firenight – Lumina – a fire, light and sound spectacle in the grounds of Carlow College at 8pm. ROGU is an award-winning fire show, light performance and movement arts and education company based in Ireland. “It was all made possible thanks to the support from Fáilte Ireland, Carlow County Council and the Arts Council of Ireland,” added Emma Lucy. For the full list of event, see www.visualcarlow.ie.