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Samhain in the Heartlands was a lively colourful affair in Longford town that also lived up to its promise of being a spectacular celebration of Ireland's ancient traditions.
From a scavenger hunt and circus performances, to face painting and arts and crafts, the schedule had plenty of Hallowe’en-themed experiences for attendees to enjoy.
One of the highlights for families in particular was the Halloween HQ in Longford town’s Pig Market Lane, a free, drop-in hub featuring arts and crafts, face-painting, storytelling, music and the popular Midlands Bug & Reptile Zoo.
Families also took part in the Literary Family Scavenger Hunt which involved tracking various clues around Longford Town and answering spooky literary-themed questions to claim a book prize.
Part of Fáilte Ireland's ‘Ireland, Home of Halloween’ initiative, the festival brought together events throughout October and into November, celebrating the folklore, mythology and landscapes that inspired Halloween as we know it today.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
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5. Samhain celebrations in Longford
Fire Performers: Aileen Keogh, Karen and Katie Smith, Hazel Robinson, Katie Reilly, Shelley Corcoran, Hope Feeney and Gavin Smith | Picture: Shelley Cocorcan
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6. Samhain celebrations in Longford
The Coast | Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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7. Samhain celebrations in Longford
Claddagh Irish Dance Academy | Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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8. Samhain celebrations in Longford
A real life fright! Muireann Foley holds a Tarantula courtesy of John Dunbar from the Reptile Zoo | Picture: Shelley Corcoran