A programme packed with surprises, spectacles and spooky encounters awaits visitors at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park this Halloween Bank Holiday Weekend, from October 24 to 26.
With extended opening hours and, for the first time, entertainment continuing after dark, thousands are expected to descend on the historic castle and folk park for a weekend of Halloween mischief, mystery and mayhem.
Marking the 100th anniversary of the death of legendary escapologist Harry Houdini, visitors will have the chance to witness his spirit brought to life by the man known as the Irish Houdini, Steve Spade.
Fresh from his acclaimed performance at Electric Picnic, Steve will recreate Houdini’s legendary death-defying 100-foot rope escape and will showcase handcuffs once belonging to Houdini himself. Internationally recognised for blending world-class sleight of hand, psychological illusion, daring escapes and razor-sharp comedy, Steve’s performances are guaranteed to leave audiences amazed.
Visitors seeking something a little more mysterious can step back into Victorian times and experience a parlour séance, where secrets may be revealed and the veil between worlds briefly lifted. Those seeking further insight can consult the tarot cards with renowned seer Selina Shadows.
Families can marvel at the astonishing Human Spider, an illusion that has fascinated audiences since the days of travelling sideshows, while younger visitors will delight in encounters with Vera the Velociraptor, who will stalk the streets of Bunratty under the watchful eye of her daring trainer. Once she’s been safely fed, brave guests can even stop for a photograph.
Anyone considering a career in the supernatural can apply at the Ghost Recruitment Bureau, while others can lend a helping hand to a confused apprentice ghost searching for the perfect place to haunt.
Visitors can also pay their respects at the wonderfully irreverent Wicked Wake, where the deceased still has a little unfinished business to settle.
Justice will be served, or perhaps not, during the lively Witch Trial, where audiences must decide whether the accused witch deserves punishment or whether the self-important Witchfinder General is, in fact, a complete eejit.
For those with a stronger stomach, the Torture Chamber offers the ultimate Halloween photo opportunity, including a chance to test the infamous bed of nails and meet William Dung IV, whose family has been perfecting the art of torture for generations.
Meanwhile, younger visitors can enjoy traditional Halloween fun in the Golden Vale, including apple bobbing and a variety of festive games.
Throughout the weekend, guests will encounter a host of roaming performers, including international contortionist, juggler and clown Frederico Fandango, along with stilt walkers and a few unexpected spooky surprises around every corner.
Marie Brennan, Events Manager at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, said, “Our Halloween event continues to be a firm favourite with visitors from across the Mid-West and beyond. We’re thrilled to welcome everyone back to Bunratty, where history and the haunted come together in truly magical fashion. It’s a wonderfully eerie time of year, and we’ve pulled out all the stops to create an unforgettable experience filled with fun, frights, and festivities for all the family. This will be the biggest and best Halloween event yet held at Bunratty Folk Park.”
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park invites families, thrill-seekers and lovers of all things spooky to join the fun this Halloween Bank Holiday Weekend, from Saturday, 24 October to Monday, 26 October, with sessions running from 1.30pm to 4.00pm and 4.30pm to 7.00pm.
For more information or to book tickets, visit www.bunrattycastle.ie/events