Date: 21 Oct 2025
Buncrana’s Night-Time Economy Halloween Programme ‘Samhain by the Swilly’ with Parade of the Púca
Buncrana will come alive this Halloween as Samhain by the Swilly brings an exciting programme of after-dark activity to the town, celebrating creativity, culture, and community spirit. Taking place from 20–31 October, the initiative will illuminate Buncrana with a host of family-friendly experiences, live entertainment, and cultural events, culminating in the spectacular Parade of the Púca on Sunday, 26 October at 7pm, led by the Inishowen Carnival Group.
Fully funded and supported by Donegal County Council through its Night-Time Economy initiative, Samhain by the Swilly represents sustained investment in Buncrana’s growing night-time culture. Donegal County Council, the Inishowen Carnival Group, and MRK Live have collaborated to deliver the Halloween parade and wider programme, designed to capture the town’s unique after-dark character.
The 2025 programme will feature a variety of both funded and existing events and activities across Buncrana, ranging from immersive art experiences and spooky installations to family workshops, live performances, and themed nights in local venues. These activations highlight Buncrana as a vibrant hub of night-time activity throughout the Halloween period, showcasing the town’s creativity and community spirit.
“It’s wonderful to see Buncrana continuing to thrive through creative night-time experiences,” said Sophie Gallagher, Night-Time Economy Advisor with Donegal County Council. “Samhain by the Swilly celebrates Buncrana after dark — a place where creativity, inclusion, and community connection come together to deliver something truly special for locals and visitors alike.”
The Parade of the Púca will serve as the centrepiece of the celebrations, featuring illuminated floats, dazzling performances, and vibrant costumes that will bring Main Street to life..
The festival forms part of Donegal County Council’s ongoing commitment to developing the Night-Time Economy, positioning Buncrana as a model of how communities can thrive after dark through creative, collaborative, and inclusive programming.
About Buncrana by Night
Buncrana by Night is a flagship Night-Time Economy initiative delivered by Donegal County Council to support local businesses, foster creative partnerships, and position Buncrana as a vibrant and welcoming coastal town after dark.
Through the Samhain by the Swilly Halloween programme, the initiative not only enhances the town’s seasonal offering but also strengthens its identity as a thriving night-time destination. Alongside the Council-funded events, many local businesses will host their own Halloween activities, with full details available in the Samhain by the Swilly brochure and online via local channels.
Samhain by the Swilly
- Dates: 20–31 October 2025
- Highlight: Parade of the Púca – Sunday, 26 October at 7:00pm
- Route: Nailor’s Row to Lower Main Street, Buncrana
- Theme: Samhain by the Swilly
For full programme details: https://linktr.ee/buncranabynight " follow Buncrana By Night on social media, or pick up your Samhain by the Swilly brochure locally.
Buncrana by Night — Supporting Donegal’s Night-Time Economy through Culture, Creativity, and Community.
