US audiences to hear Derry’s unique Halloween story

by Gráinne Connolly

Audiences in the United States will hear first hand about Derry/Londonderry's unique Halloween celebrations, at an event in New York this week. 

A council-led delegation is travelling to the city, to promote the district ahead of the Clipper Round the World Race when the yachts depart to sail direct to the city as part of the Foyle Maritime Festival celebrations. 

During the tip, local actor and performer Peter Davidson will also bring his unique "one-man Halloween show" to the US, showcasing how Derry/Londonderry has made the 31st of October it's own and is one of the best places around the globe to celebrate. 

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr John Boyle says it's important that the city tells the world how great the holiday is in the district and how it actively markets the area as a must see Halloween destination.

“Derry’s Halloween festival celebrations are already renowned across the world – we have been voted number one Halloween Destination in the world by USA Today and ranked in the top six Halloween destinations by the New York Times.

"so it’s really important we go out there and showcase what we have to offer to that international audience and encourage them to make a date in their diary and come and experience it for themselves.”

Aeidin McCarter, Head of Culture with Derry City and Strabane District Council says "“Derry Halloween has established itself as a unique visitor experience in Northern Ireland.

"It is a home-grown festival that offers visitors a unique and authentic experience, by drawing on the City’s rich artistic, historical, cultural and architectural offering creating bespoke, fun and quirky happening with wide appeal.

“It was created by the people of the city 32 years ago and enjoys mass support from local people, arts, cultural, business and tourism initiatives from across the region.

"Key to the Councils support is how it continues to encourage the development of new, innovative and imaginative festivals and participative events year on year.”

Derry International Halloween Festival for 2018 will run from 27th October – 3rd November 2018, and include a programme of over 100 events in over 40 venues across the city.

Among the key attractions is a three-night supernatural evening animation trail on the City’s historic Walls entitled Awakening of the Walls, a Hunted Harvest Street Market, Shapeshifter Costume Workshops and Competitions, a Jack O’Lantern Festival featuring Celtic history, pumpkin carving workshops; Ghost tours and trails including Game of Throne and Star War themed tours, the world’s biggest fancy dress street party and a magical Halloween Carnival Parade and Fireworks Display.