06/10/2026
Hallowe’en season!
From 29 October to 1 November 2026, Portlaoise will host a unique, four-day celebration of folklore, myth, history, and tradition. Bringing together wonderful storytellers, historians, artists, and neighbours alike, the Portlaoise Samhain Folk Festival invites everyone to explore the magical connections between Laois, Ireland, and the wider European community.
Festival Highlights at a Glance
Here are a few highlights you won’t want to miss:
Beware the Fairy Fort (Thursday, 5:30pm, Portlaoise Library): Discover why our ancestors revered, feared, and carefully avoided fairy forts, and how these age-old tales still shape Irish storytelling today.
In Person with Author Ellen Ryan (Friday, 4:30pm, Portlaoise Library): Meet the author of They Called Us Witch for an interactive look at true stories of historical women labeled as witches, priestesses, and healers.
Myths, Monsters & Magic Illustration Workshop (Friday, 11:00pm, Portlaoise Library): A fun, creative folklore illustration workshop with David Butler.
Step Inside the Story Dome (Saturday, Portlaoise Library): Join storyteller Vicky McFarland inside a magical portable dome featuring live storytelling and projected animation full of heart and imagination!
Myth & Memory Seminar (Saturday, 3:00pm, Midlands Park Hotel): A warm gathering of leading minds exploring shared traditions, protective charms, and European folklore.
Plámásing with Fionn Phelan (Saturday, 9:00pm, Kavanagh's Bar & Venue): A cozy evening of wonderful storytelling, music, and great conversation with special guests.
Laois: Its Dark Histories (Sunday, 3:00pm, Dunamaise Arts Centre): A fascinating closing discussion on local mysteries, superstitions, and legends, complete with special musical and character performances.
