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With Halloween Midterm creeping up on us, Airbnb has curated a  spooktacular  wishlist of stays in Ireland, from a  Gothic church  in Waterford to a  historic castle with lake views  in Galway! Airbnb invites travellers to get into the spirit of Samhain, an ancient Celtic spiritual tradition, and explore destinations around Ireland – where the celebrations first began over 2,000 years ago. Whether you’re looking for a spine-tingling getaway with friends or planning some family fun, this list has something for everyone. From  haunted hideaways  to cosy,  spooky-themed escapes,  these destinations promise an unforgettable Halloween experience for all ages. The mysterious and unique getaways are a selection of  Guest Favourites  – a collection of the two million most-loved homes on Airbnb based on ratings, reviews and reliability. This means guests can expect to be transported back in time to the ancient traditions of the Samhain festival, complete with today’s comforts and luxuries. Spooky Places to Stay in Ireland this October  Ross Castle – Oldcastle, Co. Meath The 500-year-old Norman Keep at Ross Castle was mentioned in  The Lonely Planet  as one of the “Ten Lesser-Known Haunted Places in the World”. Guests have the entire castle to themselves to explore and discover secrets of the hidden past. Overlooking Lough Sheelin, you may even spot a sea monster at night.  Bagenal Harvey Cottage – Tomhaggard, Co. Wexford Nestled beside the eerie Butlerstown Castle which dates back to the 1500s, this location is bound to send a shiver down your spine. Upon arrival, guests are invited on a tour of Butlerstown Castle which is full to the brim with tales of the past. Those brave enough can explore the 100-acre grounds on which the cottage sits. 15th Century Castle – Julianstown, Co.  Meath This historic castle stay is guaranteed to transport you to the Middle Ages. The castle still contains an original spiral stone staircase and a unique barrel vaulted basement, the perfect setting for getting into the Halloween spirit. The location is ideal for those looking to explore historically rich sites, with the Newgrange monument being a 20-minute drive from the castle. Abbey Room at Claregalway Castle – Claregalway, Co. Galway Claregalway Castle’s rich history dates back to a chief stronghold of Clanricarde Burkes in the 1400s. Guests can learn about the deep rooted heritage of the castle by taking a private tour of the Castle Tower. In the evening, fall asleep in a luxurious four poster bed in the Abbey Room, adorned with rich and intricate carvings for the full chilling experience. Guilcagh Church – Portlaw, Co. Waterford Guilcagh Church entices you into a world of haunting elegance through its iron-gated double doors. Surrounded by an old graveyard with visible headstones, the property exudes a spiritual charm. Inside, the church radiates a chilling luxury, with an oversized wood-burning stove and a wooden spiral staircase. The altar, now a kitchen, creates a perfect ambiance for shared dinners and storytelling this Halloween.   Wilton Castle – Bree, Co. Wexford Elegant yet foreboding, Wilton Castle stands as a 19th century fortress on the banks of the Boro River, offering a chillingly luxurious stay in Ireland’s shadowy south-east. Encircled by vast parklands and woods, the castle has been standing since 1247, when the first tower was erected. Guests are encouraged to explore the vast spooky woodlands that surround the castle.  Fanningstown Castle – Adare, Co. Limerick Fanningstown Castle, a brooding gothic fortress from the 12th century, has been meticulously restored, yet its ancient walls still whisper secrets of the past. Just three miles from Adare, the spacious, hauntingly beautiful interiors offer an exciting retreat for family and friends. Guests can enjoy an enclosed patio, perfect for telling spooky stories during twilight.  Carraigin Castle – Headford, Co. Galway  A 13 th  century lakeside fortress looms over the shores of Lough Corrib. Surrounded by seven acres of enchanted lawns, park, and woodland, the castle invites you to explore its ghostly grounds or tell stories of the past by the fire. Gothic windows and oak-beamed ceilings exude an unsettling charm, perfect for those who dare to stay. Guests can take in breathtaking views of Lough Corrib and the distant hills of Connemara and Mayo. Head to  Airbnb  to explore the Guest Favourites filter further when planning your next trip!

Groundbreaking journalist, playwright and author Nell McCafferty  – who passed away in August – will be remembered next month by friends and fans at a special tribute commemoration evening in Dublin. On Monday November 18th, her friends will gather in the Round Room of the Mansion House to celebrate her life, work and legacy with a special evening of songs, readings and recordings of her media appearances over her lifetime. All are welcome. The event which will be hosted by broadcaster Olivia O’Leary is free but ticketed.  A collection of friends, fans and peers from across her life will gather to read some of her incredible work. These include activists Eamonn McCann, Bernadette McAliskey, Ailbhe Smyth, journalists and writers Una Mullally, Evelyn Conlan, Muire McCallion (niece), Martina Devlin, poet Paula Meehan , trailblazer and filmmaker Lelia Doolan , filmmaker Margo Harkin and more. Music will be performed by the incomparable Mary Coughlan .  Lifelong friend and event organiser Marie Redmond said: “This is a public celebration of Nell.  As well as being an extraordinary talent and activist, in over 50 years of friendship she taught me about being open, honest and forthright and to always speak the truth. Nell has the respect of thousands of people in Ireland and beyond, and I wanted to create an opportunity for us to come together to celebrate the uniquely brilliant talent and person that she was and the impact of her work for the women of Ireland. She was honest, fearless and kind, generous, witty and warm and she changed the very fabric of the Ireland of her time.” Nell McCafferty lived in Dublin from 1970 but always remained a loyal Bogsider, proud of her roots. With a career spanning 50 years, her legacy of work is extraordinary with books including A Woman to Blame, In the Eyes of the Law, Peggy Deery and Nell an Autobiography.  Her ground-breaking writings on the treatment of those with little resources by the courts exposed the injustices of Irish society and the class discrimination that existed in the Irish legal system. Her dear friend Eamonn McCann described her as ‘an instinctual socialist’. She was kind and generous to those in need and a loyal friend always. She changed the position of women in the workplace and in the home and fought for equal pay and rights for women. She spoke truth to power, without a thought of the personal consequences.  Nell McCafferty was a trailblazer, a role model and an icon for generations of Irish feminists with a powerful legacy for us to follow.   Tickets VIA Eventbrite here

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel has launched its very own beer range – in the form of Misery Hill Lager and  Misery Hill IPA , crafted exclusively for guests of the luxury hotel. These unique brews embrace and honour the rich heritage of the hotel’s historic location while offering a refreshing and memorable taste experience. The name “Misery Hill” is a nod to the dark and sombre history of the hotel’s location. Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel is situated at the east end of the Misery Hill site, which once housed a hospital in the 13th century. Sufferers of leprosy were secluded here, far away from the rest of society, receiving only the most basic treatment, hence the name “Misery Hill.” Today, this area has transformed into one of Dublin’s most dynamic, innovative, joyful and lively districts, symbolising a remarkable journey from past hardship to present vibrancy. Misery Hill Lager and  Misery Hill IPA are available exclusively to hotel guests. The  Misery Hill Lager is available by the bottle, while the  Misery Hill IPA can be enjoyed on draft in The Marker Bar & Lounge and the hotel’s destination restaurant, Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins . These beers have been carefully crafted to create unique flavours.  Misery Hill Lager is a crisp, refreshing gluten free lager with a harmonious balance of fruit, maltiness and hop character. Meanwhile, The  Misery Hill IPA has strong American hops in both flavour and aroma with a well-structured, malt backbone. It is light in colour and strong in taste. “We are thrilled to introduce Misery Hill Lager and IPA to our guests,” said Gareth Mullins, Executive Chef at Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel. “These beers not only offer a unique taste experience but also serve as a tribute to the rich and complex history of our location. We hope our guests will enjoy every sip and embrace the story behind these exclusive brews.”

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival returns from Thursday, 24th October to Monday, 28th October , bringing with it a lineup that promises to make this year’s event the most unforgettable yet! Celebrating its 46th year, the world-renowned festival will will take place over the October bank holiday weekend and see its biggest programme yet, with an extra date added and more ticketed shows than ever before, an extended music trail through the city, and a stellar line-up of Irish and international musicians, both veteran and emerging talent.  Over the course of five days, Cork will host a mix of world-class performances, workshops, and events in venues throughout the city. Festival goers can expect a diverse range of musical styles which far surpass dusty definitions of “jazz,” including swing, bebop, fusion, and traditional jazz, but also featuring carefully curated examples of the influence the genre has stamped on the realms of hip-hop, R&B, and dance music. Cork Jazz is for the people! One of the best-loved aspects of the festival is its accessibility. In addition to the top-line shows at premiere venues like the Cork Opera House, Live At St. Luke’s, the Everyman, and the Triskel Arts Centre, there are countless surrounding pop-up events, late night parties, boat trips, spontaneous collaborations, and even brass bands marching through the city streets, making this one of Ireland’s most popular and family-friendly festivals.  The hugely successful 2023 Guinness Cork Jazz Festival smashed all records attracting over 100,000 visitors to Cork City and this year promises to be bigger and better. Headliners You Can’t Miss The 2024 edition is pulling out all the stops, with a lineup that will leave jazz lovers spoiled for choice. Among the headliners: All Stars presents: One Night in Havana Gregory Porter Hot Chip (DJ SET) De La Soul & Special Guest Todd Terje Amadou & Mariam Hypnotic Brass Ensemble Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 Le Boom Mary Coughlan Orchestra Baobab Maya Delilah We Almost Lost Detroit – Brian Jackson and special guests And many, many more! There will be over 50 performers present during the festival from all over the world, with something to suit every taste. The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival 2024 runs over the October Bank Holiday Weekend , from Thursday, 24th October to Monday, 28th October . To secure your spot at the most anticipated shows, be sure to visit the festival’s official website guinnesscorkjazz.com for tickets and programme details.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable week of side-splitting comedy, look no further than the Galway Comedy Festival , taking place from October 22nd-28th! This festival is one of Ireland’s largest and most beloved celebrations of all things funny. Each year, it brings together some of the best comedic talent from around the world, offering the perfect mix of stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy that promises to have everyone rolling in the aisles. Here’s what’s on offer at the Galway Comedy Festival this year, and trust us—it’s a cracker! What’s On at the Galway Comedy Festival 2024? This year’s festival is jam-packed with top-tier comedians, late-night shows, and plenty of unexpected moments. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect: Top Stand-up Acts The festival always delivers an impressive lineup of both Irish and international comedy stars, and 2024 is no different. You can look forward to performances from some of the biggest names in comedy, including: Jason Byrne – One of Ireland’s most beloved comedians, known for his high-energy performances and quick-witted crowd interactions. Deirdre O’Kane – A regular on the Irish comedy scene, O’Kane brings her trademark warmth and hilarity to the stage, balancing charm with sharp observational humor. Russell Howard – Relentlessly funny, endlessly charming and undoubtedly the king of feel-good comedy! Improv and Sketch Shows For those who prefer comedy with a touch of unpredictability, the festival will have some sketch and improv shows too, as well as some extra special events…visit the official festival website for more details on these! Pricing Tickets for the Galway Comedy Festival vary depending on the act and the venue, with something to suit all budgets. Ticket prices for acts generally range from €10 to €40 , depending on the performer and venue. Tickets sell quickly, especially for the big-name acts, so it’s a good idea to book in advance! For full ticket information and to secure your seats, head to the official Galway Comedy Festival website .

Seriously good coffee, a welcoming atmosphere and amazing staff – Esquires Coffee located in the Eyre Square in Galway is the place to go for some delicious food and drinks! Of course, we’ve got to start with the star of the show—the coffee. Esquires has a massive selection of brews to satisfy any coffee lover’s cravings. Whether you like your coffee strong and bold or prefer something a little smoother, there’s something here for you. But what really sets Esquires apart are their seasonal offerings! With autumn in full swing and Christmas just around the corner, their festive drinks are not to be missed. From spiced lattes to cosy hot chocolates, it’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. And don’t worry if you’re not a coffee drinker—there’s plenty more to choose from, including herbal teas, refreshing smoothies, and indulgent milkshakes. Basically, no one’s going thirsty here. The Food – Fresh, Delicious, and Something for Everyone Esquires isn’t just about great coffee; the food menu is equally impressive, regularly changing to keep things fresh and exciting. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or craving something savory, they’ve got you covered. We had the pleasure of trying a few dishes, and let’s just say, it’s hard not to overindulge! For breakfast lovers like me, their French toast is a must-try. It’s soft, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet—perfect with a side of their signature coffee. If pancakes are more your style, you won’t be disappointed. They’re served up with all the toppings you could dream of, making for a seriously satisfying start to the day. Now, if you’re after something a bit heartier, the Full Irish Breakfast is an absolute classic. Packed with everything you’d expect—sausages, rashers, eggs, black pudding—you’ll be set for the day. It’s comfort on a plate, and Esquires does it right. For lunch, we enjoyed one of their burgers , and wow. Juicy, flavourful, and served with the crispiest potato side, it’s the kind of burger you think about long after you’ve finished eating (I’m still thinking!). Everything’s made fresh, and you can taste the quality in every bite. The Vibe Esquires Coffee is all about creating a welcoming space where you can kick back and enjoy your food and drink at your own pace. The vibe here is laid-back but lively, with a steady stream of regulars mixing with tourists, and the staff make great connection with everyone, making it the perfect place for a quick coffee on the go, or a meal with friends. The atmosphere just makes you feel right at home. The interior is decorated seasonally, and when we popped in there were cheerful little pumpkins around as well as other Autumnal bits that just warmed the place right up. There is plenty of comfortable seating for smaller and bigger groups, so there really is something for everyone. What You Need to Know Esquires is located at 11 Eyre Square Galway and is open everyday except Monday. Because of its central location, it’s an easy stop if you’re wandering around the city or doing a bit of shopping. For more information, menus, or to check out their seasonal specials, head over to their website at esquirescoffee.ie . Don’t forget to check out or reel of our visit to Esquires Coffee on our Instagram @Travel2Ireland!

The Wexford Festival Opera is now on from October 18th to November 2nd, and is packed full of standout performances, free pop-up events and Galas, drawing audiences from near and far! Main Stage Operas Le maschere by Pietro Mascagni The title of Le maschere refers to the masks of the commedia dell’arte and in the Prologue the players and their impresario present the characters they are about to play. These characters are: Brighella, a travelling salesman; Dr. Graziano, a man of law; Columbina, his maidservant (in love with Brighella); Pantalone a wealthy resident; his daughter Rosaura (in love with Florindo); a stuttering Tartaglia; Capitan Spaventa and his servant Arlecchino Le convenienze ed inconvenienze teatral by Gaetano Donizetti Le convenienze ed inconvenienze teatrali  (Conventions and Inconveniences of the Stage) is a two-act opera that shines an exaggerated spotlight on the behind-the-scenes working of a theatre and the rehearsal process, showing what can go wrong when the egos of the performers get in the way of putting on a good show.  The Critic by Charles Villiers Stanford The Critic takes place on the stage of a theatre, where a new opera, The Spanish Armada, is in rehearsal. The composer, Mr. Dangle and the librettist and impresario, Mr. Puff, have invited the eponymous critic, Mr. Sneer, to attend. Mr. Puff launches into a discussion of his profession, the theatre and the many merits of his new piece. Gala Concerts and Recitals For those who want even more music in their lives, there are gala concerts featuring some of the finest vocal talents from around the world. These performances are set in the National Opera House and showcase highlights from various operas, allowing audiences to hear their favorite arias and overtures. Additionally, there will be lunchtime recitals that offer a more intimate experience, where you can listen to emerging and established artists in a cosy, atmospheric setting. Pop-up Events and Outdoor Performances Wexford Festival Opera isn’t just confined to the opera house; the town itself becomes a stage! You’ll find pop-up performances in unexpected locations, bringing the joy of opera to the streets, cafés, and historical landmarks of Wexford. Keep your eyes peeled as you stroll through the town for these surprise events. Festival Details Wexford Festival Opera will take place from October 22 to November 3, 2024 , with events being primarily hosted at the National Opera House , but the entire town gets involved with pop-up events, recitals, and other performances. Pricing Tickets for the Wexford Festival Opera can vary depending on the performances and seating options, but typically range from €30 to €150 , with pop-up events being free. For more detailed ticketing options and to secure your seats, visit the official Wexford Festival Opera website .

Sugababes, the iconic 2000’s group have announced a show at the 3Arena on Sunday, 20 April 2025, with tickets on sale now! Sugababes have cemented their place as one of the most successful and critically-acclaimed British girl bands of the 21st century, and since their formation in 1998 they have scored six Number One singles, had millions of global sales and multiple multi-platinum albums. Their recent comeback –  as the original line-up of Keisha Buchanan, Mutya Buena and Siobhan Donaghy – was solidified with their now legendary 2022 Glastonbury performance.  This set the scene for their biggest sold out UK tour, a sold out London o2 Arena and the first new music in a decade alongside another record-breaking field-closing set at Worthy Farm in June 2024 as well as a sold out date at Iveagh Gardens Dublin last summer. The 2000s icons will play the old Point Depot on April 20 2025 as part of a UK and Europe tour, with ticket prices starting at €52.35. For additional dates, the girls will also play Belfast’s SSE Arena the night before!

You’re in luck! The Lighthouse Cinema in Dublin will be hosting the Irish Premiere of Ridley Scott’s GLADIATOR II on November 7th with Paul Mescal in attendance. Here’s everything you need to know! While we wish this was a free-for-all type of situation, this screening is by invite only. The good new is the Lighthouse Cinema have a pair of tickets to give away to one lucky Loyalty+ Member, so if you have yet to  join the club , there’s truly no better time. Not only do you get the best perks of cinema, like discounts on food and drink, no online booking fees and a point system (meaning you can really rack those guys up good and fast), you also get the chance to win tickets to premieres like this, all for just €30. And God knows Paul Mescal is worth that. About Gladiator II If you don’t manage to snag those luxe premiere tickets, fear not, as Paul Mescal (and Pedro Pascal) will accompany you on the big screen for 147 minutes of pure bliss. And whatever else you’d like. From legendary director Ridley Scott, Gladiator II continues the epic saga of power, intrigue, and vengeance set in Ancient Rome. Years after witnessing the death of the revered hero Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius (Paul Mescal) is forced to enter the Colosseum after his home is conquered by the tyrannical Emperors who now lead Rome with an iron fist. With rage in his heart and the future of the Empire at stake, Lucius must look to his past to find strength and honor to return the glory of Rome to its people. The film screens from November 15 for the general public and tickets for the opening weekend are on sale now here.

Perk up – Dublin city centre will come alive for the Dublin by Night Fest, on from the 1st to 2nd of November! Dublin City centre is to again host two night time celebrations next month to recognise its award for consistent excellence across its evening and night time economy. After the success of last year’s inaugural event, the second annual Dublin by Night Fest will mark the city retaining the prestigious Purple Flag – presented to cities with consistently family friendly nightlife. Last year’s events attracted 25,000 people to the city centre across two nights, and this year will see Dublin by Night Fest grow with a new additional city centre location – ‘Alive After Five’. Events will take place on  Friday, November 1  on Drury Street, South William Street and the new venue of Central Plaza, Dame Street. On  Saturday November 2 , Capel Street and Lower Mary Street are at the heart of the action. Events will include lively, outdoor evening and night time street activity, including live music from the city’s up and coming artists, animation, art and culture, market stalls from local shops and food stalls from nearby restaurants. There will also be cookery demonstrations by top Dublin City chefs. A Purple Flag is an award for reaching a standard of excellence in the evening and night time economy through a diverse cultural offering which is non-alcohol dependent, family friendly, safe and above all – fun!

Are you ready to feast your eyes? The TULCA Festival of Visual Arts will be on in Galway from November 1st to 17th, with special talks, screenings, performances and exhibitions! The festival, now in its 22nd festival edition, is titled The Salvage Agency and has been curated by Michele Horrigan . Established as the west of Ireland’s key annual showcase of contemporary art, TULCA continues to embrace Galway’s art institutions, cultural initiatives and public space together, presenting Irish and international artistic positions vital to our understanding of life today. The 2024 programme will feature new commissions, artistic contributions and exhibitions by: Seanie Barron David Beattie Stephen Brandes John Carson Ruth Clinton and Niamh Moriarty Michelle Doyle and Cóilín O’Connell Bryony Dunne Peter Fend and Finn Van Gelderen Regina José Galindo Léann Herlihy Michael Holly Patrick Hough Joan Jonas Catriona Leahy Julie Morrissy Áine Phillips Jorge Satorre Niamh Schmidtke Temporary Services / Half Letter Press Breakdown Break Down Press / Public Collectors Lily Van Oost Stuart Whipps The Salvage Agency considers the agency and role of art in contemporary ecology and environmental action. Michele Horrigan notes “Galway, on the edge of the northeast Atlantic, is a unique location for a heightened awareness of what is at stake. Explorations of landscape, seascape and nature, public space, colonial history, political structures, the industrial complex and folk narratives are all pertinent. These are paths taken by our collective society in the shaping of today’s world and a contemporary Europe. Can art create an undercurrent of improvisation and frugality, haphazard formality, and change to offer new perspectives, provocations and empathy? From the wreckage, can art nourish a new reality?” The 22nd edition of TULCA is realised in venues throughout Galway city and county, including the Printworks Gallery, Galway City Museum, Zoology and Marine Biology Museum, The James Mitchell Geology Museum, Galway Arts Centre, 126 Artist-run Gallery, Galway Civic Trust, University Gallery, Pálás Cinema and off-site venues and public spaces. A series of public talks, screenings, performances and encounters will feature in The Salvage Agency alongside a specially commissioned publication with texts by curator Michele Horrigan, novelist Walter Macken and contributing TULCA artists. TULCA 2024: The Salvage Agency will be presented in multiple venues and locations throughout Galway city and county from 1-17 November 2024. TULCA Festival of Visual Arts is supported by The Arts Council, Galway City Council and Galway County Council. For more information, visit the official festival website at tulca.ie – events are free, so its never been easier to participate!

If you’re up for a spooky night out that brings history and horror together in a way only Dublin can deliver, look no further than the Ghostbus Tour ! Stepping onto Dublin’s Ghostbus isn’t just getting on a bus; it’s going into another world! The double-decker bus itself is transformed into a Victorian-style haunted house on wheels, complete with dim lighting, vintage decor, and a creepy atmosphere that sets the mood before you even get going. Here’s a look at what’s in store: Terrifying Stories : Your guide will share Dublin’s darkest secrets, with stories about grave robbers to gruesome crimes and paranormal sightings. Visit Haunted Sites : Along the way, the Ghostbus stops at some of Dublin’s most haunted locations. Discover the gorey history of St. Kevin’s Graveyard, or the ancient steps at St. Audoen’s. Each stop has its own unsettling history and spooky atmosphere. Live Theatre & Horror Effects : This isn’t just a tour – it’s a horror show. The guide combines spooky stories with theatrical performances, props, and interactive elements that draw you into Dublin’s past. The whole experience will have you jumping in your seat. Much, much more…we can’t spoil the fun! When, Where, and How Much? The Ghostbus Tour departs from 59 O’Connell Street Upper in Dublin city centre. Here’s what you need to know to plan. Dates : The Ghostbus Tour runs regularly throughout the year, so no matter when you’re visiting, you can likely catch a ride. Check their website for the latest schedule and timings. Times : Tours typically run in the evening, enhancing the eerie atmosphere as you roam the streets of Dublin by night. The tour lasts around 2 hours , giving you plenty of time to dive deep into Dublin’s spooky history. Pricing : Tickets start at approximately €35 for adults . The Ghostbus tour also has a kid friendly version available – but beware, book ahead, as seats can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and closer to Halloween! 2 Tickets to Give Away! Does the Ghostbus tour sound good? We’ve got 2 tickets to give away over on our Instagram @Travel2Ireland, with the winners announced on the 1st of November 2024! Brace yourself, and get ready to uncover the darker side of Dublin – if you dare!