It’s time for the ghosts, zombies and numerous Elsa costumes to hit the streets, and sugar levels to hit the roof. Yes, it’s Hallowe’en! As well as being a time where spirits cross over, it’s also a time the kids have a break from school – so it’s important to have things to entertain them! Here’s a look at some of the kid-friendly scare-themed activities which should put smiles (and shrieks) into your family day out this Hallowe’en in Cork City and County.
Leahy’s Open Farm, Midleton.
For a day out suitable for the whole family, Leahy’s Open Farm will host “Boo” this Halloween.
With a haunted hay ride through the farm, the chance to find your way to the witch’s lair and help our little old witch make a magic spell by gathering the special ingredients it should catch the imaginations of everyone! Dressing up is encouraged – and not just for the kids – but ensure you’re kept warm under costumes with layers, it’s Cork in October after all! Normal entry to the farm is 9 euros per person, for the Boo Experience it’s 12 euros a ticket, which includes all of the usual farm activities too. For something a bit different outside of the city limits, it’s a great day out if you get the weather. The ‘Boo’ Experience will take place from 27th October to 1st November from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Pre booking is required.
The Farm, GrenaghÂ
On the other side of Cork, in Grenagh, is another working farm with a great Hallowe’en themed event this midterm. Help the Good Witch, Esmeralda, get ready her tricks & treats ready for Halloween. Visit the Pumpkin Patch in the Secret Garden and choose the Pumpkin that’s just right for you – there are lots to choose from. Choose the one that is just right for you and the witches will carve it while you enjoy some Face Painting.The children will help the Good Witch, Esmeralda, to practice her spells for Halloween and make some sweet treats to take home. Hallowe’en at The Farm runs from October 29 to 31. Tickets are 12 euro per child, and adults go free (yay!). Pre-booking is advised.
Cork City Gaol
Cork City Gaol should be a definite on your list of things to do with the kids this Mid-Term break. From Monday 31st of October to Friday the 4th of November we will have lots to keep the kids entertained this Halloween season. Come in your fancy dress and enjoy our Black Cat treasure Hunt, Face painting, Balloon making and story telling all in the historic surrounds of Cork City Gaol. Only €5.00 for  child admission ticket( 8 euro for adults – family tickets for 2 adults and up to 4 kids are 25 euros). You can even get some history in – festivities aside, the Gaol is a fantastic historical attraction and will definitely leave you with plenty of intrigue! It’s a place I like to visit at least once a year, and think it would definitely add a spooky twist as there’s definitely a chance it’s haunted…..
Dragon of Shandon Parade
The Dragon of Shandon returns this Halloween Night, the 31st of October at 7pm, and following the success of last year’s extended route, will once again cross the river into the City Centre.  The parade starts and ends front of the Building Cork Exchange Butter (Exchange Street).Facilitated by Cork Community Art Link, the parade always draws a good crowd and definitely makes a fantastic family fun activity on Hallowe’en night when the spirits are at play! A true community effort, it involves a number of different groups, including Cope Ireland, Cork Life Centre, Cork City Samba Band, Mens Shed Shandon and many more. I’m looking forward to checking it out this year!
Ghoulsey’s Manor, Cobh
Ghoulsley’s Manor is an immersive & interactive Halloween experience for families. Head to Cobh to experience a spooky & eerie tour of this quirky Manor. Meet the unusual occupants of the haunted Manor in this hilariously ghoulish experience. Show lasts approx. 50 mins – 1hr, it is Eerie and Spooky but not bloody or gory.This runs from 21-31 October. Times: 12pm-9pm Admission: €15 per ticket www.ghoulsleysmanor.com
Youghaloween Spooktacular, Youghal
Youghaloween Spooktacular Festival celebrates the ancient Irish Festival of Samhain. Watch on as the Witches of Youghal call An Bhean Uisce (The Woman of the Water) from her watery home to walk amongst us for three days – collecting our hopes, dreams and wishes. Proceed on a lantern walk led by her drummers, witches and ghostly knights. The only sounds heard are the drums and Youghal’s very own international award-winning Town Crier. Stroll through the Haunted Town Centre with gravestones, an entertainment centre, old funfair games and stage acts like fire shows, belly dancers, and plenty of local talent.
The Historic Ghost Tour is not to be missed through the town’s medieval lanes. Other events include a Haunted Collectors Museum, a Spiritual Convention and Halloween Party. Check out the closing ceremony which sees the witches say goodbye to An Bhean Uisce before she disappears under the waves. If you’re in East Cork, it’s well worth a look! It runs from 28-30 October.
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Those are just six of the family friendly scare events on around Cork. Let me know if there’s something big that I’ve missed! Hopefully this will give you some inspiration for spooky days out while the kids are out of school!
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