Halloween in Dublin: A Guide for International Students
Did you know that Halloween originally comes from Ireland?
Every year on 31 October, millions of people around the world celebrate Halloween with costumes, pumpkins and sweets. But most people do not know that this tradition began right here on this island, over 2,000 years ago. As an international student studying in Dublin, you are in a very special place this time of year.
Where Did Halloween Come from?
Halloween comes from an ancient Celtic festival called Samhain (pronounced SOW-in).
The Celts lived in Ireland, Scotland and parts of northern France more than 2,000 years ago. They believed that on the night of 31 October, the boundary between the world of the living and the world of the dead became thin. Spirits could cross over into the living world, and people lit large bonfires, wore costumes and left food outside their homes to protect themselves.
When Irish people emigrated to America in the 19th century, they brought the tradition with them. Over time, it grew into the colourful, fun celebration that the whole world now knows as Halloween.
So when you see jack-o-lanterns and costumes on the streets of Dublin this October, you are looking at something that started right here in Ireland.
What Is Halloween Like in Dublin?
Dublin takes Halloween seriously — and it is a wonderful time to be in the city.
The streets come alive with decorations, costumes and events throughout October. Halloween night itself is lively and very social. People of all ages dress up, and many neighbourhoods, bars and venues organise special events for the evening.
If this is your first Halloween in Ireland, here is what you can expect.
Things to Do in Dublin at Halloween
Visit the Bram Stoker Festival
Dublin hosts the Bram Stoker Festival every October in honour of the author of Dracula, who was born in Dublin. The festival includes walking tours, talks, performances and events inspired by Gothic literature and horror. It is a unique cultural experience, and many events are free to attend. Look out for events in the city centre and along the Dublin waterfront.
Explore the Streets of Dublin City
On the evening of 31 October, the city centre is full of people in costumes. Grafton Street, Temple Bar and the main squares are busy and festive. Simply walking around and experiencing the atmosphere is one of the best things you can do. It is also a great opportunity to practise your English — talking about costumes, traditions and plans for the evening makes for great real-life conversation.
Attend a Halloween Party
Many bars, restaurants and student venues in Dublin host Halloween parties throughout October. This is a wonderful chance to meet new people, enjoy the celebrations with other international students and practise your English in a relaxed, social setting. Wearing a costume is always a good idea - and a great conversation starter.
Day Trip to the Hill of Ward, County Meath
If you want to experience Halloween in a more traditional Irish setting, consider a day trip to County Meath. The Hill of Ward, also known as Tlachtga, is believed to be the original site of the Samhain festival. The area around it has deep connections to ancient Celtic history. It is about an hour from Dublin by bus or car and is a truly memorable experience at this time of year.
Halloween English Vocabulary - Words to Know
Halloween is a wonderful opportunity to learn some new English words and expressions. Here are some words that are useful to know this time of year:
Jack-o-lantern - a pumpkin carved with a face, with a candle or light placed inside
Trick or treat - a phrase children say when knocking on doors to ask for sweets
Costume - the special outfit people wear on Halloween to look like a character or creature
Haunted - a word used to describe a place said to be visited by ghosts
Supernatural - something that cannot be explained by science or normal experience
Creepy - something that makes you feel slightly frightened or uncomfortable
Spooky - similar to creepy - used to describe a strange, ghostly atmosphere
The veil between worlds - a phrase connected to the original idea of Samhain - the invisible boundary between the living and the dead
Try using some of these words and expressions in class or in conversation with your classmates this week. You might even be able to tell them about the Irish origins of Halloween and impress them with what you have learned.
A Little Irish Language for Halloween
The Irish language gives us some interesting vocabulary for this time of year. Here are a few words and phrases to learn:
OĂche Shamhna (EE-ha HOW-na) - Halloween night (literally 'night of Samhain')
Samhain (SOW-in) - the ancient Celtic festival - the origin of Halloween
Taibhse (TYE-sha) - ghost
Púca (POO-ka) - a mischievous spirit from Irish folklore, known for playing tricks
Cailleach (KAL-yukh) - a witch or wise old woman - associated with autumn and winter in Celtic tradition
Halloween Is a Chance to Connect
One of the things that makes studying in Dublin so special is that you experience real Irish life - not just classroom learning.
Halloween is one of the most social and enjoyable times of year in Ireland. It is a chance to
connect with people, take part in a tradition that is thousands of years old and make memories that you will talk about long after you have finished your studies here.
Use this time as an opportunity to speak more English, explore the city, try something new and enjoy everything that Dublin has to offer in October.
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