Halloween magic returns

Five days of creativity, performance and Halloween magic return to Nenagh from Tuesday to Saturday, October 27 to 31.

Spleodar Halloween Arts Festival returns to Nenagh with a packed programme of creative workshops, live performances and family friendly Halloween adventures celebrating this year’s theme, 'Halloween Around the World | Samhain ar Fud an Domhain'.

Now a well established fixture in Nenagh’s cultural calendar, Spleodar began as a community festival in 2000 with a mission to bring quality arts experiences to children, young people and families across North Tipperary. Over the past 26 years, it has grown into a much loved annual celebration of Halloween, bringing artists, performers and audiences together throughout the town.

This year’s theme explores how Halloween and seasonal traditions are celebrated across different cultures, while recognising the rich folklore and Samhain traditions rooted in Ireland’s own heritage. From hands-on creative workshops to spectacular outdoor performance, Spleodar 2026 offers opportunities for families to get involved, try something new and experience the arts together.

The programme features a diverse range of activities for different ages and interests. Young creatives can get hands on with stop-motion animation workshops led by artist Mike Byrne, sensory friendly mask making with visual artist Lynn Kenny, and a collage workshop with Aishling Martin exploring mythology and magical creatures. Budding writers can also take part in a creative writing workshop with Fighting Words, while younger participants and their families can embark on a musical adventure through songs and traditions from around the world.

For those looking for something a little more spectacular, circus and performance company ROGU will bring its energetic circus skills workshop to the festival, followed by 'Mobius from the Book of Fire', an outdoor performance combining circus, dance, martial arts and fire. A lantern hat making workshop will also give young participants the opportunity to create their own illuminated creations for the Halloween celebrations.

The programme extends beyond the main festival week, with a series of scarecrow building workshops led by Geraldine Wisdom taking place throughout October. Participants will create their own characters using natural, recycled and colourful materials, with the finished scarecrows adding a festive touch to the surroundings of Nenagh Arts Centre.

As always, Spleodar aims to make the arts accessible and welcoming, with a mix of free activities, affordable workshops and opportunities for families to participate together. The festival culminates in Nenagh’s much loved Halloween celebrations, bringing the community together for a colourful parade and fireworks display.

The Spleodar 2026 programme runs from October 27-31, with additional activities taking place throughout the month. Advance booking is essential for selected workshops, and early booking is encouraged as places are limited.

FURTHER DETAILS

For the full programme, event details and booking information, visit www.spleodar.ie or contact Nenagh Arts Centre on 067 34400.