Halloween in Killarney: Family Fun & Things to Do This October
Autumn is a magical time to visit Killarney. With colourful leaves across Killarney National Park, crisp mornings, cosy evenings and plenty of Halloween excitement, October is the perfect month for a family break in Kerry.
This Halloween, Killarney has plenty to keep little witches, wizards and grown-ups entertained. From picking the perfect pumpkin and meeting friendly farm animals to spooky boat trips and the spectacular Samhain Chiarraí celebrations, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Here are some of our favourite things to do in Killarney this October.
Pick Your Perfect Pumpkin at Killarney Pumpkin Farm
No October family break would be complete without a trip to Killarney Pumpkin Farm.
Located in Headford, just outside Killarney, the farm returns from 3rd–31st October 2026, giving families the chance to embrace all things autumn. Wander among the pumpkin vines in search of your perfect pumpkin or ghoulish gourd and enjoy plenty of seasonal fun along the way.
There’s more than pumpkin picking too, with magical activities including the Pixie Disco and Potion Station, along with seasonal treats to enjoy in the courtyard. It’s a lovely way to spend an autumn day and get everyone into the Halloween spirit.
Top tip: This is a popular October activity, so booking ahead is recommended.
Experience Samhain Chiarraí – A Kerry Halloween
Halloween has deep roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, and this October you can discover those traditions as Samhain Chiarraí – A Kerry Halloween returns from 15th October to 1st November 2026.
Taking place across Kerry, the festival brings together fire, folklore, storytelling, music and spectacular street performances inspired by Ireland’s ancient Halloween traditions.
Killarney hosts its own programme from 23rd–25th October, with the streets becoming a stage for mythology, music and performance. One of the highlights is Idir Dhá Shaol – Between Two Worlds, featuring illuminated puppets, musicians, drummers, fire performers and stilt walkers.
On Sunday, 25th October, the Cailleach Chiarraí takes centre stage in The Veiling, an atmospheric outdoor fire spectacle bringing together Kerry folklore, music and performance.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to discover the story behind Halloween while experiencing Killarney at its most atmospheric.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to discover the story behind Halloween while experiencing Killarney at its most atmospheric.
Take a Spooktacular Trip on the Lakes of Killarney
See Killarney from a completely different perspective with Ross Castle Boat Tours.
Departing from beautiful Ross Castle, these guided trips take visitors onto the famous Lakes of Killarney, surrounded by some of the most spectacular autumn scenery in the National Park. Regular experiences include trips to Innisfallen Island and the Meeting of the Waters.
For Halloween, things get a little spookier with a Spooktacular Boat Cruise, combining a boat adventure with ghostly tales, eerie islands and Halloween fun for children and adults.
Wrap up warm, keep an eye out across the misty lake and enjoy a Killarney Halloween adventure with a difference!
Go Ghost Hunting at Ross Castle
While you’re at Ross Castle, why not see if your family has what it takes to become ghost busters?
From 24th October to 1st November, Ross Castle is hosting a free Ghost Busters Halloween Event. Nine castle ghosts have escaped, and young visitors are challenged to track them down before they can cause Halloween mischief.
Families can collect a worksheet at reception, hunt for the ghosts and return afterwards for some ghoulish stickers. The activity runs from 10.30am to 5pm and is free of charge.
Meet the Animals at Kennedy’s Pet Farm
For a family day out away from the ghosts and ghouls, head to Kennedys Pet Farm in Glenflesk.
A favourite with younger visitors, Kennedy’s Pet Farm gives children the chance to meet, stroke and cuddle friendly animals while burning off some energy in the play areas. With both animals and playgrounds to discover, it’s a great addition to an October family itinerary.
The farm is currently operating at weekends, so it’s worth checking opening times directly before setting off.
Explore Killarney National Park in its Autumn Colours
Sometimes the simplest days are the best.
October transforms Killarney National Park into a landscape of gold, orange and red, making it a beautiful time for a family walk or cycle.
Take a stroll around Muckross House and Gardens, visit Torc Waterfall, explore Ross Island or hop aboard a traditional jaunting car and let one of Killarney’s jarveys show you the sights.
You can also take boat trips from Ross Castle and Muckross, with routes exploring Lough Leane, Innisfallen Island and other beautiful corners of the Lakes of Killarney.
Pack the coats, bring the camera and enjoy one of the most beautiful times of year in Killarney.
Make Hotel Killarney Your Halloween Base
After a busy day of pumpkin picking, ghost hunting and exploring, come back to the comfort of Hotel Killarney.
With spacious family accommodation and a location that puts Killarney’s attractions within easy reach, Hotel Killarney makes an ideal base for an October or Halloween family break.
Spend your days discovering everything Killarney has to offer, then return to the hotel to relax, recharge and get ready for your next family adventure.
Whether you’re visiting for the October midterm, planning a Halloween getaway or simply looking for an autumn break in Kerry, there’s no better time to experience Killarney.
Pack your costumes, pull on your wellies and get ready for a spooktacular family break in Killarney this Halloween!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is Killarney Pumpkin Farm open?
From 3rd to 31st October 2026. Booking ahead is recommended.
2. When is Samhain Chiarraí in Killarney?
Killarney’s programme runs from 23rd to 25th October 2026, as part of the Kerry-wide festival.
3. Are there free Halloween activities for kids in Killarney?
Yes. Ross Castle hosts a free Ghost Busters event from 24th October to 1st November, 10.30am–5pm.
4. Is there a Halloween boat trip in Killarney?
Yes. Ross Castle Boat Tours runs a Spooktacular Boat Cruise on the Lakes of Killarney.
5. Where should families stay for Halloween in Killarney?
Hotel Killarney has spacious family rooms and is close to all of Killarney’s main attractions.