Everything is in place for Europe’s biggest Hallowe’en spectacular as the City of Bones throws open its gates to welcome revellers to the fangtastic Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival.
The carnival attracts tens of thousands of visitors to Derry each year, and with an even wider programme of family events for 2014 and the big night falling on a Friday, huge crowds are expected to attend the carnival parade and the spectacular fireworks finale tonight.
Hundreds have already been to the Chateau le Fear at Ebrington, and the Freaky Funfair which has been providing thrills and chills aplenty.
The city’s historic walls will be transformed into a spectacular dreamscape for the Awakening of the Walls – Citadel of Dreams, and there are a whole host of family friendly events taking place at venues right across the city.
Mayor of the city, Councillor Brenda Stevenson issued a warm welcome to the thousands of visitors already arriving for Ireland’s most popular fright night. “As always we have a fantastic night of celebration planned and the Hallowe’en programme has been in full swing with events taking place right across the city for the past week.
“I would like to welcome all those travelling to share in what has undoubtedly become the most popular night of the year in Derry. We are delighted to see the high levels of hotel occupancy throughout the entire weekend for what promises to be yet another fantastic event for the city.
“I would ask everyone to enjoy the night sensibly, as this is very much a family friendly event to be celebrated responsibly and enjoyed by everyone.”
The main celebrations kick off with the Carnival Parade which leaves the Queen’s Quay carpark at 7.oopm making its way up the Strand Road before returning along the Queen’s Quay.
The spectacular fireworks finale event on the Foyle will begin at 8.00pm, with vantage points right along the quayside and Waterside areas.
Members of the public who normally view the fireworks at Ebrington Square should be mindful that the viewing area will be restricted due to the funfair.
Motorists and pedestrians are being warned to expect some level of disruption to movement throughout the city centre due to the huge crowds expected, with restrictions on parking in some city centre locations.
The celebrations will continue well into the night with Hallowe’en Balls and entertainment galore at venues throughout the city.
And there will be a number of family events continuing on through the weekend, including the Awakening of the Walls Citadel of Dreams, Chateau le Fear, the Freaky Funfair and the Mayor’s Family Funday at the Guildhall on Sunday.
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