The four day Halloween festival in Derry ends with a massive fireworks display
TENS of thousands of people are expected to flock to Derry over the next few days for what is billed as the biggest Halloween party in Europe.
The festival, organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council, officially gets underway on today, Saturday, October 29
It will finish on Tuesday evening with a fireworks display over the River Foyle.
Last year, around 60,000 people attended the festival.
Mayor of Derry Maolíosa McHugh said those hoping to attend the festival should plan well ahead.
“This weekend the festivities will be in full swing, with four days of family activities taking place across the district.
“With so many people expected here, especially on 31 October, I would urge people to plan ahead to ensure their journey is stress free.
“They should also be aware of all the guidance in terms of road closures and parking.”
Traffic disruption is expected in the city centre, especially as the festival draws to a close with a parade and fireworks display on Tuesday.
The parade begins at the council offices at Queens Quay at 19:00 BST and is expected to last around 90 minutes.
The route includes Boating Club Lane, Strand Road, Harbour Square Roundabout, the Foyle Embankment and Water Street.
The Peace Bridge will be closed from 19:15 until 20:40.
The council’s events coordinator, Liz Cunningham, said the public should “avoid parking in the city centre and allow a bit of extra time for their journey.”
Festival highlights include ‘Awakening The Walls’, which will see the city’s historic walls illuminated by lights; Museum of the Moon, a three dimensional globe by UK artist Luke Jerram and the Samhain Sessions, which will includes performances by Irish singer-songwriter David Kitt and Derry band, Ports.
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