Spooky season is officially upon on us and this year Belfast is booming with plenty of events to fulfil your Halloween needs.
From pumpkin patches to spinechilling scarefests, there are a wide range of activities planned throughout the city, so you won’t be disappointed!
Spooky Scare Attractions
If you love spooky stories and are interested in hearing more about Belfast’s hidden secrets, then BelfastLad’s paranormal walking tour is the perfect way to spend your evening.
During the tour, your guides will use real paranormal investigation equipment as you visit locations where strange and unexplained experiences have been reported. There won’t be any actor’s playing jump scares but you can expect to hear some chilling tales.
If you’re looking to test your bravery even further, Crumlin Road’s Jail of Horror is back and scarier than ever. Step inside the Victorian Jail of horror and brace yourself as you embark on an intense jump scare journey.
Both events run frequently, so check out their website for the exact dates and times.
Spine-tingling Screenings
Film fanatic’s and horror stans are in for a treat this month with plenty of events on to satisfy your cinema cravings.
Let’s go Hydro’s, Drive in Cinema is back with an impressive lineup of Halloween classics. What better way to enjoy these spooky films than from the comfort of your own car!
If one film just isn’t enough, you’ll be thrilled to hear that QFT are holding an All-nighter Slasher Slumber on the 23rd October. Grab your popcorn and brave back to back horror right on campus.
It’s not just screams and slashers this month, Belfast Film Festival is also running from 29th October to 7th of November. So, if you want to enjoy cinematic masterpieces from local talent, be sure to check out the full list of events on throughout the city.
Wholesome Autumnal Activities
If you want to ditch the horror for more wholesome vibes, then buckle up because Belfast has lots of cute and creative activities planned that fit the vibe.
Belfast doesn’t play when it comes to picking the perfect pumpkin to carve, so this year they are transforming their City Hall ground’s into a pumpkin patch on the 30th and 31st of October. Secure your tickets and find the pumpkin that screams to you!
Ark Farm are also holding an Adult-only Pumpkin Night, so why not make a whole evening out of picking the perfect one. There will be pumpkin carving, marshmallow toasting and Halloween themed animal encounters to make the evening extra special.
If you’re craving a little creativity this autumn, The Second Fiddle are hosting an entertaining Pumpkin and Pints evening. There will be music, tasty YardBird chicken wings, pints, pumpkins and an arts facilitator on site to give you tips and tricks on how to carve the perfect piece.
Stepping away from the pumpkin theme, Belfast’s Pottery Painting are hosting a student pottery painting night each Wednesday where you get the chance to paint your very own piece from the studio’s extensive list of items and it’s BYOB! They have a range of Halloween themed evenings planned, so check out their schedule here.
Halloween Events on Campus
There are plenty of Halloween themed events right on campus this October, so you don’t have to go far for some spooky themed fun.
For those looking to party, Mandela Hall will be transformed into a Halloween headbanging ball for Belfast’s biggest rock and metal night! You can expect massive rock riffs, Halloween classics, and a strongly encouraged fancy dress code. Be sure to get your tickets before they sell out!
Big Fright In is back and better than ever with this year’s movie being Coraline! Grab your goodies, refreshments and sit back and enjoy a wholesome screening of this Halloween staple in Mandela Hall!
Lore Society & Scream Queen’s Collab for the first time ever to bring you an evening of Podcast and Patches. The evening’s theme will be all things myths and legends with a horror twist as they screen episodes about a Great Pumpkin from African folklore, a Swiss Spider story, the Japanese origins of Dopplegangers and much more! Check out their socials to find out how to sign up.
If you fancy a Murder Mystery Night, the Choral and Singing Society are hosting a mafia-style murder mystery in the Parlour bar. You can expect an evening of secrets, kookie karaoke and fancy dress. So, if you want the thrill of a mystery, why not take a look at this fun event.
Some Final Tips & Tricks
Halloween is always a fun filled time of year with lots of light hearted and entertaining activities, but in the midst of the spooktacular buzz, it’s important to keep yourself safe.
So here are some final tips and tricks to consider:
- Stay safe: When possible, stick to well-lit areas if you’re exploring at night, and remember to travel in groups, especially if you’re heading to any late-night events.
- Plan your journey home: It’s a busy time of year so pre-book your transport or know your route home before you head out.
- SOS Bus: Remember you can always avail of Queen’s Get Home Safe late-night shuttle bus which runs a free service for Queen’s students on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s, with pick up points outside the Kremlin and the Limelight. Find more details here.
- Stick together: Go out with friends and make sure no one is left behind. Keep an eye on each other and agree on a meeting point if you get separated.
- If you’re drinking: Remember to carb load before your night out and to stay hydrated. Keep an eye on your drink and never accept one from someone you don’t know.
- Keep your phone charged: Make sure your phone is fully charged before you go out so you can stay connected with your group.
- Book ahead: Many Halloween events, especially the haunted tours and cinema screenings, sell out quickly. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
