Hallowe'en carnival details announced

Taking place from Thursday 28th – Sunday 31st October, programme details were launched online today on the official festival website – www.derrycity.gov.uk/halloween.

Checking out this year's programme for the first time, Mayor Councillor Colum Eastwood said that this year's event is set to be a feast for the senses.

"As a regular attendee of the festivities I know only too well the lengths that the people in this city go to in preparing for what is essentially the Mardi Gras of the North West.

"And, the city's biggest festival will have an added glow for 2010, with it being the first since the city was awarded the much coveted UK City of Culture 2013 award.

"The programme has evolved particularly in recent years to have a more family focus appeal, with many visitors planning their mid-term break around the event and this year's programme features something for everyone with a range of events that are sure to delight people young and old."

Explore haunted houses, cruise with pirates on the Foyle, listen to chilling ghost stories and enjoy puppet theatre and family film shows. See special showings from The Twilight Saga, bob for apples and carve pumpkins, become a whizzer witch, enjoy face painting, sports, outdoor markets, ghostbuster tours, farm fun, fancy dress and so much more.

With the celebrations falling this year on Sunday 31st October, Hotels and B&B's across the city are offering a range of special spinetingling accommodation offers to tie in with the festivities.

Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau are encouraging people to book early to avoid disappointment.

Carnival of Light

But the best is yet to come as, on the evening of the 31st October, the "Carnival of Light" parade takes to the street culminating with a spectacular riverside fireworks display, taking place this year at the earlier time of 7.00pm, lighting up the night sky in a riot of colours visible from miles around.

Celebrations will continue into the night with balls, discos and banquets taking place across venues in the city on the Sunday night.

The Mayor continued: "For local and visitor alike, the festival is a unique opportunity to see this most historic and atmospheric city at its most captivating, while enjoying one of the most exhilarating experiences on the island of Ireland".

To view full details of the Halloween programme click on www.derrycity.gov.uk/halloween, contact the Festivals Office directly on (028) 7137 6545 for further information or follow us on Facebook. The Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival is organised and funded by Derry City Council.