Hoteliers hooray with Hallowe'en set to boost trade

HOTELIERS in Londonderry are looking forward to one of the busiest weekends of the year with thousands of visitors expected to descend on the city for its landmark Hallowe'en festival.

As the city prepares itself for the original and best Hallowe'en Carnival this weekend, hotels and B&B's across the city are getting set to host a busy weekend ahead.

Year on year, the Banks of the Foyle Hallowe'en Carnival delivers a fantastic programme of fun, with a variety of for all ages to enjoy. However the event also generates lucrative benefits for the city with research demonstrating that businesses within the local hospitality sector note a positive effect on their business over the Carnival period.

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Mayor Councillor Colum Eastwood says that the Hallowe'en carnival remains a pivotal event for the city and offers the opportunity to showcase the city at its best.

"The Banks of the Foyle Hallowe'en Carnival has evolved from the spirit of the people from this wonderful city.

"Every year, the city attracts visitors from all over the world to experience this spirit and the unique atmosphere it generates.

"With hotels and B&B's at high capacity over the weekend, it is also set to provide a much needed financial boost for the city.

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"May I take this opportunity to wish organisers well in their final preparations and I look forward to welcoming both locals and visitors to the city centre this weekend."

Visitor Services Manager with the Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau, Odhran Dunne, said: "The Banks of the Foyle Hallowe'en Carnival entertains thousands of visitors year after year and continues to be a key date on the city's events calendar for the local tourism sector.

"The accommodation occupancy levels over the Carnival weekend period have steadily increased in the lead up to Hallowe'en and the city is looking forward to hosting a busy weekend ahead for everyone."

Gerald McColgan, Community Services Programme Organiser with Derry City Council anticipates another successful year.

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"The city's arts organisations and community groups have all played their part in making this festival the city's own and their contribution is reflected in this year's programme.

"The city can look forward to a diverse range of events which will culminate with the Carnival of Light procession and the riverfront fireworks – which promise to be bigger and better this year."

The Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival is organised and funded by Derry City Council.

Full details of the Halloween programme are available at www.derrycity.gov.uk/halloween or contact the Festivals Office on (028) 7137 6545 for further information.