Halloween at Pembroke Kilkenny: Stay, Dine & Discover Ireland’s Home of Halloween

As autumn sweeps across the marble city, Kilkenny transforms into a place of flickering lanterns, fireside feasts, and ghostly legends. This October, the city proudly takes its place as one of the featured destinations in Fáilte Ireland’s “Ireland: The Home of Halloween” campaign — and there’s no better time to experience it all than with a stay at Pembroke Kilkenny.

Whether you’re planning a Halloween weekend escape or a midterm break getaway, join us for a celebration of folklore, food, and fun in the heart of medieval Kilkenny.

Kilkenny: Where Halloween Comes Home

Kilkenny has been chosen as one of Ireland’s showcase destinations for the Home of Halloween campaign, recognising our city’s deep connection to the origins of Samhain — the ancient Celtic festival that inspired modern Halloween. Steeped in history and mystery, Kilkenny is the perfect stage. It was here in 1324 that Petronella de Meath was burned at the stake, a story that still echoes through the cobbled streets today. Petronella worked as a maid to Dame Alice Kyteler and became the scapegat for Alice's alleged crimes of witchcraft and murder.  

This year’s theme, “Fire, Feast and Folklore,” brings the spirit of the season to life with a citywide programme of events — from haunting tales and torch-lit tours to harvest food markets and family adventures.

For the full list, visit Visit Kilkenny’s Home of Halloween page

Plan The Perfect Halloween Getaway

• When to visit: Halloween weekend (25–28 October) and midterm break (through early November).

• Who it’s for: Families, couples, and anyone who loves autumn, folklore, and a little mystery.

• Why stay at Pembroke: Central location, luxury comfort, delicious dining, and easy access to all of Kilkenny’s Halloween highlights.

So, pack your cosiest jumper, bring your sense of adventure, and step into Ireland’s Home of Halloween — with Pembroke Kilkenny as your home away from home.

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