About
Celebrate Halloween by the coast at Ballycastle Seafront from 6:30pm, where a packed programme of entertainment brings the town to life for one of the Borough's most popular Halloween events. The evening begins with the fancy-dress competition, showcasing an array of imaginative costumes before the festivities move through the town in a colourful parade from Dalriada Hospital to the seafront.
Along the route and throughout the event site, visitors can enjoy performances from stilt walkers and fire performers, meet a host of spooktacular characters and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Amusement rides will add to the excitement, creating a lively Halloween celebration against the backdrop of Ballycastle Harbour.
The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks display at 8.30pm, illuminating the waterfront and providing a fitting finale to a memorable night of Halloween entertainment.
FAQs
🎃 When and where is the event?
The Council’s Halloween event will take place at Ballycastle Seafront on Halloween night - Saturday 31st October.
👻 What time is the event?
The Parade gathers up at Dalriada Hospital Lower Car Park from 6pm before departing towards the Seafront at 6.30pm. The amusements will open to everyone from 5.30pm until 9.30pm.
The main event begins at 6.30pm in the Seafront featuring:
Amusements
Creepy Critters
Ray Bubbles
Circus Skills
Carnival Promotions Bubble Car
Fire performers
Fancy dress competitions
And of course... FIREWORKS at 8:30pm! 🎆
Will there be a Fancy Dress competition?
Fancy dress judging will take place at the stage from 7pm for age groups of 0-5years, 6-11 years, 12-17 & 18+
🎃 Is there a quiet time for individuals with additional needs?
Yes. There will be a Quiet Time for individuals with additional needs at the Seafront from 5.30pm – 6.30pm. This will include a creepy critters, Circus Workshop, Ray Bubbles and amusements.
👻 Where can I Park?
Parking restrictions will be in place on the roads near Ballycastle Seafront. Limited public parking is available at Harbour Carpark, Ferry Terminal Carpark and Sheskburn Recreation Centre on a first come first serve basis.
🎃 Is there any disabled parking?
There is limited disabled parking at the Ferry Terminal Carpark which is pre-bookable by contacting Bushmills Visitor Information Centre on 02820730390.
👻 Will there be a parade?
Yes. The Halloween parade will gather from 6pm at the Dalriada Hospital Lower Carpark on Leyland Road walking along Castle Street, The Diamond, Ann Street, Quay Road and North Street to the Seafront. The parade departure is at 6.30pm and it will make its way to the Seafront. Expect short traffic delays at this time.
🎃 Will there be any diversions will be in place?
There will be diversions around North Street, and which will be closed from approx. 6.30pm – 9pm so expect delays at this time and follow the directional signs.
👻 Are there any admission charges?
The events and fireworks are all free admission; however, amusement rides will have a charge per ride.
🎃 Will there be any disabled toilets?
There is a fully equipped Mobile Accessible Changing Unit at the Seafront.
👻 Can I bring sparklers?
❌ No — personal fireworks and sparklers are strictly prohibited.
🎃 Are there amusements?
The Amusements will have a quiet time session from 5.30pm – 6.30pm and are open to all from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.
🎃 Will there be Fireworks?
Yes. 🎆 There will be fireworks at 8.30pm viewable from the Seafront.
🎃 What should I wear?
Fancy dress is encouraged for all ages - you might even win a prize. Please dress appropriately for the weather and with appropriate footwear.
👻 Can I bring my dog?
For everyone’s safety, dogs are not permitted during the event, except for registered assistance dogs.
🎃 Will there be food and drink available?
Yes! A selection of food and drink stalls will be available, offering tasty Halloween treats and hot drinks.
👻 Is the event suitable for young children?
Yes - this is a family-friendly event, although some performances and characters may be a little spooky! Parental discretion is advised.
🎃 What safety measures are in place?
Stewards, first aiders, and emergency services will be on site throughout the event to ensure everyone’s safety.
