funding opportunities

We have a range of funding and opportunities as part of Derry Halloween 2026.

This year’s festival will be delivered under the theme “It’s in Our Bones”. At its heart lies a shared celebration of imagination, wit, wonder and folklore, where people transform, tell the tallest tales and the unbelievable seems believable for a few enchanted days and nights.

We are now inviting artists, creative practitioners, organisations, venues, and community groups to contribute to this world-renowned festival through a series of tenders and open call opportunities.

Parade Artistic Director (Tender) – overall creative direction, coordination and delivery of parade content Partner Organisations (Tender) – delivery of key programme elements, including the Awakening the Walled City Trail and parade activity. Access via:
derrystrabane.com/business/tenders
Artist Led Animation & Event Enhancements (Call Out) – artist-led performances, installations and street animation
Community Led Participation (Call Out) – support for local groups, performers and community animation
Arts & Cultural Venues Subvention Fund (Call Out) – support for venues, businesses and organisations to deliver family-friendly programming
Artist / Creator / Maker Opportunities – a further call will follow the appointment of the Artistic Director

Parade Artistic Director

Artist Led Animation & Event Enhancements

Community Led Participation

Arts & Cultural Venues Subvention Fund

What We’re Looking For:

We are seeking high-quality, creative, and deliverable proposals that:

Respond to the 2026 theme, “It’s in Our Bones”
Demonstrate originality and artistic excellence
Enhance the overall visitor experience
Contribute to a vibrant, inclusive, and engaging festival programme

Whether you are an established organisation or an emerging creative, we encourage you to bring forward ideas that will help shape another unforgettable Derry Halloween.

Deadline – 12noon on Monday 29^th June 2026