The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Ruairí McHugh welcomed the Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, along with CEO of Tourism Ireland, Alice Mansergh, and CEO of Tourism NI, Laura McCorry, to the city yesterday for the opening night of the Derry Halloween festivities and the Awakening the Walled City Trail.
The Minister said: “Derry Halloween has evolved over nearly four decades from a local celebration into Europe’s largest Halloween festival. With the festival attracting around 120,000 visitors annually, with a significant portion from outside the region, it is a major economic driver for the city and region and showcases our rich cultural heritage.”
The Minister continued: “I commend the council and all those involved in pulling together another year of fabulous events. I have no doubt that all the participants and spectators will enjoy the festivities in the Capital of Halloween and I hope the festival goes from strength to strength.”
The Mayor paid tribute to all the hard work that went into the festival, and despite the showers the crowds were dazzled by fire and illumination. “Tonight truly captured the spirit of Derry Halloween bringing together creativity, community and celebration. A huge congratulations and thank you to all the artists, performers, volunteers and organisers who make this event so special each year. With three more nights to enjoy the festivities I’m really looking forward to welcoming visitors to the home of Halloween over the coming days.”
The Awakening the Walled City Trail kicks off again this evening at 6pm, with plenty of family friendly activities taking place throughout the day.
For more on the full programme go to derryhalloween.com
