Five things to do over the midterm break
As the Halloween midterm is upon us, we look at five things to do in Offaly:
Halloween Pumpkin Trail at Birr Castle Demesne
This Halloween, step into the spooky gardens of Birr Castle Demesne for a frightfully fun adventure the whole family will love. Follow the Halloween Trail through shadowy paths, and find the hidden letters to solve the mysterious Halloween puzzle. Beware… you might just uncover a Trick or a Treat. Children are encouraged to dress up for the occasion, adding to the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to take memorable photos in the picturesque autumn landscape.
Add an extra touch of magic to your visit with complimentary face painting taking place on October 29, 30 and 31 — the perfect way for little ghouls and goblins to complete their Halloween look.
The Halloween Pumpkin Trail runs at Birr Castle from October 24 until November 3.
Púca Spooka in Lloyd Town Park Tullamore
This Halloween, Tullamore will be taken over by caped crusaders with a terrifying twist as Púca Spooka returns with its brand-new theme: 'Scary Superheroes'.
The festival takes place at Lloyd Town Park on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26.
Visitors can explore a Viking Village, enjoy games and performances at the Circus Carnival, or brave the Haunted Maze, a labyrinth full of frights. The Motorbike Stunt Show delivers gravity-defying tricks, and the twisted Carn-Evil Funfair adds eerie excitement to classic carnival fun.
Tickets are available through Eventbrite – don’t miss your chance of a weekend of unforgettable Halloween fun.
The Ultimate Hogwarts Experience
During the midterm break, to tie in with the Hullaballoo! Children’s Arts Festival there will be an array of Children's Book Festival events. Sonya Cuddy’s The Ultimate Hogwarts Experience will be visiting Birr, Clara, Edenderry and Tullamore Libraries (booking essential).
In this Wonderful Workshop of Wizardry get sorted into your Hogwarts House, make your own wand, hunt for horcruxes, take part in potion making and find out who is the Ultimate Harry Potter fan in the TriQuizarding Tournament.
The workshop takes place on Wednesday, October 29, in Clara Library at 10am and Birr Library at 2pm, and on Thursday, October 30, in Tullamore Library at 10am and Edenderry Library at 2pm.
Frank 'n' Stein's Teddy in Tullamore and Birr
Frank 'n' Stein's Teddy, a play designed for little ones aged 6 and under.
Eddy the Teddy is on a mission to find his best friend Sammy Ragdoll after getting separated from him! Along the way, he meets Frank and Stein who have lost their own teddy... will Eddy become the replacement or can he solve the mystery?
Frank 'n' Stein's Teddy, with Barking Dog Theatre, is on at Esker Arts, Tullamore, on Thursday, October 30, at 12pm and Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Friday, October 31, at 1pm.
Living with a Fairy
Join Jay Ryan in a magical family show about his adventures with a fairy who comes to stay.
Featuring live music, storytelling and a simple yet enchanting setting, this delightful performance celebrates imagination and tradition.
Perfect for children up to age 10 and families who love music and stories.
Living with a Fairy is on at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Saturday, November 1, at 5pm.