Mid and East Antrim stirs up a cauldron of excitement as Halloween creeps closer!

Mid and East Antrim is gearing up for a spine-tingling celebration as Halloween approaches, with a packed programme of eerie entertainment and family-friendly fun across Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne.

From haunted houses and ghost tours to pumpkin patches and spooky storytelling, the borough is promising something for everyone – whether you’re chasing chills or simply after a night of frightful fun.

“Mid and East Antrim is your one-stop-shop for all things Halloween,” the Council said, as local communities across the area prepare to “pull out all the stops” for this year’s festivities.

Visitors can expect themed markets, fireworks, and plenty of treats (and perhaps a few tricks), with many events free or low-cost to ensure everyone can join in the fun.

Carrickfergus: Haunted cottages and witch trial tales

At the historic Andrew Jackson Cottage, children can enjoy Halloween crafts running from Saturday 25 to Thursday 30 October, before the cottage hosts ‘Ghosts by the Fire’ on Halloween night — an evening of folklore, ghost stories and local legends uncovering Carrickfergus’ haunted past.

Meanwhile, over at The Gobbins Visitor Centre, the acclaimed “Re-Imagining the Islandmagee Witches” exhibition continues daily until Sunday 2 November, before it travels to Salem, USA – home of the world’s most famous witch trials.

The exhibition delves into the story of Ireland’s last witch trial, held at Carrickfergus courthouse in 1711, when eight women and one man were found guilty of witchcraft.

Special children’s storytelling sessions — The Last Witches of Islandmagee — take place on Sunday 26 and Thursday 30 October at 12noon and 2pm.

Ballymena: Ghostbusters and Hallowena celebrations

Ballymena’s spookiest spectacle, Hallowena, returns on Thursday 30 October, with the famous Ecto-1 car from Ghostbusters on display at the Harmony Hub from 2pm to 3pm.

Tickets for the main evening event are selling fast, with limited availability for the 6.30pm entry.

The Council has reminded attendees that for everyone’s safety, “no dogs, alcohol or fireworks are permitted in the park and under-16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.”

On Friday 31 October, families can also enjoy Ballymena BID’s ‘Ghostie’s Spooktacular Halloween Trail & Storytime’, featuring a Trick or Treat Trail from Fairhill (12noon–4pm), face painting, a fancy dress competition, storytelling and more.

Larne: Carnival fun and Halloween Hooley

Larne town centre will come alive with a Fun and Fright Carnival on Thursday 30 October (1pm–3pm) at Broadway, where costumes are encouraged and laughter guaranteed.

Then, on Halloween night, Larne Town Park will host the Halloween Hooley — a free, ticketless event featuring carnival games, messy play, fire performers, walkabout characters and a “relaxed” session from 5.15pm to 6pm for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere.

Autumn craft fair rounds off the season

The Halloween fun continues into November, with The Gobbins Visitor Centre hosting a special Autumn Craft Fair on Saturday 8 November (10am–3pm), showcasing local handmade creations — from jewellery and woodwork to beauty and wellbeing products.

Perfect for early Christmas shopping, the event celebrates local talent and supports small businesses across Mid and East Antrim.

Whether you’re planning a night of fright or a day of delight, the borough’s Halloween calendar offers something for every ghost, ghoul and goblin.

So, grab your broomstick, dust off your costume, and get ready for a hauntingly good time across Mid and East Antrim.

For a full list of Halloween events, visit www.ShapedBySeaAndStone.com/Halloween.