October in the Causeway Coast & Glens is a time of vibrant autumn colours, seasonal festivities, and spooky excitement. As the crisp air sets in, the region comes alive with a fantastic line-up of events that showcase the best of our local culture and traditions.
From the Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival, celebrating our finest local produce, to the Sperrins Walking Festival, offering guided tours through stunning autumn landscapes, there’s something for everyone.
The Glens Storytelling Festival and a host of Halloween events promise family-friendly fun and seasonal thrills. It’s the perfect time to join us for an unforgettable autumn break!
What's On in the Causeway Coast & Glens - October 2024
Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival
4th-6th October | Bushmills
The Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival returns this autumn, celebrating local heritage with a focus on food, drink, and the history of Bushmills. Taking place from 4th-6th October, the event promises a vibrant atmosphere with food tastings, cookery demonstrations, and bespoke foodie tours. Visitors can explore a self-guided Taste Trail, enjoy live music, street entertainment, and a full programme of activities and entertainment.
The Great Rock Reset
5th-6th October | Portrush
The Great Rock Reset, hosted by Elephant Rock Hotel, is the perfect wellness escape this autumn. Taking place on 5th-6th October, this retreat offers guests a chance to reconnect with nature through guided hikes, movement sessions, and cold water swimming. Partnered with local adventure company Revive North Coast, the itinerary includes a hike at Binevenagh, a two-course evening meal, and a refreshing cold-water swim. With prices starting from £380, this event is designed to relax, revive, and recharge participants amidst the stunning scenery of the Causeway Coast.
Walk & Sketch at Swell Festival
6th October | Portstewart
Join artist Sarah Carrington for a creative exploration of Portrush during the Swell Festival's "Walk & Sketch" event on 6th October. This relaxing outdoor experience invites participants to enjoy the rhythm of walking while sketching the beautiful local scenery. No prior experience is required, as Sarah will guide beginners and experienced sketchers alike in capturing the essence of the landscape. This activity offers a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, stimulate creativity, and enjoy some time outdoors while learning new skills.
Portrush Beer Fest
11th-12th October | Portrush
Raise a glass at Portrush Beer Fest 2024, a celebration of craft beers and local artisan food. Held on 11th-12th October, this event showcases the best breweries from across Ireland, offering a range of ales, IPAs, stouts, and more. Beer enthusiasts can browse the stalls, sample new brews, and enjoy food from local traders. Whether you're keen to discover a new favourite brewery or just want to soak up the festival atmosphere, Portrush Beer Fest promises a lively, flavourful experience for all.
Portrush Point-to-Point Races
12th October | Portrush
Experience the thrill of horse racing at the Portrush Point-to-Point Races on 12th October, often referred to as the grassroots of Irish horse racing. Unlike regular racecourses, this unique event takes place on a pop-up course, offering a rare chance to get up close to the action. Spectators can watch from the sidelines and feel the power of the horses in full flight. A fun day out for all the family, it's an exciting opportunity to witness future stars of the racing world in a beautiful countryside setting.
Causeway Speciality Market
12th October | Coleraine
The Causeway Speciality Market, an award-winning outdoor market in Coleraine, is a bustling hub for local produce and crafts. Surrounding the historic Town Hall, it’s a place where artisans and food producers showcase their goods at up to fifty different stalls. From handmade jewellery to artisan breads and sweet treats, it’s a celebration of Northern Ireland’s finest, supporting the ‘shop local’ ethos.
2-Day Pit Firing Pottery Course with Patricia Millar Ceramics
12th-13th October | Bushmills
Join Patricia Millar for a hands-on, 2-day pit firing pottery course in Bushmills on 12th-13th October. Learn ancient pottery techniques, including burnishing, making terra sigillata, and packing and firing an earthen pit. This immersive course provides all materials, plus two lunches, as participants prepare and fire their own creations. Ideal for pottery enthusiasts of all levels, this is a rare chance to experience traditional firing methods in a stunning rural setting. Don't forget to bring your own work to make this creative weekend truly unique.
Sperrins Walking Festival
12th-13th October | Various locations
Join the Sperrins Walking Festival this October, where walkers can explore the breathtaking Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With moderate and challenging walks, participants will discover dramatic landscapes, including clifftops, woodlands, and farmland trails, while learning about the region's rich history, geology, and environmental heritage. Organised by The Sperrins Partnership and Far and Wild, this event aims to attract diverse walkers and promote the benefits of connecting with nature.
Halloween Ghost Stories & Tours with Francis Higgins
13th & 22nd October | Ballycastle & Bushmills
Join 'The Ghostman', Francis Higgins, for spine-chilling Halloween ghost stories and paranormal tours in the Causeway Coast & Glens this month. At Marine Hotel (13th October), you’ll explore Ballycastle's haunted sites. At Causeway Hotel (22nd October), enjoy a unique experience of ghost stories from Higgins' latest book followed by a ghost hunt around the hotel with paranormal equipment. Book the 'Spook & Stay' package at Causeway Hotel for a night of ghost stories, dinner, and overnight stay for £250 per couple, including breakfast.
Glens Storytelling Festival
17th-20th October | Cushendall
Immerse yourself in a world of tales, myths, and legends at the Glens Storytelling Festival, running from 17th-20th October. Experience captivating story walks, performances, and music, all celebrating the magic of storytelling traditions. This family-friendly event brings cultural richness and creativity to the quaint and rural village of Cushendall in the Glens of Antrim.
Roe Valley Speciality Market
19th October | Limavady
Discover locally-produced food, art, and crafts at the Roe Valley Speciality Market, Limavady. This small and friendly outdoor market, located next to Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, offers visitors the chance to explore a variety of fresh foods, handmade crafts, and local products. The market is free to attend and showcases the best of local talent.
Carrick-a-Rede Halloween Fun Fest
26th-27th October | Ballintoy
Get ready for a spooky adventure at the Carrick-a-Rede Halloween Fun Fest! Solve riddles on a horror trail, cross the famous rope bridge in zombie style, and enjoy creative mask-making. Families can also challenge each other to Halloween games and enjoy a creepy-themed Bug Brunch at the Weighbridge Café. Be sure to come in costume for a truly frightful experience!
Ruffled Cushion Cover Block Printing Workshop
26th October | Coleraine
Join Jenna from Sychar’s Well for a creative morning block printing on French linen cushion covers at Camus House, Coleraine. Running from 10:30am to 2pm, participants will experiment with hand-cut blocks, create unique patterns, and enjoy seasonal refreshments like apple and toffee-infused scones. This workshop is perfect for beginners and promises a cosy, artistic experience.
The Spirit of the Bann Whiskey Tasting Tour
26th October | Coleraine
Slowly savour distinctive flavours and the stunning surroundings of the River Bann with White River Charters, on their vintage vessel, 'MV Kingfisher', in collaboration with Causeway Coast Foodie Tours. Their onboard Bushmills whiskey guide will introduce you to a selection of whiskies produced by Old Bushmills Distillery, accompanied by a hand-picked selection of award-winning local produce including charcuterie, cheeses, dipping oils & home-made chutneys from around the Causeway Coast.
Halloween Happenings in the Causeway Coast & Glens
29th-31st October | Various locations
Get ready for spooktacular celebrations across the Causeway Coast & Glens, in Coleraine, Ballymoney, Ballycastle, and Limavady. Enjoy live music, entertainment, fancy dress competitions, dazzling fireworks, and much more frightful fun from 29th to 31st October! Join us for a Halloween filled with family-friendly festivities and frights in the heart of Northern Ireland.
Halloween Adventure Ride with Crindle Stables
29th October - 1st November | Limavady
Take the family on a Halloween Adventure Ride at Crindle Stables! From brushing your pony to riding lessons, and playing competitive Halloween-themed games, this experience is designed for beginners and is also autism-friendly. Enjoy an autumn trek (weather dependent) or feed your pony after the session. It's an hour filled with smiles and fun for all ages!
TENX9: Halloween
30th October | Limavady
Share your own ghost stories or hear tales of haunting past events at Tenx9’s Halloween edition on 30th October. This popular storytelling evening invites participants to tell a true story from their life in just 10 minutes. Admission is free, but be sure to book early as these events always draw a crowd!
Finn's Frightful Fun Fest at The Giant's Causeway
31st October | Bushmills
Celebrate Halloween at Northern Ireland's iconic Giant's Causeway with Finn's Frightful Fun Fest! The day includes spooky tales, face painting, a haunted treasure hunt, and creepy crafts. Dress as your favourite Halloween character and explore this World Heritage Site in true Halloween style. Pre-booking is advised.
Halloween Movie Night at The Bushmills Inn
31st October | Bushmills
Enjoy an intimate movie night at The Bushmills Inn on Halloween with a screening of the classic film Practical Magic, accompanied by a delightful 2-course supper. Gather your friends or make it a date night, and enjoy this cinematic experience from 6:30pm to 10pm, just in time to catch the Halloween spirit in this historic location.
Whether you're indulging in the flavours of the Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival, exploring the scenic trails of the Sperrins Walking Festival, or enjoying the spooky thrills of Halloween events, October in the Causeway Coast & Glens offers a packed line-up full of unforgettable experiences.
Embrace the magic of autumn and immerse yourself in the seasonal charm, rich culture, and welcoming community that make this region a must-visit destination in Northern Ireland.
