The family-friendly fun of the Púca Festival (October 29 - November 1) digs down into Halloween’s native roots in the Boyne Valley, with a spread of activities based in the sprawling Púca Harvest Market in Trim. 

You can also bring the kids to the all-ages Sorcas na Samhna, a dazzling circus with aerial acts, Irish dancing and singing, thrilling daredevils and charming clowns. There's even a Circus Workshop where the kids can become juggling and hula-hooping pros. Older kids can join a historical walking tour of the Hill of Ward or the Beyond the Veil Trail with spooky storytelling, and watch shapeshifting spirits roam the streets at the Púca Procession on October 30. There's a mixture of free and ticketed events to explore across all four days.

See the gateway to the Boyne Valley awash in dazzling light displays throughout Lú the Festival of Light. From October 23 to 26, stunning illuminations will light up the Old Abbey, St Peters Church and Laurence’s Gate in Drogheda, each telling the stories of five of Ireland’s mythological heroes and heroines. Bring the kids for family-friendly street performances, live music and displays that will light up their imaginations.

Enjoy a day of interactive games and play for all ages in Ashbourne, County Meath. Make your way to Emerald Park for their brand new interactive experience, Mega Monster Halloween. Follow the pumpkin trail and say hello to friendly Halloween characters along the way to the Halloween-themed panto performance. Event entry is included in all Emerald Park ticket prices, and under-threes go free. 

Or visit the park at night for the Emerald Park After Dark experience. Take in the twists and turns of the mighty Cú Chulainn Coaster (Europe’s largest wooden roller coaster), or soar through the twilight on the Endeavour at dizzying speeds. Tickets allow unlimited access to these white-knuckle favourites and more, though pre-booking is essential.

With fanciful Halloween activities for families with 2 to 12 year olds, there’s something creepy afoot at Causey Farm near Navan. Pooka Spooka has a Harvest Hall that delights, alongside an adorable gang of farm animals to greet. You can test your mettle in the Mirror Maze and end the day with a spot of Severed Limb Throwing. Get a leg up by booking in advance (kids under two get in for free).

Navan Adventure Centre is also getting in the spooky spirit with their Pumpkin and Fun Halloween Festival. On October 25 and 26, kids can get into the holiday spirit with activities like zombie laser tag, inflatable obstacle courses and pumpkin carving. Children under one get in for free, and you'll need to register for the event in advance. 

Just two minutes from Newgrange and neighbour to the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre is the Red Mountain Open Farm. Visitors can choose from a range of indoor and outdoor experiences at the farm, from playing in the Halloween Barn and Witches’ Den to cuddling fluffy bunnies. Junior farmers can test drive a toy tractor, or take a family spin on the Ghost Carriage. Booking in advance is recommended.

Take in autumn in the Boyne Valley by walking or cycling the Carlingford Greenway with the gang. The route passes old railway lines, and the panoramic views across the mountains of Mourne make for a stunning backdrop. With a mostly flat, gravel trail that takes about an hour and a half to complete by foot, it's not too tiring for little legs.

If it’s adventure you’re after, set a course for Carlingford and kick off an action-packed day. Drop into the Carlingford Adventure Centre and choose from over 20 activities, including kayaking, water trampolining and rock climbing. There are three unique zones spread across Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains, so no matter which activity you choose, you'll be surrounded by pretty, autumnal landscapes.

Once the kids have finished their day's aquatic adventure at Carlingford Adventure Centre, keep the fun going into the evening at the Adventure Lights at Skypark. Running from October 24, the whole family can follow the lit outdoor path and admire illuminated 3D statues and creative installations.