Northern Ireland

Derry named best Halloween destination in the world

Mayor Elisha McCallion gets into the spirit of Halloween by urging the public to vote for Derry as the top Halloween destination in the world 
Mayor Elisha McCallion gets into the spirit of Halloween by urging the public to vote for Derry as the top Halloween destination in the world  Mayor Elisha McCallion gets into the spirit of Halloween by urging the public to vote for Derry as the top Halloween destination in the world 

DERRY has been named the world's best Halloween spot in a poll by top American newspaper USA Today.

The city won over deadly destinations including Witch Trial capital Salem, Massachusetts, favourite vampire haunt and home of Count Dracula himself, Transylvania, and famous Headless Horseman hang out Sleepy Hollow to take top spot in the 10Best online poll.

We did it! Best Halloween Destination goes to Derry Strabane https://t.co/gOs6D0ZQyW

Mayor Elisha McCallion said: “The event is obviously one of our biggest visitor attractions and each year we strive to offer an even more ambitious programme.

"I think that what makes Halloween so unique in Derry is that the people here don’t just turn out to watch the festivities they are a part of the celebration.

"Since the event first began 29 years ago it has grown year on year thanks to the support and imagination of the public and the many Halloween lovers who visit the city."

She added that winning the top prize would "really enhance the city’s profile and attract more visitors from across the world to enjoy what is always a fantastic family friendly Halloween experience".

Derry’s claim to the number one Halloween title is based on decades of top carnival celebrations which attract tens of thousands of visitors to the city each year.

This year’s programme includes a whole host of spooky events, including the creepy Chateau le Fear’s Trail of Terror, and the magical Awakening of the Walls.

A whole host of family events will be taking place, including ghost tours, story-telling, the Rio Bravo Fiesta and some wicked workshops.

The festivities all build up to the dramatic Rise of the River Gods carnival parade and fireworks finale event on October 31.

For more information on all the events taking place in Derry and Strabane this year go to 

www.derrystrabane.com/halloweenOpens in new window ]

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