Press Release

Family Hocus Pocus at the Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival

Thursday, 20 October 2004

Kicking off on Monday 25th October the Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival programme features a range of spooktacular events specially programmed for families.

Family Hallowe’en highlights throughout the weeklong event include Ghostbustours, Storytelling, the St Columb’s Park Haunted House of Fun, film screenings, the Guildhall Country Food Fair and various workshops in costume and mask making at a number of City’s cultural venues.

Commenting on the importance of hosting Hallowe'en events for everyone in the City, Mayor Councillor Gearóid Ó hEara said:

“The Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival has become synonymous with fun for everyone and I’m delighted to see such a vast range of events for families in particular this year, including the alcohol free zone at Guildhall Square which provides families with a perfect area to relax and enjoy the celebrations. ”

The festival culminates with a host of events taking place on Sunday 31st October in preparation for the annual massive outdoor street party, including Storytelling at the Tourist Information Centre and the Playhouse Hallowe’en Pumpkin Bash.

Renowned for some of the most original and extravagant Hallowe’en costumes the Crazy Costume Day, which this year is sponsored by the Irish Star, also provides children and families with an opportunity to play their part in the Carnival atmosphere and be in with a chance of winning some fantastic prizes.

The Family Fun zone in Guildhall Square will be transformed into the City’s Carnival Centre on the 31st October featuring face-painters, balloon modelling, street performers and carnival bands. The celebrations will continue throughout the day with the BBC Radio Foyle outside broadcast, featuring interviews, competitions and live music from the latest pop sensations Emale, Raymac and Wot Nxt. Following the River Foyle fireworks Guildhall Square will swing into the night to the sounds of the charismatic Jerry Fish and the Mudbug Club.

Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival programmes are currently available from Derry City Council and the Tourist Information Centre on 44 Foyle Street or alternatively request a programme visit www.derrycity.gov.uk/halloween, email: halloween@derrycity.gov.uk or telephone (028) 7137 6545.

The Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival is organised by Derry City Council in association with the Department for Social Development and sponsored by the Northern Ireland Events Company, Lucozade Energy and Star Newspaper.

ENDS

Further press information can be obtained by contacting the City Marketing Department at Derry City Council. Tel. 028 7137 6504 Carnival Information Tel. 028 7137 6545

For additional information contact:

Press Office

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