Historical Halloween Talk : The Spirit of An Gorta Mor

Friel's Bar & Restaurant, 2-4 Kilrea Road, Swatragh, Swatragh, Co Derry, BT46 5QF

Flier detailing the Spirit of An Gorta Mor

About

From Samhain to America: How Famine Emigration Shaped Modern Halloween

Join us at Friel's Bar & Restaurant, Swatragh, for a hauntingly fascinating historical talk exploring how the ancient Irish festival of Samhain journeyed across the Atlantic during An Gorta Mór, transforming into the modern-day Halloween we know today.

Discover "the spirit of An Gorta Mór" through rituals, folklore, and stories of remembrance. From lighting candles to honour the dead, to the Irish emigrants who carried their traditions to America. The evening will also include chilling Derry Ghost Tales, blending local legend with history to capture the eerie magic of this season.

Date: Thursday 23rd October
Venue: Friel's Bar & Restaurant, Swatragh
️Admission Free

Step back in time this Halloween and uncover how Samhain's candles still glow — from County Derry to the streets of New York.

Free entry to Gorta Visitor Centre from 3pm - 7pm on the night.

Guide Prices

Ticket Type	Ticket Tariff
Adult	Free

FREE ADMISSION

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Tel+44 (0)028 7940 1206

Map & Directions

View Map & What's Nearby

Opening Times

Season (23 Oct 2025)
Day	Times
Thursday	15:00	- 21:00

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Friels Bar & Restaurant, MagheraFriels Bar and Restaurant is currently run by the fourth generation of the Friel family. The bar has been in the family name for over 150 years. In the bar, you will get a real feel of the old world, with pictures and memorabilia of bygone times

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