The Bandon Banshee Festival shrieks into town this weekend, with The Henry Girls performing on Friday October 24th in St Peter’s Church, with support from Leen, a Palestinian singer, poet, and artist, in what promises to be a very special night.

The festival continues through the next two weekends, with lots to do for kids and adults, including a talk by Dr Belina Vigors on her book, Threatening Woman: A Cultural History of Why Ireland Shamed and Contained Women in Bandon Town Hall, and the ever-popular Bandon Banshee Parade on Halloween night itself in the Riverview Shopping Centre with BanLoachra na Croí (female fire performers).

The festival will also host a performance of The Gaza Monologues, and a live recording of the popular Into the Mythic podcast, exploring the enduring power of Irish folklore and Samhain traditions. Children’s events include a ‘Make a Lantern’ workshop with willow, and children’s storytelling with Eoin deBhairdhuin and Paddy Doyle. See Creative Bandon for more information.

GHASTLY GOLEEN

Meanwhile and further west, the third annual Goleen Fright Night takes place on Thursday, October 30th when the local community centre comes alive with zombies.

A group of local volunteers, with help from Goleen Foróige Club will host their much-anticipated Halloween shenanigans which raises funds for the local community council.

Last year more than 300 brave souls dared to enter the ‘scary forest’, and this year organisers say it promises (or threatens!) to be even more terrifying.

However, smaller visitors (or those who just don’t want to be frightened out of their wits) can enjoy some alternative options, browsing the stalls, eating popcorn and candy floss or taking away some beautiful cakes at the stall hosted by the Goleen NS Parents Association.

As always there will be a pumpkin carving competition, so don’t forget to bring your masterpiece with you on the night.