The Maria Edgeworth Centre, Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford, N39 E3C8
1.5 hours
Discover the fascinating traditions of an Irish Samhain and make your own authentic Halloween mask in this hands-on workshop with Dr Melissa Shiels.
Learn how our ancestors marked the end of the harvest and welcomed the darker half of the year through customs, games and protective rituals. Explore traditional celebrations such as Snap Apple, guising, and other seasonal practices, while discovering the beliefs and superstitions that shaped Halloween in Ireland.
Create your own traditional Irish mask using simple materials and learn why these disguises were once believed to protect the wearer from wandering spirits. Whether you’re interested in folklore, history or crafts, this engaging workshop offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Ireland’s oldest and most enduring traditions.
Tea, coffee and traditional barmbrack will be served afterwards, followed by a Q&A. Share your memories of Halloween traditions from years gone by.
Dr. Melissa Shiels
Melissa Shiels is a recent doctoral candidate, awarded her PhD from UCC in 16th-century Irish history, focusing on gift exchange and material culture. She has been making historical clothing since 2002, recreating clothing from the Viking, Medieval, Tudor/Elizabethan, Georgian, Regency, and Victorian periods. Melissa gives costumed talks for a wide range of audiences, both academic and non-academic, speaking in museums, libraries, schools, literary festivals, as well as university lectures.
Notice: Photography and Videography in Progress
Please be aware that photographs and videos are being taken during this event. These may be used for advertising, promotional, or marketing purposes by the facilitators.
By entering the grounds, you consent to your image being captured and used in such materials.
If you have concerns or prefer not to appear in any materials, please speak to a member of staff.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
