Halloween set to bring in millions to Ireland’s economy – north and south

Fáilte Ireland estimates that Halloween events bring in around €40m for local communities and tourism businesses across the island of Ireland.

Over 320,000 domestic and international visitors attended over 800 events last year and it is hoped that figure will increase this year.

This year, Europe's biggest Halloween festival in Derry will celebrate it's fortieth anniversary with a permanent Derry Halloween mural. More than 120,000 visitors are expected to descend on the city from October 28th – November 1st, this year.

Last year's event in Derry cost £550,000 to put on but council officials estimate that, last year alone, it generated £7.4m for the local economy.

It's not just the festivals, last year adults in Ireland spent around €61 million on Halloween. 72% of adults said they spent money on Halloween sweets, decorations, costumes, etc. 1 in 3 adults (33%) decorate their houses for Halloween.

In 2024, consumers spent a total of €1.16 billion in supermarkets in the four weeks to 3rd November, making it the biggest sales month of the year so far.

Figures from Kantar show that grocery sales jumped 6.4%, boosted by Halloween treats and early Christmas purchases.

Shoppers stocked up on Halloween treats, spending a €8.9 million more than 2023 on chocolate confectionery, €2.4 million on savoury snacks and €1.6 million on sweets.