Scotland has a particularly bloody history and is breeding ground for ghost hunters, paranormal investigators, and people who just love Halloween.
Throughout the country at this time of the year there are unusual events, festivals and events.
Some reflect Scotland’s ancient and Celtic history, celebrating Samhuinn – or “Summer’s End”. Burns’ tales and, in particular, Tam o’ Shanter, feature prominently, while others draw on more recent Halloween traditions and movie monsters.
So get out your costumes, put on your makeup and get ready to be scared.
Samhuinn Fire Festival
Held annually on Calton Hill in Edinburgh (Monday, October 31, 7-10 p.m.), it’s a modern take on the ancient Celtic festival marking the end of summer and the arrival of winter. ‘winter. through the fire, music and dance, the artists tell the story of the clash between summer and winter and create one of Scotland’s most dramatic and atmospheric Halloween festivals. Tickets must be reserved in advance via beltane.org
tamfest
Tamfest in Ayr (Image: Advertiser Ayr)
Taking place in the land of Burns and Tam o’ Shanter, the Ayrshire Halloween Festival has grown from small beginnings in 2019 to something of a local tradition with online and in-person events. There are ghost hunts, an audio play and a host of other activities, culminating in a day-long event in Ayr town center on Sunday 30 October with performers, street performers entertainment and a creative and talent zone. Visit tamfest.co.uk for more information
Is there a witch in the Pollok house?
Pollok House in south Glasgow has a gruesome history of witch hunts dating back to an infamous case in 1677. Today staff continue to highlight the house’s rich history (good and bad) and this weekend end, you can follow clues to find the witch hiding there and participate in other themed activities. A great family Halloween day.
The Ghosts of Glamis
One of Scotland’s most haunted castles will host a special ghost tour this year, telling the stories of specters and spirits who enjoy their eternal rest here in Forfar. An expert guide will tell you the great stories of the Gray Lady, the Woman Without Tongue and many more. Tours run throughout Halloween weekend, between 5pm and 10pm, until Halloween on October 31 inclusive. Check glamis-castle.co.uk for tickets and availability.
glass glow
glass glow (Photo: Colin Mearns/Newsquest)
Dinosaurs roam Glasgow Botanic Gardens as they are transformed into ‘The Land Forgotten by Time’ for this year’s Glasgow. Each year the Halloween extravaganza takes on a new theme and in 2022 visitors are transported back 170 million years to a time when dinosaurs roamed and ruled Scotland. Glasgow’s historic botanic gardens will be filled with dinosaurs, sound and light shows, Food and drink and other Halloween-themed booths. The event runs until November 13 and tickets are already selling out quickly, with several dates sold out.
Ghost Hunt at Crathes Castle
A Green Lady and a White Lady are said to be stalking Crathes Castle, but may find their peace disturbed this weekend when hundreds of youngsters descend on the grounds and the surrounding ancient forest for a ghost hunt. Banchory Castle staff organize ghost hunts and other activities for young people – and their adults. However, it should be kept in mind that there are dedicated time slots for visitors and you must book in advance.
Dark Side Walking Tour
The St Andrews Martyrs’ Monument is the gathering place and starting point for a tour of Scotland’s former university town. Taking place on weekends and on Halloween itself, the tour explores the bizarre tales of St Andrew – from wild rabbits running past the Old Course to a mysterious poisoned sausage massacre. Book your place through Walking Tours Scotland on eventbrite.
The Pursuit of Tam and Meg
The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is the perfect place to celebrate Halloween and the only place in Scotland where you can actually recreate his mad dash past the old kirk and over the Brig o’Doon in safety. Youngsters can also draw their own picture of Tam o’ Shanter and his trusty steed and add it to a temporary Halloween gallery in the museum.
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