The Wolf
Halloween is an institution in Ireland, at least that's how I feel.
When I heard that Limerick was hosting the Lumen Street Parade to celebrate Halloween, I wasn't sure what to expect. In my town in France, we don't really have Halloween parades, so this was a big novelty for me. In fact, I didn't even know this event existed until a friend suggested we go. At first, I hesitated because I didn't know what to expect, but in the end, I went and it turned out to be one of the best experiences of the semester!
The city centre was completely transformed: bright lights, giant puppets, music and families filling the streets. The parade combined art, theatre and mythology in a typically Irish way: creative, a little mysterious and full of community spirit. Everyone, from small children in fancy dress to elderly people waving flags, seemed to be part of something bigger.
Swan in Lumen Street Parade
On the evening of 31 October, I went to a local pub with friends to continue celebrating Halloween. It was my first time experiencing an Irish pub during a party, and I immediately understood why the Irish are renowned for their sense of celebration. There was live music, people dancing, and everyone chatting as if they had known each other for years. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of laughter, perfect for ending the evening. I saw so many creative costumes and really enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends.
The deep, Amara, Homelander
What I love about Ireland is that there's always something going on, even outside of major national holidays. From the Halloween festival in Limerick, which immerses us in an artistic parade introducing us to Celtic mythology, to the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, which I dreamed of attending but unfortunately, I couldn't get a bus ticket for because it was so popular, every season is a new invitation to discover another facet of Irish culture. If you are studying in Ireland, my advice is simple: don't stay at home when you see a poster advertising a local event. Go for it! Whether it's a small village festival, a pub concert or a big parade like Lumen, you will always find kindness, creativity and maybe even a little magic.
by Amara Yatassaye, France
