A SERIES OF “spooky events” are taking place across Ireland’s heritage sites over the next couple of weeks.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) announced the full lineup of the programme today, which will comprise events at eight sites across Ireland.

Ghost stories, tours, and treasure hunts are among the offerings this year, which has become an annual programme by the OPW.

Some of these events will be free, while some are either included in the ticket price for the site, or have a cost of €5.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin Boxer Moran, said there’s “something for everyone, young and old”.

Although most of the events are family friendly and children have free admission, Cahir Castle’s “evening of chilling tales” on 28 October is for adults only.

Sligo Abbey invites visitors to hear spooky tales from ‘Old Sligo’ told by Sligo Abbey's Seanchaí or to follow the clues around Sligo Abbey and find a Halloween treat on the Halloween fancy dress treasure hunt. Photographic Unit Photographic Unit

Speaking to The Journal, OPW spokeswoman Sinead Maye said that events held over the Halloween period are aimed at highlighting not only the heritage sites, but that they play host to accessible events for the public.

“We’re just trying to promote the heritage sites, that there is events there where you can explore the castles, explore the floors, see different sites from Ireland’s history – in a fun way.

“Especially for the kids, there’s so many events there they can learn through,” she said.

The heritage sites could be “right on your doorstep”, Maye added.

The eight sites are: Charles Fort Military Fortress, Co Cork; Emo Court and Estate, Co Laois; Ross Castle, Co Kerry; the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin; Portumna Castle, Co Galway; Parke’s Castle, Co Leitrim; Sligo Abbey; and Cahir Castle, Co Tipperary.

Information on all of the respective events is available here. To attend, they must be booked in advance.

There is also a Halloween colouring competition hosted by the OPW. The winner will receive a family heritage card, which allows for free entry into all heritage sites for a year.