Samhain Community Dance Spectacle: A Thriller in Eyre Square

Presented by the Genevieve Ryan Dance Academy and Galway City Council Night-Time Economy as part of the Gaillimh Ah-Boo!, Home of Halloween Programme.

Eyre Square, October 26th
18:00 PM – 19:00 PM
Family friendly
Accessible

Get ready, Galway. The Genevieve Ryan Dance Academy is taking over Eyre Square once again with a spine-tingling community dance spectacle unlike any other.

This unique Samhain celebration will bring ancient folklore and modern pop culture together through a spectacular reimagining of Michael Jackson’s iconic Thriller dance. As the veil between worlds grows thin at this sacred time of year, Galway’s residents, community groups, dance schools, families and visitors are invited to step into a space beyond time and become part of a living piece of folklore.

At the heart of the performance is a coven of powerful Celtic women connected to nature, ancestry and the changing seasons. Emerging from the streets as if summoned by the spirit of Samhain itself, they draw audiences into a captivating story where myth and reality intertwine. As the performers move through Eyre Square, spectators will feel as though they are witnessing an ancient ritual unfolding in real time. Eyre Square becomes a stage. The city becomes a meeting place between worlds.

More than just a dance performance, this is a vibrant and inclusive street spectacle designed for everyone to take part. Attendees are encouraged to dress up, embrace the spirit of Samhain, and join the celebration. The Genevieve Ryan Dance Academy has created easy-to-follow instructional videos so participants can learn the choreography in advance, while professional dancers will be on hand on the night to guide everyone through the routine.

Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a first-time mover, you’ll be right at home in this unforgettable community celebration of creativity, connection and Celtic tradition.

TAP HERE to learn the dance and be ready to participate

Come together this Samhain and help transform Galway’s city centre into a thrilling, magical spectacle where folklore comes alive and everyone has a role to play.

The Samhain Community Dance Spectacle, is funded through the Galway City Council Night-Time Economy and Gaillimh Ah-Boo! Programme and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport

Photo Credit Joseph Padfield.

Dates/Times

26th October 2026 @ 18:00

Address/Venue

Eyre Square
Galway City View on Map

Ticket Info

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