Derry during Halloween is an experience that’s hard to match. The city really gets into the spirit, and as a student at Ulster University, joining the festivities was a great way to unwind and have a memorable night with friends. This year, we decided to dive into the main events, starting with the parade and ending with some downtime at the Bentley Bar.

The night started off with the Halloween parade at 7 PM. We found a good spot, and the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. The costumes were impressive, from spooky to creative, and you could tell people put a lot of effort into it. Watching the floats and listening to the music brought everyone into the Halloween spirit without being overwhelming.
At 8 PM, the fireworks show lit up the sky, and it was definitely a highlight. We watched from near the start of the parade, where the view was perfect because there was less of a crowd then there would've been closer to the Peace Bridge. It was great to just take it all in, snapping a few photos and relaxing with friends as the sky lit up in vibrant colours.
Afterward, we decided to keep the night going by heading to the Bentley Bar around 10 PM. The queue outside was very long and we waited about 30 minutes to get in, but we left so late for going out. I would highly recommend leaving slightly earlier if you want to avoid queues.
The vibe inside was great, and we enjoyed our night with great music, it was a great place to just wind down after being outside for so long. Other events that night were ticketed, but regardless of where you go, you're guaranteed a good night.
Tips for Halloween in Derry as a Student:
- Pick a Good Spot for the Parade: Arriving a bit early is worth it to get a nice view without too much crowding.
- Catch the Fireworks: The view of the city and the fireworks together is worth it. Definitely try and get a spot close to the start of the parade as it was quiet enough and easy for us to get out.
- Plan for a Costume that’s Easy to Manage: You’ll appreciate it later if you’re planning to head out after the festivities.
- Finish the Night at a Student-Friendly Spot: It’s always a relaxed way to end a packed evening.
Halloween in Derry combines the excitement of a big event with the comfort of a close-knit community vibe, and it’s one of those nights that makes being a student here even better.
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