A ‘Hogwart’s Halloween’ at Ashford Castle

{Updated : My family visited Hogwarts (aka Ashford Castle) for Halloween 2014! Read about our amazing experience!}

While we don't have plans to visit Ireland this Halloween, if we did I would be very interested in experiencing this “Harry Potter” styled event at the fabulous Ashford Castle in County Mayo!

The mystique of secret rooms, soaring ceilings, and eight centuries of mysticism and sorcery gives Ashford Castle the authentic “wizarding world” feel that kids will love. Guests will be able to explore the expansive grounds on a treasure hunt, tap into their inner artist with an afternoon in the “chamber of arts,” and channel their inner house elf by going to cookery school. This package has something for every little witch and wizard, and even a romantic dinner for the grown-ups!

Available as one or two night packages, two “Hogwarts Halloween” packages are offered from October 26th through November 3rd:

October 26, 28, 30; November 1, 3

Noon: “Forbidden Forest” treasure hunt for entire family

3pm: Visit to the hiding place of Dingle, Ashford Castle's resident owl (supervised)

4pm: Afternoon “Chamber of Art” painting class (supervised)

5pm – 6:30pm: Kids' dinner in the Ardilaun Suite (supervised)

6:30pm – 9pm: Harry Potter movie evening (supervised)

From 7pm: George V Table d'Hote dinner for Mom and Dad

October 27, 29, 31; November 2

Noon: “Hidden Garden” treasure hunt for entire family

3pm: “House Elves” little helpers cookery school (supervised)

4pm – 5pm: Afternoon “Chamber of Witchcraft & Wizardry” (supervised)

5pm – 6pm: Kids' dinner in the Ardilaun Suite (supervised)

6:30pm – 9pm: Harry Potter movie evening (supervised)

From 7pm: George V Table d'Hote dinner for Mom and Dad

 The one-night package is priced at €495 (approximately US$709) and the two-night package is priced at €950 (approximately US$1,361); both offer accommodation in a Deluxe Family Room. Both packages are based on two adults and two children under the age of 12. An additional charge of €85 (approximately US$122) per night may be applied for each additional child.

This event would certainly make for a very memorable and fun family vacation in Ireland!