Subscribe to our weekly email
From robots and storytelling to Halloween crafts, community celebrations and animal encounters — here are 12 free family activities in Belfast this half-term.
Pumpkin decorating, monster-mask crafts, spooky stories, face painting, walkabout characters and Halloween discos take over 2 Royal Avenue.
Good to know: These are free Halloween activities within Belfast One’s city-centre programme. Individual session times are still to be confirmed; check the organiser’s page nearer the date.
Check activity times
Give a Sphero robot a spooky makeover, then use your coding and driving skills to bring your little Halloween monster to life.
Good to know: Free drop-in sessions at W5 LIFE, separate from paid entry to the main W5 attraction. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Explore W5 LIFE sessions
Hop aboard a storytelling adventure with author Mel Carroll and discover Belfast landmarks through a family fairy tale.
Good to know: Free, but advance booking is essential and places are limited. Contact Holywood Arches Library on 028 9050 9216 to check availability.
Contact the library
Step into old Belfast for atmospheric storytelling, curious characters and Victorian folklore at 101 Donegall Street.
Good to know: Free tickets are listed by ArtsEkta. Some tales may be spooky, so check suitability for younger children before attending.
Find free tickets
Enjoy an easy-going Sunday of children’s arts and crafts, live music and relaxed family entertainment at The Duncairn.
Good to know: Free for the whole family. The venue recommends arriving early; refreshments are available to buy.
See Super Sunday details
Bring your lantern and costume for a colourful community procession with music and performers along the Falls Road towards Falls Park.
Good to know: The 2026 parade is registered for 7pm on Thursday 29 October. Check Féile’s updates for the gathering point and any programme changes.
Check the registered route
Get on your bike for the monthly community ride through Belfast. A great chance to dress up if the Halloween theme is confirmed by the organisers.
Good to know: The ride and proposed meeting details are as supplied; the October fancy-dress theme and times still need confirmation. Check the organisers’ Instagram before attending. This is an on-road ride; parents should assess suitability.
Check organiser Instagram
Browse local makers and food stalls at Hamilton Dock, then enjoy a free family hay-bale trail beside SS Nomadic.
Good to know: The free hay-bale trail runs daily 24–31 October, 10am–4pm. Market entry is free; food, crafts and selected extras cost extra.
See market and trail details
Children aged 4–10 can meet some of the animals and learn how to care for pets in these free, hands-on workshops.
Good to know: Booking is essential and places are limited. Sessions vary by date: 11am on 24 and 31 October; 2pm on most other days. One responsible adult per child; check allergies and availability.
Book a free workshop
Drop in to The MAC for a family-friendly Halloween morning with circus performances, storytelling, hands-on crafts and face painting.
Good to know: Free drop-in event, with activities aimed at families and children of all ages. Fancy dress is welcome.
See Monster Mash details
Make a Halloween mask, enjoy face painting and try chocolate-apple decorating at CastleCourt’s free half-term sessions.
Good to know: Free family activities advertised for both days. Activities and timings can change; check CastleCourt’s current Halloween announcements before visiting.
Check CastleCourt’s programme
Get close to snakes, lizards, a chameleon, tortoise and other fascinating creatures, and discover more about their environments.
Good to know: Booking essential. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Contact Belfast Central Library on 028 9050 9150 or book through the organiser’s event page.
Book your free placeGet local events, family picks and hidden gems delivered by Belfast Brief — free.