Kevin O’Neill appointed artistic director for Derry’s 40th anniversary Hallowe’en parade amid rise in funding for artists

Mr. O’Neill, a renowned carnival co-ordinator, will bring over 30 years of experience to the role, working with three leading local arts organisations - Fuse Arts, Greater Shantallow Community Arts and Newgate Arts Centre – to help bring the anniversary parade to life.

Mr. O'Neill, who manages Inishowen Carnival Group, said he was delighted to be leading the artistic direction in such a significant milestone year, with celebrations giving a nod to the event’s colourful past.

"This year's parade will celebrate 40 years of Derry Halloween by looking back at some of the unforgettable sights and sounds of the 1980s, with sections inspired by the fashion, music and atmosphere of that iconic decade,” he revealed.

Widely recognised as the centrepiece of the internationally acclaimed festival, the Carnival Parade will return to the city streets on Hallowe’en night, bringing together hundreds of performers, community groups, artists and musicians in a spectacular celebration marking four decades of Derry's world-famous festivities.

Members of Council’s Business and Culture Committee received an update on a number of appointments to the creative team from Council’s Head of Culture Jacqueline Whoriskey, with an investment of £255,610 from Council’s Animation Programme being channelled into creating enhanced opportunities for over 40 local organisations.

Investment in local creative talent has risen significantly for Derry Hallowe’en 2026, the Council said, delivering a 250 per cent increase in funding for local artists, rising from £10,000 in 2025 to £35,000 in 2026 - an additional £25,000 in funding. £196,810 (77 per cent) of the event’s total investment is being directed towards local artists, companies, creatives and musicians.

“Alongside the birthday celebrations, audiences can also expect to journey much further back in time, exploring the rich Celtic traditions of Samhain and encountering the shape-shifting creatures that feature in our myths and legends. This is such an important part of the festival, which has a strong focus on the folklore and traditions that have shaped our event today.

"We’ve had a fantastic response from groups keen to take part. We will welcome pipe bands, samba bands, Indian drumming bands, dance groups and community organisations travelling from across Derry and further afield - including Magherafelt and Falcarragh.

"As Artistic Director, one of my key priorities is also to increase the number of large-scale parade props, creating even more visual spectacle for audiences. It’s shaping up to be an unforgettable experience.”

Kevin previously served as Artistic Director of the Derry Hallowe’en Parade during the 2013 UK City of Culture year, which introduced a fully themed artistic approach to the event. Inishowen Carnival Group has also played an integral role in the parade over many years.

Ms. Whoriskey, said: "Derry Hallowe’en has evolved over four decades into one of the world's leading Hallowe’en festivals, attracting visitors from across Ireland and beyond while showcasing the creativity, talent and community spirit that defines the city and wider region.

"As we prepare to celebrate this important milestone, we are delighted to see such a strong response from local groups who are eager to play their part in the festivities.”