GAA-mad children from Athlone and the wider Midlands region can learn more about Ireland’s ancient sport from the time of Setanta right up to the era of Cian Lynch!
As the ancient Irish festival of Samhain draws near, the GAA Museum at Croke Park invites families to celebrate with a unique twist on Halloween at their much-anticipated “Hurloween” Tours.
Swop ghouls for goals and embark on a journey of old Celtic traditions, mythology and sporting legends to celebrate Ireland’s earliest festival. GAA-mad kids can learn about Ireland’s ancient sport from the time of Setanta right up to the era of Cian Lynch!
This year’s Hurloween Tours, which run from October 28-November 1, promise an extraordinary experience for families seeking seasonal fun rather than scares and are perfect for children aged between five and twelve, accompanied by an adult.
One highlight of the tour is the “Warriors and Hurlers Workshop,” where young visitors will learn about Setanta, the master hurler who, according to legend, used his sliotar and camán to slay the hound of Chulainn, earning the new name Cú Chulainn. Each child on the tour will receive a book recounting the tale of Setanta and other Irish legends—a perfect Halloween treat!
The Hurloween Tour also includes a visit some of the famous sporting venue’s best haunts including the players dressing rooms, the interactive games zone where you can test your own hurling and football skills and learn new ‘tricks’, and an exciting opportunity to walk pitch side where the spirited guides will teach you more about the history and skills of Ireland’s national games of football, hurling and camogie.
The GAA Museum and Stadium Tour are fully accessible for people with disabilities. On-site amenities include toilet facilities and baby changing stations. If your little ones get hungry, the Blackthorn Café is open daily, serving hot lunches, sandwiches, pastries, snacks, and more. Outdoor picnic table seating is also available for those who prefer to bring their own snacks. Plus, there’s free on-site parking adjacent to the GAA Museum in the Cusack Stand Car Park.
Tours take place at 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm from Saturday, October 28 to Wednesday, November 1. Tickets must be booked in advance online and the visit will last approximately 90 minutes.
While dressing up isn’t required, costumes are more than welcome. Photography is allowed, so capture those unforgettable family memories of your first “Hurloween”!
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate Halloween in a truly unique way. Book your tickets in advance online at crokepark.ie/halloween to secure your spot on the “Hurloween” Tours at the GAA Museum.
