SAMHAIN — FOLLOW US INTO THE DARK

Follow us into the dark for a Samhain night of eerie vibes, autumn magic, and in-person mischief. Some things are better left buried. Naturally, we've invited them out for the evening. The nights are growing longer, the stories are getting stranger, and something appears to be stirring in Fernwood. On November 24, join us for Samhain: Follow Us Into the Dark, an evening of Irish folklore, theatrical storytelling, live performance, art, ancestral remembrance, and the peculiar things that happen when the boundaries between worlds become a little less reliable. Rooted in the Irish traditions of Samhain, the gathering marks the passage from harvest into winter: a time for coming together, remembering those who came before us, and making room for whatever the darkness might bring. Fernwood Square transforms into a free, immersive community celebration, alive with storytellers, musicians, roaming characters, interactive art, divination, and unexpected encounters. Wander between experiences, follow your curiosity, and take part in an evening that unfolds around you. For those feeling particularly adventurous, the wider celebration extends into separately ticketed theatrical experiences and additional paid activities in Paul Phillips Hall. You'll find opportunities to go a little further into the dark, should you be so inclined. And this is only the beginning. Samhain opens Into the Dark, a seasonal journey through Fernwood that continues with The 12 Strange Days—a neighbourhood trail of art, curious encounters, and collectable stamps—before culminating in the gloriously mischievous arrival of Krampus on December 6. The evening supports Let's Talk Access, a Victoria-based initiative working to make mental health care more understandable, accessible, and navigable through storytelling, community learning, and free public educational resources, in partnership with the Fernwood Community Arts Association. Come as you are. Bring your curiosity. Perhaps a story or two. The dark has been expecting you.