About this Event
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.
Agenda
7:00 PM — The Gathering Begins
Info: The Square welcomes its visitors. Step into the atmosphere of Samhain, encounter performers and artists, and begin exploring the evening's installations and activities.
Throughout the Evening — Stories from the Otherworld
Info: Irish folklore, oral storytelling, music, and theatrical encounters unfold across the celebration. Some stories are familiar. Others may have followed us home. Explore interactive art and mask-making, visit participating divination practitioners, and discover the creative experiences appearing around the Square. Some optional activities are by donation. Pause for remembrance, connect with community, and participate in experiences inspired by the changing season and the stories of those who came before us.
Separate Ticketed Programming — Go Deeper Into the Dark
Info: Two additional experiences are available through separate ticket purchases. Optional paid and donation-based activities will also take place in Paul Phillips Hall. Check individual listings for admission and scheduling.
11:00 PM — Until We Meet Again
Info: The evening draws to a close, but the story doesn't. Follow the strange into the 12 Strange Days, leading toward Krampus on December 6.
Event venue & nearby stays
Fernwood, 1921 fernwood ave, Victoria, Canada
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