Drogheda is set to shine brighter than ever this Bank Holiday weekend as the Lú Festival of Light 2025 transforms the town into a live theatre of light, sound and storytelling.
Running from Friday, 24 October to Bank Holiday Monday, 27 October, the festival is expected to attract around 40,000 visitors, bringing new life to Drogheda’s streets and landmarks through dazzling light shows inspired by Ireland’s mythological past.
The festival opens with the much-loved Drogheda Credit Union Spooks Parade, weaving through the town before the main events begin across multiple sites. Highlights include the transformation of the Dominican Church into a vibrant market space ahead of its renovation into a new library, and nightly Street Parties featuring Drogheda Groove Movement and Showaddywaddy at the TLT.
A key part of Drogheda’s Nighttime Economy Strategy, the festival features four shows per hour from 7–9.30pm daily across key heritage sites including St Peter’s Church, Laurence’s Gate, and The Old Abbey.
Mayor of Drogheda, Cllr Michelle Hall, said the festival captures the spirit of Drogheda as a town rich in heritage and imagination. “This October, Drogheda will once again shine as the heart of Ireland’s storytelling tradition. From the legends of Cú Chulainn to the magic of the Morrigan, our streets will come alive with light, sound and myth. I invite everyone to experience the wonder, walk the illuminated trail, and be part of something truly unforgettable.”
Trevor Connolly, Chief Executive of Love Drogheda BID, said the festival is now recognised as one of Ireland’s leading creative showcases. “This festival is more than just light — it’s storytelling using our built heritage as a canvas to tell the stories of our heroes and heroines of Ireland’s Ancient East. We are proud to be home to Ireland’s best urban animation festival and one that should not be missed.”
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said the event continues to have a major impact on the local economy. “Each year the Lú Festival of Light brings thousands of visitors to Drogheda, energising our local economy, supporting businesses, and showcasing the town as a vibrant cultural destination. Its impact is felt long after the lights dim, and we are proud to support an initiative that continues to illuminate the heart of Louth.”
Now in its fourth year, the Lú Festival has become a highlight of the national Home of Halloween programme, blending technology, creativity and heritage in a uniquely Drogheda way.
This year’s festival will bring to life the legendary tales of Cú Chulainn and Ferdia, The Morrigan, and Queen Maeve’s Táin march, alongside a special tribute to the remarkable people and achievements of Drogheda. Through breathtaking projections, immersive installations and interactive performances, the town will become a glowing canvas of story and spectacle.
The Abbey will serve as a portal telling the tale of The Morrigan — Goddess of War, fate and fury — while Laurence’s Gate will frame the epic duel between Cú Chulainn and Ferdia, symbolising the battle between war and peace.
The Lú Festival of Light is delivered in partnership by Love Drogheda Business Improvement District (BID), produced by Visual Spectrum, and proudly funded by Louth County Council, Love Drogheda BID, Drogheda Councillors, and Fáilte Ireland.
For more information, event schedules and updates, visit www.lufestivaloflight.com.
