Magical Samhain
Magical Samhain is the festival where fantasy, history, and spectacle collide. In the atmospheric setting of Fortress Bourtange, you'll enjoy fire shows, impressive acts, and a unique atmosphere. For families, groups of friends, and fantasy enthusiasts, Magical Samhain is an experience you won't want to miss.
Entrance fees
Magical Samhain
Saturday
Adults (12+)
Voorverkoop
At the register
At the cash register (dressed up)
Fancy dress means at least 2 fancy dress items
Children (6 - 11 years)
Voorverkoop
At the register
At the cash register (dressed up)
Fancy dress means at least 2 fancy dress items
Sunday
From 6 years old
Voorverkoop
At the register
At the cash register (dressed up)
Fancy dress means at least 2 fancy dress items
Fantasy and magic
Welcome to a world full of ghosts, time travelers, pirates, and other extraordinary apparitions during Magical Samhain on October 31st and November 1st, 2026, at Fortress Bourtange. Enjoy performances by artists, fire shows, stilt walkers, and other magical creatures.
Samhain is one of the oldest festivals, celebrated for thousands of years. For the Celts, it also marked the beginning of the new year. The festival is associated with the changing of the seasons and the cycle of life. The sky is gray, the earth is brittle and cold, and the last crops have been harvested from the fields. Winter looms on the horizon. During this period, the earth can prepare for a new beginning. Samhain is the time to connect with the spirit world.
Join in and come to the fortress in costume and become one with the many magical creatures. Many visitors are decked out in beautiful depictions of fantasy, fairy tales, and anything else you can imagine. Come in costume and you'll receive a nice discount on the admission price on Saturday!
Throughout the fortress, various stalls offer unique merchandise. Always be on the lookout for encounters with someone from another time dimension. As darkness descends, the magical world draws ever closer.
Experience the magic of Samhain at Bourtange Fortress on October 31st and November 1st, 2026. Journey through the magical world, have your fortune told, or make a wish at the wishing tree.
Children from 0 to 5 years are free.
Parking is free.
Opening hours
Saturday
Sunday
Good to Know
Please do not bring your faithful four-legged friend to Magical Samhain: a festival full of magic and experiences, but think of your dog's well-being.
Vesting Bourtange is not liable if anything happens to your dog.
Want to become an exhibitor?
Interested in becoming an exhibitor at Fortress Bourtange? Get in touch with us.
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The origin of Magical Samhain
Magical Samhain originates from a Celtic festival that marked the transition from summer to winter. It was the moment when the world of the living and the spirits touched. In Bourtange Fortress, this centuries-old custom is given a modern twist. During Magical Samhain , you experience a mix of history, magic, and entertainment that enchants visitors time and again.
What makes Magical Samhain unique?
Unlike regular festivals, Magical Samhain is all about the total experience. As soon as you step inside the fortress, you enter another world. During the day, you see colorful costumes, magicians, and musicians parading through the streets. In the evening, the fortress transforms into a magical place filled with lights, fire, and spectacular shows.
The combination of history and fantasy makes Magical Samhain unique in the Netherlands. It is not just an event, but a festival that sets the entire fortress in motion.
Why Magical Samhain experience?
Magical Samhain is not just a festival. It is an experience where you become part of the magic yourself. That is why this event is unique:
- Fantasy festival full of fire shows, light and spectacle
- Atmospheric setting in Fortress Bourtange
- Visitors become part of the magic by dressing up
- Two days full of acts, music and surprises for young and old
What do our visitors say?
Experience the magic of acts and shows
Magical Samhain is known for its impressive programming. Think of stilt walkers, fire dancers, and international theater groups filling the streets of Bourtange with spectacle. During the day, there is plenty of entertainment for children, while the evening revolves around grand shows in an enchanting atmosphere.
New acts are added every year, ensuring that Magisch Samhain manages to surprise time and again. For visitors, it is a festival that guarantees quality, innovation, and magic.
Come dressed up and become part of Magical Samhain
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Magical Samhain is that visitors participate themselves. Many people come dressed as fairy tale characters, pirates, or fantasy heroes. Those who come in costume often even receive a discount on admission. This creates a colorful crowd and a unique atmosphere where everyone is part of the magic.
Whether you choose a full costume or a few creative accessories, joining in makes Magical Samhain extra fun and creates unforgettable memories.
Practical information for your visit
Magical Samhain takes place every year at the end of October. The festival lasts two days: Saturday from morning until late evening, and Sunday until the afternoon. Parking is free and there are various food and drink establishments within the fortress. Please note that dogs are not welcome during the event.
Tickets are available online in advance and often sell out quickly. So make sure you are quick to secure your entry to Magical Samhain.
Frequently asked questions
A fantasy festival in Fortress Bourtange full of shows, acts and magic, based on the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.
The festival is held annually in October, spread over two days.
It's not mandatory, but it is a lot of fun. Plus, dressing up often gets you a discount on the entrance fee.
Yes, there are many activities and shows during the day that are specifically aimed at families with children.
Yes, and that's recommended. The festival is popular, and tickets sell out quickly.
Experience it yourself Magical Samhain in Bourtange
Want to experience the magic of this unique festival? Be enchanted by the atmosphere, the acts, and the unique setting of Fortress Bourtange.