Ireland was promoted to around 70 top tour operators, travel agents and journalists from Germany and Belgium this week – as part of Tourism Ireland’s busy programme of promotions to highlight Halloween as an iconic reason to visit Ireland in autumn.

Nine tourism industry partners from Ireland took part in the events in Munich and Ghent.

Guests heard presentations on Púca and Derry Halloween and there were opportunities for networking – providing an excellent opportunity for the tourism companies from Ireland to promote their autumn offerings.

Guests in Munich enjoyed whiskey tasting from The Dublin Liberties Distillery, while those attending in Ghent enjoyed some traditional barmbrack. The Armagh Rhymers performed at both events.

Nadine Lehmann, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Germany, said: “Tourism Ireland was delighted that around 70 tour operators, travel agents and journalists have taken the time to come and meet with our partners from Ireland in Munich and Ghent this week, to find out more about our Halloween festivals and superb autumn offerings.

“Promoting off-season festivals and events like Halloween is a key element of Tourism Ireland’s strategy to spread the tourism season and attract potential visitors to come throughout the year. In the same way that St Patrick’s Day acts as an anchor for early spring visits, Halloween can provide an authentic ‘must visit’ reason to enjoy a trip to Ireland in mid-autumn.”