There’s nothing quite like the vibe.

If you’ve ever spent Halloween night in the Rebel County, you know the magic hits a little differently up around Shandon.

This year, Cork’s favourite spooky tradition is marking a huge milestone: the iconic Dragon of Shandon is officially celebrating its 20th anniversary.

To kick off the celebrations early, the folks at Cork Community Art Link gathered at St. Peter’s Cork to blow out the candles with the army of volunteers, artists, and local legends who have kept this 36-foot giant roaring since it first took over the streets back in 2006.

And if you thought they’d rest on their laurels for year twenty, think again.

On Samhain night (Saturday, October 31st), the legendary dragon – meticulously hand-crafted entirely out of tape – will emerge from its secret lair beneath the city to prowl through the historic northside. It won’t be flying solo, either. The giant beast will be leading a massive, spooky procession of skeletons, ghouls, and fantastical creatures brought to life in partnership with amazing local groups including the Cope Foundation, Corlann Blackpool, L’Arche, Enable Ireland, and the National Learning Network.

The night promises a dazzling lineup of floats, props, and wild live performances.

We’re talking mind-bending fire tricks from Rogu, live beats from the Cork School of Music, and full-blown brass energy courtesy of French Big Band Santa Machete. Plus, local favourites like the Kabin Crew, Tribe Dance Academy, Mexicans in Cork, and the Bolivian Irish Community Integration Association will be keeping the energy electric all night long.

Want to catch the spectacle? Make sure to throw on your best Halloween costumes and face paint to get into the full Samhain spirit.

The parade will kick off from Church Street, winding its way down Shandon Street, onto North Main Street, taking a left onto Castle Street, before wrapping up with a massive finale at the Coal Quay.

Gather the crew, wrap up warm, and get ready to celebrate two decades of Cork’s favourite Halloween icon.