Paisley Abbey illuminated at Paisley Halloween Festival 2022. Photograph (c) Stuart White

Paisley Halloween Festival will return in October 2023, with electrifying live performances and installations for all the family. 

Recognised by VisitScotland as one of the best free family festivals in the UK, Paisley Halloween Festival is an award-winning event that you will not want to miss.

Each year we work hard to bring you something you haven’t seen before. In 2022 we took to the rooftops with ‘Heroes, Myths and Legends’. One-eyed monsters invaded the town hall. Giant spiders were seen roaming the streets. And steampunk dragons breathed fire into the skies. Above all, this event pushes the boundaries of what you would expect from a Halloween event.

Our local communities are at the heart of all ours event and we work closely with Renfrewshire groups to co-produce elements of the festival. Whether helping to craft creative installations, feeding into our Events Youth Panel, or volunteering on the day. Our diverse community voices are part of what makes the festival so unique.

In 2021 we went ‘Out of this World’. Aliens, fallen stars, spacecrafts and floating moons took over the town and the spires of Paisley Town Hall played host to an enormous lazer show. In addition, a selection of international artists displayed installations throughout Paisley Abbey Gardens.

The festival is produced by Renfrewshire Council’s award-winning Events Team, who are driven to create meaningful and exciting in-person experiences. The team work with international producers, directors and artists to bring the event to life. And because we know how important the festival is for Renfrewshire, we also work with local suppliers and performers as much as possible.

We can’t give too much away about this years’ event. However, with incredible live performances, and lots of spooky vibes, you won’t want to miss one of Scotland’s best events.

Stay tuned for updates on the 2023 festival. It’s going to be spook-tacular!

Volunteer with us

We are looking for volunteers to help make the festival bigger and better than ever. If you love Paisley, are passionate about events, or just want to help create unforgettable experiances, we want to hear from you.

We have a range of opportunities available across all aspects of the event. We’ll try to match you into a role that’s perfect for you. And you’ll be given training and support. Event volunteers are instrumental in making memorable moments for our visitors.

Find out more about volunteering at major events.