The magic of Carnfunnock Country Park is about to be revealed to visitors and help to chase away the autumnal darkness.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Halloween event was recently launched by the Mayor, Councillor Billy Ashe, who said: “The Enchanted Twilight Garden will offer a magical feast for the senses and for all ages.

“I would encourage everyone to come along and enjoy the free entertainment at Carnfunnock on Saturday 31st October 2015.”

On All Hallows Eve, when darkness falls and the stars begin to glitter, the secrets of Carnfunnock will be revealed beyond the Walled Garden ancient boundaries.

The event aims to guide visitors through a ‘secret parting of the hedge’ into a magical ‘other world’ that can only be seen at twilight.

Visitors can meet the 1,000 year-old ‘Oracle of the Gates’ at his desk where names will be checked and logged in the legendary ‘Book of Imagination’ and after receiving a special enchanted gift, a journey of exploration into a realm of magic can begin.

Those attending will walk illuminated pathways and encounter a world of fairies, pixies, trolls, goblins and other enchanted creatures.

Ethereal music will fill the air as they explore Carnfunnock at twilight amongst the twinkling trees and glowing laneways.

There will also be a chance to hone archery skills just like heroes of old, listen to stories, watch the owls, create some art and of course an opportunity to enter the annual pumpkin competition.

For any little witches, wizards, pixies and trolls, the eyes of the enchanted garden will be searching the park for magically attired individuals and awarding them with a prize.

The Enchanted Twilight Garden has been organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and sponsored by Translink and Caterpillar, Northern Ireland. Premiere Circus and Lighting Artist Walter Holt will be creating ‘The Enchanted Twilight Garden’.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has expressed sincere thanks to Translink and Caterpillar, Northern Ireland for their kind sponsorship of this year’s event.

Translink Service Delivery Manager Martin Lundy said: “We are pleased to support Mid and East Antrim Borough Council by providing a hassle-free shuttle service to bring visitors to this fantastic family event.

“This Halloween we are also encouraging people to take advantage of our special tickets available from October 24–November 8 such as the Translink Family & Friends Ticket and Bus Rambler Ticket.

“We are also holding a Translink Goldline Roadshow in Larne Main Street at bus stop outside Dunnes Stores on Saturday 31st October, 11 – 3pm.

“This special event will highlight the direct, frequent and great value Goldline coach services available with Smartlink journey savings of over 30% compared to cash fares as well as a third-off day return tickets after 9.30am.

“We look forward to welcoming more people on board our services to enjoy fun Autumnal days out exploring Northern Ireland,” he said.

Robert Kennedy, Caterpillar Northern Ireland’s Operations Director, commented: “We know from our own employees that local people have a special affection for the Halloween activities at Carnfunnock, and we congratulate the council on another creative and impressive-sounding programme.

“I have no doubt it will prove popular again this year and we are very pleased to get behind it.”

The event will run from 5pm-8pm and it will take approximately 30-45 minutes to tour the garden.

Last admission to the gardens and maze will be at 7.30pm. The garden will be accessible from the lower car park gate.

Admission to the event is free; however car parking charges within Carnfunnock will apply. Parking within Carnfunnock Country Park is limited.

A free bus service will be provided from a temporary Park and Ride at Caterpillar Northern Ireland (Old Glenarm Road) car park, Larne Town Centre and Ballygally.

Car parking will also be available at Drains Bay Car Park and Carnfunnock Bay Car Park. Visitors choosing to walk into the park from Drains Bay Car Park or Carnfunnock Bay Car Park should use the paths provided and bring a torch.

Disabled access is through the lower car park gate entrance.  The exit point will be at the Home Farm Lane gate or the lower car park gate. The Maze will only be accessible via the Walled Garden.