Hundreds gathered for a hoax Halloween parade in Dublin, on O’Connell street last night.
Following a fake Halloween parade on Thursday night, which drew huge crowds to Dublin’s O’Connell Street, the Gardaí have made a public plea.
Videos on TikTok publicising the event received thousands of views, and rumours went viral that a parade would take place on the city’s major street on Halloween night from 7 to 9 p.m.
A website claiming to be operated by the event’s organisers—now thought to have been a sophisticated prank—stated that the parade would start in Parnell Square and travel to Christchurch Cathedral.
On Thursday night, hundreds of people lined O’Connell Street in anticipation of the fake event, according to social media photos and videos.
However, Gardaí have since confirmed no event was organised or planned.
Garda spokesperson said on Thursday night: “Please be advised that contrary to information being circulated online, no Halloween parade is scheduled to take place in Dublin City Centre this evening or tonight. All those gathered on O’Connell Street in expectation of such a parade are asked to disperse safely.”
“Should you need our help or assistance, we are out on the beat along O’Connell Street and surrounding areas throughout this evening and tonight – please do not hesitate to stop and speak with us.”
Eyewitness’ told Dublin Live: “The bus drivers were going crazy with all the people on the road.”
“The Gardai announced there was no Halloween parade. There were people everywhere, and the bus and tram drivers were going mad honking non stop so they could pass.”
A sizable crowd is shown in footage from O’Connell Street, with buses attempting to pass through.