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Following the success of our inaugural Festival of Darkness: Dracula in 2022, we are delighted to bring Festival of Darkness: Witches to the magnificent surroundings of Haddo House. Through film, conversation and shared experiences, we’ll explore fear, folklore, persecution and resilience, reflecting on the lives of those accused of witchcraft while celebrating stories that continue to captivate and challenge us today.

The full programme will emerge from the darkness soon. For now, we invite you to explore this first glimpse of the films that will shape the festival:

Witches

Saturday 24 October 2026 @ 2:30pm

Venue: Library

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 1 hr 30 minutes

Year: 2024

A striking documentary exploring the history, legacy and modern relevance of witchcraft. Blending personal stories, historical insight and contemporary perspectives, Witches examines how fear, power and persecution have shaped the lives of those accused of witchcraft, while considering what the figure of the witch means today.

Further information about the post-screening panel discussion and panel members will be announced soon.

Häxan: The Esoteric Cut

Saturday 24 October 2026 @ 7:30pm

Pre-screening Talk @ 6:45pm

Venue: Hall

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 1 hr 25 minutes

Year: 1922 (2022)

A unique reimagining of Benjamin Christensen’s legendary silent film, Häxan: The Esoteric Cut explores witchcraft, superstition and the European witch trials through some of cinema’s most striking and imaginative imagery. This specially edited version, accompanied by a live performance of a new score by Neil Birse and Matthew Kilner, commissioned by Haddo Arts, brings fresh energy and contemporary resonance to a landmark work that continues to challenge our understanding of fear, belief and persecution..

Further details about the pre-screening talk and guest speaker will be announced soon.

The Secret of Kells

Sunday 25 October 2026 @ 1:30pm

Venue: Hall

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 1 hr 15 minutes

Year: 2009

A beautifully animated adventure inspired by Irish mythology, folklore and the history of the Book of Kells. Rich in imagination and stunning visual design, The Secret of Kells follows a young boy’s journey of creativity, courage and discovery as he helps complete a magical illuminated manuscript in a world threatened by darkness.

Following the screening, families are invited to stay for a special post-screening activity inspired by the film.

Further details of the activity will be announced soon.

She Will

Sunday 25 October 2026 @ 7:00pm

Venue: Library

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 1 hr 35 minutes

Year: 2021

After a life-changing operation, an ageing film star retreats to the Scottish Highlands to recover. As unsettling visions begin to blur the line between past and present, She Will becomes a haunting exploration of trauma, power, revenge and the enduring legacy of the witch.

Further details about the pre-screening talk and guest speaker will be announced soon.

Tickets go on sale Friday 4 September 2026 @ 2:00pm

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Festival of Darkness: Witches has been made possible through generous financial support from our funders. Their commitment and investment play a vital role in bringing this unique festival to life.

This festival is the result of a shared effort between our partners, who have come together to create a unique programme of film, discussion and discovery at Haddo House: