Giant Adventures Await in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion
The Giant Adventures Series is back for 2025, bringing an exciting lineup of immersive tourism events to Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. Designed to captivate both visitors and locals, this trio of unforgettable experiences celebrates the region’s rich mythology, music, food and breathtaking landscapes.
The 2025 series kicks off with Wake the Giant on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June in Warrenpoint, before moving to Eats and Beats in Newcastle on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, and concluding with the mystical Footsteps in the Forest in Slieve Gullion Forest Park from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October.
Launching this year’s Giant Adventure festivals, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Pete Byrne said, "The Giant Adventures series is more than just a collection of events — it is a heartfelt celebration of our region’s rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes and the warmth of our vibrant communities. From the rugged beauty of the Mourne Mountains to the serene shores of Carlingford Lough, every experience is designed to captivate, inspire and create lasting memories.
“The Council remains committed to sustainable tourism and will ensure that each event is delivered in line with the Geopark Code of Practice — promoting responsible engagement with local communities, businesses and the environment while preserving the region’s unique character for generations to come.
“We invite everyone, from near and far to join us in embracing the magic, adventure and unforgettable moments that define Newry, Mourne and Down as a truly special place to explore, connect and celebrate together."
From legendary giants to flavoursome feasts and enchanting forests, this year’s Giant Adventures promises a unique blend of spectacle, storytelling and sensory delights, set against some of Ireland’s most stunning natural backdrops.
The journey for 2025 begins with Wake the Giant on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June in Warrenpoint. The legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill comes to life once again as the giant spirit of Warrenpoint awakens. This year, Fionn won’t stand alone — he will be joined by a spectacular Gathering of the Clans. Giants from near and far will come to celebrate heritage, culture and the power of storytelling, making this year’s festival an unforgettable display of myth, music and magic.
With family-friendly activities, green crafts, wellness experiences and a packed festival atmosphere, Wake the Giant is the perfect summer celebration in the heart of Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion.
Following this, the highly anticipated Eats and Beats festival returns to Newcastle, Co Down, on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, promising an unmissable weekend of incredible flavours and unforgettable music.
This vibrant festival at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, will feature two dynamic stages showcasing an eclectic mix of local and international artists, providing the perfect soundtrack to a celebration of the region’s rich food culture. Visitors can savour the finest locally sourced food, experience live cookery demonstrations and indulge in a diverse selection of artisan produce. From the freshest coastal flavours to hearty mountain-inspired dishes, Eats and Beats is a feast for the senses, blending taste, sound and culture in one spectacular setting.
As the nights grow darker, the mystical woods of Slieve Gullion Forest Park will come alive with eerie encounters, spellbinding storytelling and otherworldly wonders. Footsteps in the Forest returns to the Forest from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October and is the perfect way to celebrate autumn magic in one of Ireland’s most mythical landscapes. This extended Halloween festival will immerse visitors in the ancient traditions of Samhain, blending legend, folklore and theatrical performances in a hauntingly beautiful setting.
With three unmissable events spread across the summer and autumn of 2025, now is the time to mark your calendar and start planning your Giant Adventure in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.
For event details or ideas of where to stay, eat and more things to do in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion, visit: www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/giant-adventures