Celebrating Community, Culture and Creativity at Slieve Gullion Forest Park

Families from across the district gathered at Slieve Gullion Forest Park recently to enjoy Forest Feasts and Woodland Beats, a vibrant community cultural celebration organised by the Slieve Gullion District Electoral Area (DEA) Forum in partnership with Clanrye Group.

The free family fun event transformed the picturesque forest and courtyard into a lively hub of music, dance, art and food, showcasing the rich diversity of cultures within the community.

Visitors enjoyed a bustling food village featuring a range of international cuisines, with the cultural celebration including an interactive art area where children and adults took part in Chinese origami, Thai painting and create mini beasts using natural materials gathered from woodland.

Entertainment included face painting, Henna body art and captivating magician performances, with the amphitheatre providing a spectacular backdrop for a programme of cultural performances, including a Chinese Fan Dance, Indian Dance, African Drumming and traditional Irish Music, celebrating the diversity and heritage of communities across the area. 

A sensory support area ensured the cultural celebration was inclusive for all, with the event securing financial support from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Southern Health and Social Care Trust’s multidisciplinary team at Meigh Surgery and Arbour Housing.

Slieve Gullion DEA Forum Chairperson, Councillor Aine Quinn said, "Forest Feasts and Woodland Beats was a wonderful opportunity to bring people together through shared experiences of food, music, art and culture. The event highlighted the diversity that enriches our communities while providing a fun and welcoming day out for families in the beautiful surroundings of Slieve Gullion Forest Park."

Claire Convery, the Clanrye group’s Head of Community Partnerships and Integration said, "We were delighted to support this event at Slieve Gullion Courtyard and Gardens. It gave us a great opportunity to share our annual community programme with Safefood Ireland, focusing on cooking on a budget."

Event organisers wish to thank all performers, activity providers, funders, volunteers and attendees who contributed to the success of the event and helped create a memorable celebration of culture, community and connection.