Giant Adventures Await in Mourne Gullion Strangford

The Giant Adventures Series is back for 2026, bringing an exciting lineup of immersive tourism events to Mourne Gullion Strangford. Designed to captivate both visitors and locals, this trio of unforgettable experiences celebrates the region’s rich mythology, music, food and breathtaking landscapes.

 

The 2026 series kicks off with Wake the Giant on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August in Warrenpoint, before moving to Eats and Beats in Newcastle on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, and concluding with the mystical Footsteps in the Forest in Slieve Gullion Forest Park from Wednesday 21 to Tuesday 27 October.

 

Launching this year’s Giant Adventures event series, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, " The Giant Adventures series is a celebration of everything that makes Mourne Gullion Strangford such a special place to visit and to call home. As more people choose to holiday closer to home, experiences like these offer the perfect opportunity to reconnect with our landscapes, our stories and our communities.

 

“From the mountains to the coast, each event invites visitors to slow down, explore more deeply and enjoy authentic, high-quality experiences right on their doorstep.

The Council remains committed to sustainable tourism and will ensure that each event is delivered in line with the Geopark Code of Practice supporting local businesses, engaging our communities and protecting the natural environment that makes this region so unique.

 

“We warmly invite everyone to be part of the Giant Adventures in 2026 and discover the magic, creativity and sense of belonging that define our destination."

 

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 2026 begins with Wake the Giant on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August in Warrenpoint. The legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill comes to life once again as the giant spirit of Warrenpoint awakens. New for this year, The Giant’s Trail invites visitors to step into a walkable, story-led world, where giant-themed installations and interactive experiences bring folklore, culture and performance to life across the town.

 

With family-friendly activities, green crafts, food and a packed festival atmosphere, Wake the Giant is the perfect summer celebration in the heart of Mourne Gullion Strangford.

 

Following this, the highly anticipated Eats and Beats festival returns to Newcastle, Co Down, on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, promising an unmissable weekend of incredible flavours and unforgettable music.

 

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, this vibrant festival 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, enjoy live cookery demonstrations and explore a diverse selection of artisan produce. From fresh coastal flavours to hearty mountain-inspired dishes, Eats and Beats is a true feast for the senses.

 

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, running from Wednesday 21 to Tuesday 27 October, is the perfect way to celebrate autumn magic in one of Ireland’s most mythical landscapes. This extended Halloween festival immerses visitors in the ancient traditions of Samhain, blending legend, folklore and theatrical performances in a hauntingly beautiful setting.

 

With three unmissable events across summer and autumn 2026, now is the time to mark your calendar and start planning your Giant Adventure in Mourne Gullion Strangford.

 

For event details and inspiration on where to stay, eat and explore, go to www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/giantadventures.