Thousands Gather in Warrenpoint as Wake the Giant Launches New Giant's Trail
Thousands of visitors descended on Warrenpoint, Co Down over the weekend as Wake the Giant returned on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August, transforming the town into a spectacular celebration of folklore, creativity and giant-sized adventure.
The opening event in the Giant Adventures 2026 programme captivated visitors of all ages, with the legendary Fionn mac Cumhaill leading two spectacular Giant's Parades through the streets of Warrenpoint as crowds lined the route to experience one of Northern Ireland's most distinctive festival spectacles.
A major highlight of this year's festival was the launch of the new Giant's Trail, inviting visitors to follow the Giant's footsteps through Warrenpoint while discovering giant sculptures and larger-than-life surprises throughout the town. The exciting new addition encouraged families to explore Warrenpoint in a completely new way and proved hugely popular across the festival weekend.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna, said, "Wake the Giant continues to grow year after year and it was fantastic to see Warrenpoint come alive once again with thousands of visitors enjoying everything the festival had to offer. The introduction of the Giant's Trail added an exciting new dimension to the event, encouraging visitors to explore the town while celebrating the legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill in a unique and engaging way.
"Events like Wake the Giant play an important role in showcasing Mourne Gullion Strangford as a leading visitor destination, supporting our local businesses and hospitality sector while creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike."
Across both days, the festival delivered a packed programme of family entertainment. Visitors explored The Land of Giants, discovered the Giant Food Village and Giant Food Trail, enjoyed the ever-popular Giant Funfair, took part in Green Craft Workshops, and experienced the dedicated Sensory Hub, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive festival for all.
The festival atmosphere was brought to life with an outstanding programme of live music at Warrenpoint Municipal Park.
Families also enjoyed the lively Family Disco before gathering at Giant's Plaza to welcome Fionn mac Cumhaill ahead of Sunday's spectacular Giant's Parade, providing a memorable finale to another successful festival weekend.
Food remained at the heart of Wake the Giant, with local cafés, restaurants, artisan producers and traders helping to create a vibrant atmosphere throughout Warrenpoint while showcasing the best of the region's food and drink offering.
Wake the Giant once again demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and community through initiatives including the annual Beach Clean and Green Craft Workshops, ensuring the festival leaves a positive legacy long after Fionn has departed.
As Fionn mac Cumhaill leaves Warrenpoint for another year, attention now turns to the next event in the Giant Adventures 2026 programme. Eats & Beats returns to Donard Park, Newcastle, on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, bringing together more than 24 live music acts, over 24 food vendors, artisan producers, live cookery demonstrations and family entertainment in a celebration of Northern Ireland's outstanding food, music and hospitality.
For more information on Eats & Beats and the full Giant Adventures 2026 programme, visit www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com.
