Tickets Now On Sale for Eats & Beats Festival Returning to Newcastle This September

Visitors and residents are being encouraged to plan their September escape as tickets for the popular Eats & Beats Festival are now on sale.

Returning to Donard Park, Newcastle, Co Down on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, Eats & Beats promises a vibrant weekend of live music, local food, family entertainment and unforgettable experiences set against the spectacular backdrop of the Mourne Mountains.

Now in its fifth year, the festival has become one of the highlights of the events calendar in Mourne Gullion Strangford, attracting thousands of visitors and showcasing the very best of the region's food, hospitality, culture and natural beauty.

This year's event will feature 24+ local, national and international music acts across two live performance stages, delivering a diverse programme of entertainment throughout the weekend.

On the Homegrown Stage, Saturday's programme will feature performances from chart-topping pop favourites D:Ream, legendary guitarist Eric Bell & When Ireland Rocked, Anna's Number and a range of emerging local artists. Sunday's line-up will include Matt Benson, The Outcasts, Tribal Ting, Vera and further homegrown talent, celebrating the strength and diversity of the local music scene.

The World Stage will once again bring a vibrant mix of global sounds and cultural influences to Newcastle. Saturday's programme will feature performances from The Skallions, Wilson Magwere, Uplifted Gospel Choir and The Backbone Blues Band, while Sunday audiences can enjoy Baile na Salsa, Havana Roots, Indigo Soul Band and Newcastle Junior Glees.

Together, the programme promises an unforgettable weekend of live entertainment, spanning pop, rock, blues, ska, gospel and world music. With a strong focus on both homegrown talent and international influences, Eats & Beats offers something for every musical taste and generation. Further artist announcements will be revealed in the lead-up to the festival, adding even more excitement to this year's line-up.

Food lovers can look forward to an extensive programme of culinary experiences, with more than 24 food vendors and 18 regional food producers showcasing the very best local flavours and produce.

Live cookery demonstrations will take place throughout the weekend, hosted by renowned chef Paul Cunningham. Joining Paul on Saturday will be television chef and food writer Jenny Bristow, while Sunday's programme will feature Suzie Lee and Paula McIntyre, offering visitors plenty of inspiration, entertainment and opportunities to discover the stories behind local food and drink.

Visitors can also enjoy a range of family-friendly attractions throughout the weekend, including the Curious Minds Experience and dedicated Kids Zone, ensuring there is something for all ages to enjoy.

Beyond the festival itself, Eats & Beats provides the perfect opportunity for both residents and visitors to experience Mourne Gullion Strangford. Whether exploring the Mourne Mountains, enjoying coastal walks, discovering local food and drink experiences or relaxing in the area's welcoming accommodation providers, visitors are encouraged to make a weekend of their visit and immerse themselves in one of Ireland's most spectacular destinations.

With its unique combination of live music, local flavours and breathtaking scenery, Eats & Beats offers more than just a festival experience. It is an opportunity to slow down, explore more and discover the landscapes, people and experiences that make Mourne Gullion Strangford such a distinctive place to visit.

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Councillor Glyn Hanna, said, "Eats & Beats has become one of the standout events in our annual programme and continues to attract visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond. The festival not only celebrates great food, music and family experiences, but also provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase Mourne Gullion Strangford as a destination.

"We encourage residents and visitors alike to come along, enjoy the festival and take the time to explore everything the region has to offer. Events like Eats & Beats play an important role in showcasing Mourne Gullion Strangford to new audiences while giving local people the opportunity to celebrate the food, music and hospitality that make the region unique.

"The festival encourages visitors to stay longer, explore more of the destination and support local businesses. By combining great food, live entertainment and spectacular scenery, Eats & Beats highlights everything that makes Mourne Gullion Strangford such a distinctive place to visit and experience Ireland's True Nature."

To support the continued success of the festival and enhance the overall visitor experience, a small admission fee has been introduced this year. This will help ensure the event can continue to grow while maintaining its high-quality programme and safe, welcoming environment.

Daily tickets are priced at £5, with children aged four and under admitted free. Family ticket options will also be available, offering added value for those attending together. A range of ticket options is available to suit individuals, families and weekend visitors.

Tickets for Eats & Beats are now on sale and can be purchased via the Council's Box Office at: www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/whats-on/giant-adventures/eats-and-beats

For more information and to plan your September escape, visit www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com