Family Events

For a day out with the whole family, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion offers a busy calendar of events to suit all ages. On major holidays, our towns and villages are hubs of activity and fun for parents and children alike.

The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion’s events are tailormade to suit all kinds of families. Whether you have toddlers or teens, our mission is to create family memories which will last for years to come.

March

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

These days, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated all around the globe. But why not honour Ireland’s most famous son in the land where he spent most of his life? Every March, Newry and Downpatrick each host annual St. Patrick’s Day events which rival celebrations anywhere else in the world.

Each year, a carnival-style parade makes its way through Newry city centre, welcoming revellers from across Ireland and further afield. Young guests won’t want to leave the family fun activities on Hill Street. For a different twist on St. Patrick’s Day, head to Downpatrick. Here, the parade is normally led by a motorcade of classic cars and motorcycles. Between Down Arts Centre and the Down County Museum, there’s a busy day of events, drawing thousands of visitors. Kids can also try their hand at Irish dancing or a range of traditional arts and crafts, all under the supervision of expert guides. What better way to remember your St. Patrick’s Day experience than a souvenir you made with your own hands? Both events have a mixture of traditional, classical and pop music, so even families with diverging tastes will feel completely at home.

May

Annual International Guinness Blues on the Bay Festival

Picturesque Warrenpoint is once again set to play host to some of the world's leading blues and jazz performers who are heading to the County Down town for the much awaited 25th International Guinness® Blues on the Bay Festival in 2024 (to be confirmed).

June

Patrick and The Pagan Hills

Walk to the place that Saint Patrick landed on Strangford Lough and follow in the footsteps of both saint and pagan to explore the landscape that Patrick himself encountered when he returned to Ireland nearly 1600 years ago.

July

Castlewellan Agricultural Show

Fun for all the family with crafts, livestock, vintage tea and artisan food. Try Archery, enjoy vintage tea while watching the showjumping or the prizewinning cattle parade. Traditional industries - Wool Spinning, Stick carving demonstrations, butter making there is so so much to see and do at Castlewellan Agricultural Show.

August

Strangford Lough Watersports Festival: SkiffieFest

SkiffieFest - the Strangford Lough Water Sports Festival (date yet to be confirmed for 2024)

This popular event will include a two day St. Ayles Skiff Regatta with teams from across Northern Ireland competing over the 2km course, as well as international competitors. Organised by Down Coastal Rowing Association in association with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

Giant Adventure: Wake the Giant Festival

Kicking of the Visit Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion programme of Giant Events is the annual Wake the Giant Festival, the perfect reason to visit the charming town of Warrenpoint! Nestled on the picturesque shores of Carlingford Lough, Warrenpoint is a town steeped in history and culture, and the annual Wake the Giant Festival is the perfect opportunity to experience it all.

This unique vibrant festival celebrates the town's unique heritage and legends, and offers visitors a weekend a full array of exciting events and activities. From live music and performances, to Giants food feast and children’s activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. (2024, to be confirmed).

September

Giant Adventure: Eats and Beats Festival

'Eats and Beats Festival in Newcastle, County Down as part of the Visit Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion Giant Adventures programme.

The Eats and Beats Festival is a celebration of food and music that brings together the best of both worlds. From delicious local cuisine to live performances by some of the hottest acts around, this festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves great food and great music. (2024, to be confirmed).

October

Giant Adventure: Footsteps in the Forest

Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween event this year at Slieve Gullion Forest Park! This is the perfect opportunity to experience the park's hauntingly beautiful landscape while enjoying some festive Halloween fun. The final part of the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion programme of Giant Events for 2023 and is set to take place from Wednesday 25 to Monday 30 October 2023. We can't wait to scare up some fun with you! Click here for full details.

All year round Family Events

Meet the friendly Cranfield Alpacas

Enjoy walking your alpaca along country lanes and along our beautiful beach, then meet the rest of the gang, feed them and enjoy some refreshments while taking in the stunning panoramic views of Carlingford Lough and the Mournes.

May - June: Alpaca Beach Treks

A 60 minute Alpaca field walks is absolutely perfect for families with children of all ages. Take one of the gorgeous Alpacas for a walk around the paddocks and the field with stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and Carlingford Lough.

July - Sept: Cranfield Alpacas Field Walks