Giant Adventures

We might be a small part of the world, but we know how to throw giant events. Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has so many festivals and celebrations you will be spoilt for choice.

Giants play a role throughout Irish mythology, and this area hosts some of the most important locations from the tale of Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the most famous giant of them all. Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is home to a giant spirit, and our varied calendar of festivals and events are no different.

First up, Fionn Mac Cumhaill!

The journey for 2023 began on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August with Wake the Giant in Warrenpoint, where visitors witnessed the legendary giant Fionn mac Cumhaill rising from the depths of Carlingford Lough. Bringing to life the area's folklore and traditions, and inspired by the ancient myth of the sleeping giant in the Cooley Mountains, we stirred the giant from his slumber. Fionn overlooked a weekend of music and storytelling amidst a bustling festival atmosphere and sunshine.

Eats and Beats in Newcastle, County Down

Next up was the highly anticipated Eats and Beats festival in Newcastle, County Down. And following its successful launch in 2022 the festival was of gastronomic indulgence and entertainment not to be missed. On Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September 2023, food enthusiasts and music lovers came together under the gorgeous summer sunshine to celebrate the the area's culinary delights. Sampling the finest local produce from an array of food stalls, while talented artists created an electric atmosphere with live music performances. A fun-filled weekend that combined great food, fantastic music, and beautiful scenery; a weekend not to be missed.

Footsteps in the Forest

As the autumn leaves began to fall, the series took a mystical turn with the Footsteps in the Forest event in Slieve Gullion Forest Park. We stepped into the atmosphere of the ancient forest from Wednesday 25 to Monday 30 October 2023, where families and thrill-seekers encountered enchanting characters, spine-tingling surprises, and immersive storytelling. This magical annual Giant Adventure took place at one of Ireland’s premier visitor attractions, Slieve Gullion Forest Park in the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in County Armagh.

Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark

We are especially proud this year that the landscape underpinning our Giant Adventures is part of the recently designated Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. Join us for unforgettable experiences in Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion.

Giant Events in 2024?

We are busy making preparations for next year's Giant Festival, events and activities. Check back here soon for confirmed details of what's planned.

What's on in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion?

Click here to visit our what's on programme of Festivals and Events for the region this year.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

What's On Search

Food & Drink Search

Shopping Search

It's Time for Giant Events

Make your day

What's On

There’s very rarely a dull moment in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. Its calendar is so packed full of family fun, fabulous festivals and vivacious events that you’ll never be stuck when it comes to celebrating life. There’s a whole host of annual events to choose from, all year round. There are festivals for families and festivals for friends, through tracks, trails and windy bends.
Weekly What's On

From family fun, fabulous festivals and vivacious events, let us help you plan your trip with out weekly guide to What's On.

Where sleeping Giants lie...

Make your day

Plan your Trip

Luckily for visitors, the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has lots for you to see. Planning ahead can make your visit to our region that little bit easier. We can give you the best advice, maps, and guides to help you get the most out of your trip.
Accommodation

Sleep in towering castles, in quaint cottages, or camp under the stars. The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has plenty of places for you to rest your weary head before going on your next giant adventure. This region boasts incredible stays. Holiday in one of our internationally recognised hotels or stay at one of our acclaimed B&Bs. Be prepared for scenic views, comfortable beds, and service and hospitality you’ll never forget.
Food & Drink

The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is the heartland of fresh produce. Our rolling pastures sweep down to an abundant coastline. As the home of Northern Ireland’s largest fishing fleet and some of the country’s most experienced farmers, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Enewsletter Sign Up

Sign up for the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion newsletter for inspiration and travel tips.
Weekly What's On

From family fun, fabulous festivals and vivacious events, let us help you plan your trip with out weekly guide to What's On.
Things to Do

No matter how long your visit, there’s so many things to do and much to see in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. Discover the land where the Mourne Mountains sweep down to the sea.
Explore

With everything close by, the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is plentiful in quaint towns, incredible scenery, ancient forests, and stately homes. Explore the vastness of our landscapes and receive a giant welcome from all you encounter here.
Budget Family Friendly Things To Do

Everyone knows that the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion area is really just one giant adventure park. There are surely few better places on earth for outdoor fun and your kids are sure to love it here. Should it rain, and that can happen on occasion in these parts, there are plenty of budget-friendly things to do indoors too.