Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Footsteps in the Forest Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), your guide to everything you need to know for this year’s event. From ticketing and accessibility to what you can expect on the trail, this section will help you prepare for a magical, safe, and unforgettable evening in Slieve Gullion Forest Park.

What is the Footsteps in the Forest Festival?

Set within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Footsteps in the Forest is a free ticketed event celebrating the Gaelic festival of Samhain (Sow-in), which marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter.

During the festival, Slieve Gullion Forest Park is transformed into the ‘otherworld’, where visitors encounter a spellbinding mix of immersive storytelling, captivating characters, spectacular illuminations, and seasonal treats – all set against the park’s hauntingly beautiful landscape.

Find out more about the Footsteps in the Forest festival HERE.

When does the Footsteps in the Forest in Slieve Gullion Forest Park take place?

Footsteps in the Forest takes place from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October 2025, with sessions running every hour from 5pm to 9pm daily at Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Co. Armagh.

Where is the Footsteps in the Forest festival held?

Footsteps in the Forest takes place at Slieve Gullion Forest Park, 89 Drumintee Road, Killeavy, County Armagh, BT35 8SW.

Slieve Gullion Forest Park is situated just 5 miles southwest of Newry City, on the B113.

What is happening at Footsteps in the Forest?

Footsteps in the Forest is a family-friendly event that celebrates the Gaelic festival of Samhain (Sow-in). Historically observed throughout Ireland, Samhain traditions still shape the Halloween celebrations we know today.

Over seven evenings, Slieve Gullion Forest Park will be transformed into the ‘otherworld’, with costumed characters, mythical storytelling, and stunning illuminations bringing folklore to life. Visitors will follow a guided, illuminated trail that traces the journey from the origins of Samhain to modern-day Halloween.

This is an evening event, designed to be both magical and atmospheric, and is sure to captivate the imaginations of all ages.

Do you need a ticket for Footsteps in the Forest?

Yes. Footsteps in the Forest is a free ticketed event and booking is essential.

Family tickets go live on Monday 6 October 2025 at 10am. Each ticket admits one car, with a maximum of two tickets per household.

Please ensure you have a copy of your ticket (printed or on your phone) to display at the arrival point.

Follow @VisitMourne on social media for updates and reminders.

Can I return or exchange tickets?

Unfortunately, tickets cannot be exchanged for another date or transferred to someone else. If you are unable to attend, tickets can be returned and will be added to the waiting list. Please note that if the festival or specific dates are cancelled, tickets cannot be used for future events.

What time do the guided sessions start?

• Guided sessions run each evening from 5pm, departing every 55 minutes until the final session at 9pm from Monday 20 to Saturday 25 October 2025.

• Irish language sessions will take place from 5pm, departing every 55 minutes until the final session at 9pm on Sunday 26 October 2025.

• An autism-friendly session will take place at 5pm and 6pm each evening from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October 2025 with a brighter setting and lower music.

This is an outdoor evening experience – please wear warm clothing and suitable footwear.

The trail is 1.65km in length, uneven in places, with a slightly challenging gradient at the start. A torch is advisable.

Prams are permitted but not recommended due to the terrain. Many visitors find baby carriers/slings more convenient.

We recommend you arrive 10 minutes before your allocated session time.

Find out more about the festival HERE.

Is food available at the event?

Yes. Seasonal snacks and warm drinks are available to purchase at the Trailhead.

What parking is available?

Parking is available on site. Disabled parking is also available for Blue Badge holders.

Is Slieve Gullion Forest Park open during the Event?

Yes. Slieve Gullion Forest Park will remain open to the general public until 3pm each day during the festival.

What is the closest bus or train station?

The nearest transport hub is Newry City bus station, with direct services from Belfast Grand Central Station.

Travelling from Dublin? Regular train and bus services operate daily to Newry City. Taxi services are available at the rial and bus stations.

For more information on Translink timetables and fares please visit www.translink.co.uk or call the Contact Centre on (028) 90 66 66 30.

For more information on getting around, click HERE.  Plan your trip HERE.

Is the forest trail accessible?

The forest trail is steep in places, with uneven surfaces and rough terrain that may be difficult for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Conditions may worsen in wet weather.

• An autism-friendly tour will run at 5pm and 6pm each evening with lower music and a brighter setting.

• Please note the trail may also be noisy at times.

Will there be toilets onsite?

Yes. Toilet facilities, including accessible toilets, are provided at the start and end of the trail.

Is there accommodation nearby?

There is a range of accommodation options available from family friendly hotels and B&Bs to self-catering and caravan parks.

More information on a range of accommodation options can be found HERE.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Unfortunately, this event is not suitable for dogs.

What happens in case of inclement weather?

The safety of visitors, staff and performers is our top priority. In cases of heavy rain, lightning or severe storms, activities may be delayed, suspended or cancelled if necessary.

The safety of visitors, staff, and performers is our top priority. In cases of heavy rain, lightning, or severe storms, activities may be delayed, suspended, or cancelled if necessary. Please note that tickets cannot be exchanged, rescheduled, or transferred. If you are unable to attend, tickets can be returned and will be added to the waiting list. In the event of a cancellation, tickets cannot be used for future events.

Weather updates will be communicated via:

www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/footstepsintheforest

Social media @visitmourne

On-site announcements.

Please check these platforms regularly for updates. In cases where the weather leads to a cancellation on one of the festival days, we will provide updates through our official website, social media channels and directly to registered ticket holders.

What is your sustainability policy?

Footsteps in the Forest is delivered under the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark Code of Practice for Sustainable Tourism, ensuring respectful engagement with the local community and environment.

We are committed to minimising environmental impact and encourage visitors to support these efforts.

More information about Newry, Mourne & Down District Council’s Sustainable Development can be found HERE. 

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For more information on upcoming Halloween and October events, visit www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/whats-on