Giant Adventures

2024 Giant Adventures Series in Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark

The Giant Adventures series returned in 2024 with three spectacular events that promised to entertain both locals and visitors alike. Highlighting the exceptional natural beauty and cultural richness of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark through immersive events and experiences that blend tradition with entertainment.

Wake the Giant Festival

Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 August 2024

The adventures began in Warrenpoint with the awe-inspiring Wake the Giant festival. This year, the legendary giant Fionn mac Cumhaill had company. Fionn made a welcome return to Warrenpoint where he shared the tale of his temporary retreat to Cooley Mountain before welcoming two new Giant Guardians named Carley and Wee Binnian to the area.

Visitors enjoyed live entertainment, local and international food, family and craft activities and giant parades.

Eats and Beats Festival

Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 September 2024

As summer faded, the Eats and Beats festival got underway under the sunny skies of Newcastle, celebrating the Mourne Gullion Strangford’s vibrant musical heritage and food scene. This festival is a foodie’s and music lover’s paradise with a wealth of flavours and incredible acts, in addition to events and festivities in venues right across the town.

This eclectic mix of delicious food and live performances ensured an unforgettable weekend in the heart of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark.

Footsteps in the Forest

Monday 21 – Tuesday 29 October 2024

As the crisp autumn air settled in, the Footsteps in the Forest festival at Slieve Gullion Forest Park offered a perfect Halloween adventure. This year the extended festival celebrated the ancient festival of Samhain with eerie entertainment, tantalising treats, and immersive storytelling.

Sustainable Tourism in Mourne Gullion Strangford

Each event within the Giant Adventures Series is designed and delivered under the Geopark Code of Practice for sustainable tourism, ensuring every activity is conducted with respect for the environment and local communities.

Visit Us in Mourne Gullion Strangford

Find out more event information, accommodation options, dining spots, and other activities here during your visit to Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.

Mark your calendars and prepare for a journey through the mythical, the musical, and the magical in the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. Join us to create memories that will last a lifetime! Check back soon for 2025 dates!

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It's Time for Giant Events

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Footsteps in the Forest

Footsteps in the Forest, a magical Halloween experience in Slieve Gullion Forest Park from Monday 21 - Tuesday 29 October 2024.
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...

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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.
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.
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.
Plan your Trip

Luckily for visitors, 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.
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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.