Castlewellan’s SOMA FEST 2024 Line-Up Revealed

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The full lineup of performances and attractions of this year’s instalment of the ever-popular SOMA Festival has been unveiled for July 19-21.

With less than two weeks to go, ticket holders will be thrilled to explore the variety of musical performances, family entertainment, craft stalls and more on offer.

The Soma Festival opening celebration will take place at The Lodge Business and Cultural Centre, Castlewellan, on Friday 19th July at 6.30pm. Ancient Whispers: The Fairy Gathering / Cruinniú na Sídhe is a family event combining story, song and music, and attendees are warmly encouraged to dress in costume relating to the elements (fire, water, earth, air and spirit) for the occasion. 

Headlining the three-day festival on Saturday July 20 is John Spillane, one of the biggest names in folk music across the world, who will be joined by the Soma House Band for a night of brilliant song in St. Malachy’s GAC.

The Cork-native is known for his gorgeous songs such as All The Ways You Wander and The Dunnes Store Girl, and will be supported on stage by Graham Henderson (keys), John McSherry (pipes/low whistle), Emma King (percussion/drums), Seán Ó Meara (guitar), and Tola Custy (fiddle). Talented young singer/songwriter Cathleen Garland is set to support. 

Kicking off the SOMA Festival on Friday, July 19, is award-winning Dublin performer Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin, whose powerful voice and lyrics are set to captivate in the King’s Inn.   

Supporting act on the night comes from Castlewellan’s own Ciara McCrickard Trio. This event is in partnership with Glór Uachtar Tíre.

SOMA Festival Director, Tíona McSherry, praised the behind-the-scenes organisers for curating this year’s brilliant line-up, saying: “Our team has come up with another stellar programme for festival goers to enjoy this year. 

“We’re so excited for the incredible acts we have coming to perform. We hope Castlewellan is as buzzing for it as we are.”

Other musical stars set for SOMA Festival 2024 include tradtronica group Huartan and closing-act funk band GrooveLine with Belfast-based folk outfit Lonesome George.

As well as four fantastic concerts, there will be a session trail taking in many pubs of the town. Attendees can also take advantage of the plethora of different hubs open on varying dates between July 19-21.

The Mind, Body & Soul space is open on both Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 in The Lodge Business & Cultural Centre, hosting a dedicated health and wellness area as well as housing a craft fair where local small businesses can display their creations.

Alternatively, Soma in the Square boasts live music, children’s activities, the Whitewater Brewing Co. Bar and delicious food on July 20 and 21 for fun that the whole family can enjoy.

For free-spirited visitors, the Little Gems series on offer across the long weekend features award-winning author Michael Magee reading from his terrific debut novel, a panel discussion on Irish language films (featuring Colm Bairéad, writer/director of Oscar nominated film An Cáilín Ciúin), serene nature walks throughout the County Down countryside and much more.

SOMA Festival 2024 received funding from Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, Foras na Gaeilge, and sponsors and partners Whitewater Brewing Co., Glór Uachtar Tíre, Excalibur Press, Dolmes Climate Action Network, and Cumann Phobail Garbhdhoire, and tickets are already available for purchase as either individual event passes or weekend access to all concerts.

The SOMA Festival runs between 19th-21st July and full details including tickets can be found at www.linktr.ee/thesomafestival 

Deadline For Applications Extended For NI Social Enterprise Awards 2024

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The deadline for entries to the 2024 Social Enterprise Northern Ireland Awards has been extended until midnight on Wednesday, July 31. This extension gives social enterprises the opportunity to submit their entries for one of the 16 prestigious awards.

These awards are not just about recognition but come with significant benefits. They allow organisations to reward their teams, enhance credibility, increase brand exposure and trust within their peer network, and seize PR and marketing opportunities. Winning can open doors to new business and boost sales, all while showcasing the sector’s excellence.

The Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Awards, in partnership with Go Succeed highlight the talented individuals, teams and organisations who are making a real difference, changing lives, building inclusive communities, and making a positive impact in society, all while making a profit through their respective business. 

Winners will be announced at a gala award ceremony on Friday, November 8, hosted by radio presenter and Social Enterprise Northern Ireland ambassador Cate Conway.

The 2024 Award Categories cover a broad spectrum, including Best New Start Up, Best Use of Social Media, Community Wealth Building, Consumer Facing Social Enterprise, Cooperative, Council, Credit Union (with categories for both assets up to £25 million and over £25 million), Emerging Leader, Leader of the Year, Outstanding Team Award, Product Based Social Enterprise (new), Rural Social Enterprise of the Year, Social Enterprise of the Year (both for turnovers up to £500k and over £500k), Social Impact Award, Social Value Partnership, and Young Person. There are also specific Private & Public Sector Categories such as the Social Value Partnership Award and Council of the Year.

Speaking about the extension announcement, Colin Jess, Chief Executive of Social Enterprise Northern Ireland said: “We are pleased to see so many local organisations submitting their online applications, highlighting significant business achievements, positive social impact and economic contributions all within the last 12 months. We have extended the deadline to give people more time to submit their application. We look forward to receiving yours before the deadline.”

Cathy Keenan, Go Succeed Programme Lead, said: “This year, Go Succeed is delighted to partner with SENI as the main sponsor of the Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Awards. Working to help social enterprises of all shapes and sizes, in every council area in Northern Ireland, to accelerate their growth journey, we see first-hand the incredible organisations that make up this vibrant sector.

We want to celebrate those achievements with you and with the extended deadline, there’s now even more time to make your submission, and let us do just that.”

To enter the 2024 Awards, visit https://socialenterpriseni.awardsplatform.com/

7 HILLS BLUES FEST RETURNS TO ARMAGH CITY

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The unmissable weekend featuring over 40 free gigs across 16 venues

The long running 7 Hills Blues Fest makes a welcome return to Armagh City this Summer.  The unmissable weekend featuring over 40 free gigs across 16 venues, is a musical celebration of blues and roots music. The festival takes place from Friday 2 – Sunday 4 August 2024.

The festival attracts a wide range of local and international blues artists and bands. This year’s lineup includes award winning Cork based Two Time Polka, along with the legendary Rob Strong, who is known as Ireland’s Godfather of Soul and is celebrating 60 years on the road, Fan’s Favourite the Pat McManus band and the critically acclaimed Ben Reel.

Welcoming the event Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Councillor , Councillor Sarah Duffy expressed her enthusiasm:

“Come celebrate music and culture with us! We look forward to welcoming you to Armagh for the 7 Hills Blues Fest. A packed weekend of world class blues, rhythm and roots music in a variety of unbeatable venues across the city. There is something to suit everyone, whether visiting the city to shop, eat, drink or to see the sights, those bluesy tones won’t be far away. Hosting such events is an opportunity to showcase what our city has to offer, attracting visitors from far and near, boosting footfall and benefiting our local traders.”   

Newcomers include 16-year-old Guitar Sensation Zac Mac, from Lurgan, who is a singer songwriter tipped to be a rockstar in the making.  Dublin Based Mr Castle’s Blues Band and the high energy Blues Confidential.  Local acts performing this year include Courtnay Giffin, The 4 Shuck Men and The Dirt.

The weekend is one the major annual events organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, and attracts hundreds of visitors, local and from further afield.

As well as over 40 free gigs, the packed weekend features some fantastic family friendly entertainment in Market Street. Kick starting the festival on Friday 2 August, at lunchtime a selection of musicians will take to the bandstand. The family fun continues on Saturday with MD Rafferty Music School Live Lounge, free street entertainment, face painting, balloon modelling, music entertainment and much more, it’s an afternoon not to be missed.

The 7 Hills Blues Fest programme is now available to view and download at visitarmagh.com/7hills

Armoy Road Races Set to Welcome Over 10,000 Visitors During Race Week

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Event Brings ‘Significant Boost’ to Local Economy Says Hotel Owner

ATTRACTING some of the biggest names in road racing, over 10,000 fans from across the world are expected to descend upon Armoy during Race Week, which is culminating in the iconic Armoy Road Races and the Bayview Hotel Race of Legends, taking place in the County Antrim village from Friday 26th – Saturday 27th July.

Over 10,000 fans are expected to descend upon Armoy during Race Week which is culminating in the Armoy Road Races and Bayview Hotel Race of Legends, taking place on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July. Pictured are, members of the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club, road racers, Dominic Herbertson, Ryan Whitehall, Jeremy McWilliams and Neil Kernohan, Trevor Kane, owner of the Bayview Hotel, Portballintrae and Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Alongside drawing a huge number of visitors, this year’s event will see some of the most prestigious names in road racing taking on the circuit including Davey Todd, Jamie Coward, Derek Shiels, Michael Sweeney and Mike Browne. Competing at the Isle of Man TT a few weeks ago, Dominic Herbertson, Paul Jordan and Sam West will also be taking part in the Armoy Road Races this year.

According to William Munnis, Chairman of the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club and Clerk of Course, the event has grown in popularity since its inception in 2009.

“We’re so proud that the Armoy Road Races has grown over the last 15 years to become one of the ‘must attend’ events in the Irish road racing calendar,” he said.

“The event commonly hosts thousands of fans from across Europe and the rest of the world including Australia and the United States of America and we hope that it will be the same this year, especially with the calibre of riders that will be taking part.”

Meanwhile, Trevor Kane, title sponsor of the Race of Legends and owner of the Bayview Hotel, in Portballintrae, says that the event provides a “significant boost” for businesses and local tourism in the area.

“Events like the Armoy Road Races are vital as they contribute a huge amount to the local economy,” he said.  

“The Races not only showcase Northern Ireland’s rich road racing history and its picturesque landscape, but it also provides an essential economic uplift for the area as it draws many thousands of visitors year on year.

“Our staff at the Bayview Hotel are busy preparing to welcome our global visitors in just a few weeks’ time and I have no doubt that they’ll enjoy an action-packed weekend of racing.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported the Bayview over the years and continue to do so. It is vital that everyone continues to support the races in whatever way they can even by buying the programme package. The Club and its members who give of their time freely must be commended, so it’s only fair that we do our bit too and as local businesses and fans we must continue to support this fantastic sport and these exceptionally well run road races!”

Meanwhile, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council added: “Over the last 15 years, the Armoy Road Races has grown to become an event not to be missed and on behalf of Council, we’re very proud to continue to support this much-loved event.

“From hotels and restaurants to local retailers and transportation, this event helps boost the economy, while also attracting visitors to the Borough and showcasing what we have to offer. 

“The North Coast is synonymous with road racing and has produced some of the world’s greatest riders and we are delighted to see this continue.

“On behalf of the Borough, I hope that all those who travel from near and far to attend the Armoy Road Races, have a safe and enjoyable weekend, while also experiencing the world-class hospitality Causeway Coast and Glens is famous for.”

Part funded by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, the Armoy Road Races are set to take place on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July, culminating with the prestigious Bayview Hotel Race of Legends.

Programme packages are currently on sale via the website, that includes a vehicle parking pass and a limited-edition event lanyard which enables spectators to enter specific vantage points around the circuit.

Race Week is also taking place from Sunday 21st July until Saturday 27th July with various events scheduled including a ride out and barbecue, a classic car display and a classic bike display.

For more information on Armoy Road Races and Race Week, visit: www.amrrc.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook or follow on X @ArmoyRoadRaces.

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Marine Hotel, Ballycastle, County Antrim

Escape to the beach this summer with Marine Hotel’s ‘Summer One Night Family Break’ offer starting from £199 midweek. This offer includes bed and full breakfast for two adults and up to two children, additional children £22.00. Explore Ballycastle Beach with complimentary buckets and spades for your little ones on arrival and discover the local area with Penny’s Summer Scavenger Hunt. Enjoy some family time playing board games in the lounge or explore the children’s play park just outside the front of the hotel. Offer available until the end of August. Visit www.marinehotelballycastle.com for more information.

 

The Valley Hotel, Fivemiletown, County Tyrone

Tick Cuilcagh off the bucket list and enjoy an overnight stay with The Valley Hotel before or after your climb, with bed and breakfast, bubbles and packed lunch. Starting from £129 for a double room, the offer includes an overnight stay, delicious full Irish breakfast in the morning, bottle of bubbly, packed lunch in picnic backpack and complimentary car parking for all guests. Offer available from Sunday to Thursday, until 30 September. Visit www.thevalleyhotel.com for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com

SOMA FEST 2024 Returns To Castlewellan This Month

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The well known SOMA Festival will be returning to Castlewellan, County Down later this month with a whole host of musical performances, exciting activities and holistic experiences.

Running from July 19-21, the ever-popular SOMA Festival will feature a variety of performances, offering audiences the chance to embrace the alternative festival vibe that can’t be found anywhere else.

The three-day event has been specially curated by the SOMA volunteer team to ensure that the best artists from across the island of Ireland and beyond will be in attendance.

Tíona McSherry, SOMA Festival Director, said she was delighted to develop another fantastic line-up for this year’s event along with the wider team.

She said: “Our team has come up with another stellar programme for festival goers to enjoy this year. 

“We’re so excited for the incredible acts we have coming to perform. We hope Castlewellan is as buzzing for it as we are.”

With funding from Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, Foras na Gaeilge, and sponsors and partners Whitewater Brewing Co., Glór Uachtar Tíre, Excalibur Press, Dolmes Climate Action Network, and Cumann Phobail Garbhdhoire, SOMA Festival 2024 tickets are already available and can be purchased for individual events or as a weekend access pass to all concerts.

With a full line-up set to be released in due course there will be a number of festival hubs scattered around the town with SOMA on the Square, Little Gems and Mind, Body & Soul also making a return.

Tíona added: “It takes a dedicated group of people to attempt to pull any festival off, not to mention doing it for the love alone. 

“A big thank you to all of our funders and sponsors, in particular Whitewater Brewing Co. and Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, and the wonderful volunteers who help make the SOMA Festival a reality.”

SOMA Festival 2024 is set to offer a welcome space for everyone regardless of what they’re interested in, including everything from live music and family entertainment to nature walks and meditation sessions.

The SOMA Festival runs between 19th-21st July and full details including tickets can be found at www.linktr.ee/thesomafestival 

Orangefest Celebrations Set For July 12 At Belfast City Hall

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Jonathan Walker, Ravenhill Road Volunteers LOL 580 and Leah Magill, Pride of the Raven Flute Band

A whole host of family fun activities is planned to take place at Belfast’s City Hall in conjunction with the annual parades to commemorate The Twelfth.

Created to complement the July 12 parades, Orangefest 2024 will take place from 10am-4pm at both Belfast City Hall and surrounding areas in Royal Avenue.

Established in 2007, Orangefest was created to enhance the well-known yearly parades with a variety of inclusive and entertaining activities. 

The 2024 festival boasts an impressive line-up from an international food market in the grounds of City Hall organised by Food NI and Taste of Ulster offering up a range of local and international cuisines as well as live cooking demonstrations.

Circusful street entertainers will be bringing their award-winning street theatre to the grounds of City Hall where stilt walkers, drumming workshop from community tribal drummers, drop in circus skills and circus shows provided free and suitable for all ages.

County Grand Master, Rt. Wor. Bro. Spencer Beattie said the organising committee are delighted “to be bringing together a variety of activities to encourage people to remain in the city centre throughout the morning.”

He said: “Our message this year is that Belfast is very much going to be open for business during the 12th July celebrations.

“Many retailers throughout the city centre have committed to remaining opening during the festivities from 1pm to 5pm and we want to encourage people to enjoy their time in the city centre responsibly and safely.”

As well as the programme of events in the grounds of City Hall there will also be a range of Belfast City Hall guided tours available throughout the morning allowing people to experience the city’s rich history.

Mr Beattie said he looks forward to welcoming people from all across the city to Orangefest this year: “It is our mission to enhance the well-known 12th of July celebrations by providing additional activities that are educational, entertaining, and accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and togetherness in Belfast.

“As we enjoy the spectacle of the 334th annual demonstration of the Battle of the Boyne, we are looking forward to a feast of activity at Belfast City Hall.

“We aspire to make the Belfast 12th a globally recognised event that not only highlights the cultural significance of the day but also promotes unity and economic growth. 

“Through our efforts, we aim to remove barriers, foster mutual respect, and create a positive and inclusive environment for all citizens and visitors.”

The events will also be complemented by a range of eye-catching street dressings and display banners, adding to the festive atmosphere by Image Zoo.

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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La Mon Hotel and Country Club, Gransha, County Down

La Mon Hotel and Country Club is a fantastic base for a great family holiday. From £178 per family of four, enjoy a family friendly escape, including an overnight stay and full breakfast, kids goodie bag, access to La Mon Country Club with 15 Metre Swimming Pool and Kids Pool, and free parking. You’ll find fun all around this location from Streamvale Open Farm, WWT Castle Espie, Let’s Go Hydro and so much more. Offer valid until 31 August 2024. Visit www.lamon.co.uk for more information.

Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

From £182.50 per person sharing, experience bliss with Lough Erne’s overnight stay and spa offer. Your tranquil escape awaits as you journey to The Thai Spa for a 60-minute Full Body Aroma Therapy Massage with use of the relaxation facilities. Retire to your luxury guest room to enjoy a relaxing overnight stay with breakfast the next morning and access to the Collop Walk. Offer valid until 24 December 2024. Visit https://www.lougherneresort.com/ for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com

 

10 Exciting Things to do Next Week across NI

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Here are ten exciting things to do 1-7 July

 

  1. American Independence Weekend Celebrations at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 6-7 July. Don’t miss this American Independence celebration. Discover what it was like for emigrants who left Ulster and arrived in America just as they declared independence. Watch the reading of the ‘Act of Independence’ on American Street, see demonstrations of traditional skills and try tasty food samples like cherry and almond cake or succotash. There’ll be live music on the frontier, face painting, air rifle shooting range, plus entertainment for kids (and big kids) alike including ‘Punch and Judy’ and magic shows.
  2. Kayak Sunset Sessions, Rostrevor, County Down, until 1 September. Each week during the summer months of July and August, enjoy kayak sunset sessions on the amazing Carlingford Lough. It is run from Rostrevor slipway behind the Pier. The sunset sessions will be run every Monday and Wednesday evening 6pm – 8pm, depending on weather, and will be £15pp (charges may apply when booking online). The price includes hire of all equipment (kayak and paddle, wetsuit, buoyancy aid).
  3. Summer of Play at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 1 July – 1 September. Get your heart racing in nature this summer. Challenge friends and family to a host of games sure to get you active in the sun. Play volleyball or badminton on the front lawn, stroll through the Pleasure Ground in search of sporting adventures or explore the play area and test your abilities as you duck under and clamber over the obstacles.
  4. A Collection of Robots, Cyborgs and Androids at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 2 July – 1 September. Visit Armagh Planetarium this summer for a robotic exhibit showcasing memorable and iconic robots from the last 40 years of Science Fiction. Marvel at full size heroic robots, vintage tin toys and sculptures in all shapes and sizes from comics, books and movies. Around every corner lurks another metallic star. Admission to the robots is included with a dome show ticket. Exhibit only ticket also available.
  5. Children’s Bushcraft at Old Castle Archdale Forest, Enniskillen, Fermanagh, 6 July. Join Geopark Guide Stephen at Old Castle Archdale to sample life in the great outdoors and connect with your inner Bear Grylles. Learn all about shelter-building and cooking outside during the two-hour Introduction to Bushcraft session. Please dress for the outdoors.
  6. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 4-6 July. Get ready to have fun at the Amazing Stendhal Festival, Northern Ireland’s biggest and much-loved independent music and arts festival since 2011. Kickstart your summer with singing, dancing and all modes of merriment courtesy of a stellar cast of performers from all artistic walks of life. Music, comedy, poetry, a dedicated family programme and a host of visual arts for your senses to feast upon.
  7. Kid’s Choccy Rocky Summer Experience, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 5 July. Join the Chocolate Manor team in Castlerock for the tastiest kids experience on the Causeway Coast. In this one-hour kids only experience, participants will make three fabulous chocolate creations using the finest Belgian chocolate. They will be offered a hot chocolate while their creations set and then package them up to take home and enjoy.
  8. Glass Runway, Belfast, until 25 July. Showcasing the unexpected potential of glass and fashion, the Glass Runway is brought to NI craft audiences by the Glass Society of Ireland, in collaboration with The Council of Irish Fashion Designers. Expect hot topics, hard truths, thought-provoking reflections and an unyielding focus on what beauty, gender and equality mean to different people. The exhibition will feature 20 glass artists and fashion designers showing collaborative and individual pieces which include glass bags, millinery, dresses and jewellery.
  9. Secret Garden at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, Belfast, 5 July. Enjoy an evening stroll through Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, famous for the International Rose Garden. This walk will focus on some of the less well-known aspects of the grounds and the local history of the park. Meet at Lower Stables car park, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park at 7pm. Cost £6 per person. Booking and pre-payment essential.
  10. County Antrim Junior Senior and Masters Tennis Championship, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 6 – 13 July. The County Antrim Tennis Championships are back again this Summer! Held in the beautiful setting of the Ballycastle tennis courts, close to the beach, the tournament features events from age 8 to 80, with junior, senior and veteran events taking place in the same venue during the tournament week.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.

Wake the Giant Festival Returns with Fionn Mac Cumhaill Welcoming Two New Giants

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Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the towering figure of the Wake the Giant Festival will make a spectacular return to Warrenpoint this year with the theme, ‘The Land of Giants’. Taking place on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 August, this year’s festival promises even more excitement with the arrival of two new Giant Guardians, Wee Binnian and Carley.

These magnificent 14-foot marionettes have journeyed all the way from the legendary ‘Land of the Giants’ to join in the festivities for the first time. Having heard about the vibrant festival atmosphere and the legendary craic, the giants could not resist the opportunity to be part of the celebrations and to help wake Fionn from his sleep.

Wee Binnian and Carley are eager to explore Warrenpoint and meet festivalgoers, as they make their grand debut in The Giants Parade. Beginning on Church Street, Fionn, Wee Binnian and Carley will stroll along Queen Street, creating awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable photo opportunities before reaching Fionn’s resting place for the weekend on Warrenpoint Pier.

Join us as for an unforgettable weekend as Warrenpoint transforms into the ‘Land of the Giants.’ Packed with family-friendly activities, from magical encounters to engaging events featuring Fionn Mac Cumhaill, Wee Binnian and Carley. Our incredible giants will take part in various programmed activities throughout the weekend, giving you the chance to interact with them up close. Bring the whole family and help our new giants discover the wonders of their new world!

Wake the Giant is part of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Giant Adventures series – a year-long programme of unforgettable visitor experiences which showcase the breathtaking landscapes and the captivating myths and legends of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark.

Highlights of the festival include the spectacular Giants Parade through Warrenpoint and the Gathering to Wake The Giant Fionn from his slumber. Warrenpoint Municipal Park will once again be transformed into The Land of Giants, featuring Family Garden Games, Green Crafts Workshops, Bemusement Arcade and the Food Village.

Families and visitors can also enjoy a new Sensory Hub located in Warrenpoint Town Hall which will provide a safe and relaxing space for children and adults to enjoy over the weekend, with changing places located nearby on Great Georges Street (South).

Throughout the weekend, musicians will take to the stage of the Park’s beautiful bandstand. Kicking off Saturday’s lineup is Niamh Noade, finalist from The Voice Kids and Junior Eurovision, with soulful reggae sounds of The Vibes bringing things to a close. Visitors can also enjoy the likes of Sophie Lennon as well as NI Soul Troop and The New Leaves across the weekend.

Don’t miss this chance to watch the facade of the former Osborne Hotel be transformed into a vibrant canvas as nature street artist ‘Faunagraphic’ creates a Giant Art Mural depicting the unique aspects of Mourne Gullion and Strangford Global Geopark.

 

Warrenpoint’s Giant Food Trail through the town will return offering a Giant Feast of local and international cuisine to tantalise your tastebuds all weekend long and a Giant Funfair on Warrenpoint Promenade will entertain with thrilling rides and classic carnival games for all to enjoy.

 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, “Wake the Giant is one of the Council’s flagship events, and I am delighted that it is returning to Warrenpoint this year. Since 2016, we have been growing the Giant Adventure festivals, establishing the area as a premier tourism destination in Ireland.

 

Councillor Byrne continued, “This year’s festival promises to be spectacular, with giant-sized experiences and visual delights at every turn. The highlight will undoubtedly be Fionn Mac Cumhaill’s sensational return accompanied by his two new Giant Guardians, ‘Wee Binnian’ and ‘Carley’, who will entertain visitors all weekend long.

 

“Complementing our Giant Adventure series this year will be the return of the 2024 Amgen Irish Open, which will take place from Wednesday 11 September to Sunday 15 September in Newcastle. We look forward to watching our favourite stars compete throughout the week at Royal County Down. Together, these events increase our tourism offering, providing unique opportunities to connect with our community, celebrate our heritage, and create lasting memories. Please join us this summer for another season of unforgettable adventures across Newry, Mourne and Down and south Armagh.”

 

For the latest information on our Wake The Giant Festival visit www.visitmournemountains/co.uk/wakethegiant . For ideas of where to stay, eat and for even more things to do during your time here in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion and for Giant event details please go to www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/giant-adventures Follow us on Social media @VisitMourne #VisitMourne #MourneMountains #RingOfGullion #StrangfordLough

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