Write a commentNewry, Mourne and Down District Council kicks off their festival season from 3-4 June with Footsteps in the Forest returning to Slieve Gullion Forest Park.
It's the first of its Giant Adventure festivals and the winner of the 2016 Heritage Council of Ireland, Cool for Kids award.
The inaugural 2016 event saw thousands of children spell bound as they wove their way through the enchanted forest, encountering mythical creatures gathering for a high summer meeting. This year they are back and a new quest has presented itself. As they gather on the mountain once more, news reaches the forest of a new challenge to the peaceful order.
A school engagement programme to involve local school children in the Festival included a creative competition where children could enter to be part of the Festival. The winning entrants were four local children from St Patricks Primary School, Mayobridge; St Patricks Primary School, Crossmaglen; Cloughoge Primary School and St Oliver Plunkett Primary School, Forkhill.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick said, “Last year’s Footsteps in the Forest was a giant success. The event is a great opportunity to engage children in their local heritage in a magical inspiring way.”
This weekend long festival will have something for all ages. As well as a huge cast of magical creatures, it will have an abundance of family fun wherever you turn. Take part in children’s craft workshops in sword and shield making, watch a real blacksmith at work and try your hand at wood turning and other fascinating crafts. There’s traditional Irish music and delicious foods from local artisan producers and so much more.
All online tickets for the Footsteps in the Forest guided theatrical performances are booked but you don’t need a ticket to enjoy all the other fun and activities over the weekend.
For more information visit ringofgullion.org or contact the Festival Office at 028 3031 3170.
