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Wake the Giant returns to Warrenpoint on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August, bringing folklore, live music and family entertainment to the town. The festival marks the opening chapter of Giant Adventures 2026 and sees Fionn mac Cumhaill returning again to lead the Giant's Parade.
New for this year is The Giant's Trail, a walkable, story-led adventure that transforms Warrenpoint into an immersive world of discovery. Following the Giant's Footsteps through the town, families will encounter giant sculptures and larger-than-life surprises as they uncover new chapters in the legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill. Connecting key festival locations, the trail encourages visitors to explore Warrenpoint while experiencing its heritage, creativity and community spirit.
The Giant Parade will take place on both days, bringing Fionn mac Cumhaill to life on the streets of Warrenpoint. It departs from Newry Street, Warrenpoint at 1pm on Saturday 1 August, and from 'Giant's Plaza' at Warrenpoint Promenade at 4pm on Sunday 2 August. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, soak up the festival atmosphere and choose their viewing spot before the parade begins.
Live music will take centre stage throughout the weekend with a full programme of performances at the Bandstand. Saturday's line-up begins with Matt McGinn at 11am, followed by Uplifted Gospel Choir, The Vibes and Catherine McGrath, before Britain's Got Talent 2026 semi-finalist and local harpist Niamh Noade closes the day's entertainment at 4.45pm. On Sunday, performances from Patrice McKevitt, Sionán Hanratty, Matthew Benson and The Unholy Gospel Band will be followed by Newry's finest, The 4 of Us, who bring the festival to a close with a headline performance from 4.45pm.
Food lovers can enjoy the Giant Food Village, featuring artisan producers, street food and sweet treats, while the Giant Food Trail encourages visitors to explore Warrenpoint's cafés, restaurants and eateries serving festival-inspired dishes. Throughout the weekend, The Land of Giants in Warrenpoint Municipal Park will offer family-friendly experiences including Green Crafts, Curious Minds, the Bemusement Arcade, the Garden Games and the Giant Food Village, while Giant's Plaza on Warrenpoint Promenade will host live entertainment, giant performances and the Family Disco on Sunday afternoon.
Families can pre-book Green Crafts workshops and the Sensory Hub, which provides a welcoming, inclusive space for children and adults who may benefit from a quieter festival environment. From 10am to 12.30pm each day, visitors can enjoy a gentler festival experience with reduced queuing, no loud music and fewer crowds, and early booking is recommended as places are limited.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna, said Wake the Giant continues to grow as one of Northern Ireland's most unique family festivals. "We're delighted to introduce The Giant's Trail as an exciting new experience for 2026. Combined with the Giant Parade, live entertainment, family activities and local food, it promises another unforgettable weekend in Warrenpoint."
Cllr Hanna said the festival is a wonderful opportunity to discover everything Mourne Gullion Strangford has to offer while celebrating its folklore, creativity and community spirit.
For the full festival programme, advance booking for Green Crafts and the Sensory Hub, or just to plan your visit, go to www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/wakethegiant.
