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The popular Eats & Beats Festival is returning to Newcastle on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council confirming this year's event will be the biggest yet. For the first time, a small admission fee will apply.
Set in Donard Park against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, the two-day festival will feature more than 24 music acts across two live performance stages. Headline acts include D:Ream, Anna's Number and When Ireland Rocked, featuring legendary Thin Lizzy guitarist Eric Bell, alongside emerging local talent and crowd favourites.
Food will again be a central part of the weekend, with more than 24 food vendors and 18 regional food producers taking part. Renowned chef Paul Cunningham will host 10 live cookery demonstrations, with guest appearances from Jenny Bristow and Suzie Lee. The Curious Minds and Kid's Zone experiences will also return, catering for younger visitors.
Now in its fourth year, Eats & Beats has grown into one of the standout events in the district's festival calendar, drawing thousands of visitors to Newcastle each year and boosting the local hospitality and tourism economy.
Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said: "Eats & Beats has become a key highlight in our annual programme and we are excited to welcome residents and visitors back to Newcastle for another fantastic weekend. The festival showcases the very best of our local food, music and hospitality offering while creating a fun, inclusive and family-friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy."
A daily admission charge of £5 will apply this year, with children aged 0-4 admitted free. Family ticket options will also be available. Council have said that the introduction of ticketing will support capacity management and help ensure the festival continues to grow in the years ahead.
Tickets go on sale on Thursday 11 June at 10am via the Council's Box Office at visitmournegullionstrangford.com.
