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Thousands of visitors attended Warrenpoint for Wake the Giant at the weekend, the opening event in the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council's Giant Adventures 2026 programme.
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The legendary Fionn mac Cumhaill led two Giant's Parades through the streets of Warrenpoint on 1 and 2 August, with crowds lining the route to experience what organisers describe as one of Northern Ireland's most distinctive festival spectacles. A major highlight of this year's festival was the launch of the new Giant's Trail, inviting visitors to follow the Giant's footsteps through Warrenpoint while discovering giant sculptures and larger than life surprises throughout the town. The new addition encouraged families to explore Warrenpoint in a new way and proved popular throughout the weekend.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna, said Wake the Giant continues to grow year after year and it was fantastic to see Warrenpoint come alive once again with thousands of visitors enjoying everything the festival had to offer. Cllr Hanna said the introduction of the Giant's Trail added an exciting new dimension to the event, encouraging visitors to explore the town while celebrating the legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill in a unique and engaging way. He said: "Events like Wake the Giant play an important role in showcasing Mourne Gullion Strangford as a visitor destination, supporting our local businesses and hospitality sector while creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike."
Over the two days, the festival delivered a packed programme of family entertainment. Visitors explored The Land of Giants, discovered the Giant Food Village and Giant Food Trail, enjoyed the Giant Funfair, took part in Green Craft Workshops, and experienced the dedicated Sensory Hub, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive festival for all. The festival atmosphere was brought to life with a programme of live music at Warrenpoint Municipal Park, while families also enjoyed a Family Disco before gathering at Giant's Plaza to welcome Fionn mac Cumhaill ahead of Sunday's Giant's Parade, providing a finale to the weekend.
Food remained central to Wake the Giant, with local cafés, restaurants, artisan producers and traders helping to create a vibrant atmosphere throughout Warrenpoint while showcasing the region's food and drink offering. The festival also continued its focus on sustainability and community through initiatives including the annual Beach Clean and Green Craft Workshops, aimed at ensuring the festival leaves a positive legacy after Fionn has departed.
As Fionn mac Cumhaill leaves Warrenpoint for another year, attention now turns to the next event in the Giant Adventures 2026 programme. Eats & Beats which returns to Donard Park, Newcastle, on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, featuring more than 24 live music acts, over 24 food vendors, artisan producers, live cookery demonstrations and family entertainment. Further information on Eats & Beats and the full Giant Adventures 2026 programme is available at www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com.
