Wake the Giant Festival Returns with Fionn Mac Cumhaill Welcoming Two New Giants
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 festival-goers, 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 in on the craic 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.
These 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 added: “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
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The Wake the Giant festival is part of the Giant Adventures events programme including the Eats and Beats festival on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September in Newcastle, Co Down.
Following its hugely successful turnout last year, food enthusiasts and music lovers will come together to celebrate the area’s culinary delights, while talented artists create an electric atmosphere with live music performances.
The popular Footsteps in the Forest festival will also make a welcome return to Slieve Gullion Forest Park from Monday 21 to Tuesday 29 October.
Families and thrill-seekers will encounter enchanting characters, spine-tingling surprises, and immersive storytelling.
In addition to the Giant Adventures festivals there will be an exciting programme of summer events that will also celebrate the district’s culture and heritage.
These events will add to the fantastic offering already in place for both locals and visitors enjoying their summer in Visit Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.
Full details on: www.visitmournemountains.co.uk
