What's On in County Down

Stunning coastlines, towering hills, and charming towns — that's County Down! After all, this county is home to the highest mountain in Northern Ireland. A trip to the Mourne County is sure to leave you feeling upbeat and positive, with everything that it has to offer. From lively festivals celebrating local food to fun-filled days at historic castles, there's always something new to discover in this beautiful part of Northern Ireland.

Sea Bangor (24 - 25 May)

Bangor's waterfront will once again transform into a vibrant hub of celebration with the return of Sea Bangor. This popular festival brings a buzz to the town, featuring a 'rave' by the sea, exciting funfair rides, and an outdoor bar. Festival-goers can enjoy brilliant food demonstrations and thrilling on-water displays showcasing e-foiling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The much-anticipated rowing competition will also return. Each May, Bangor bursts with energy as both locals and visitors flock to partake in the festivities.

Blues on the Bay, Warrenpoint (21 - 27 May)

The sea isn’t the only thing that’s blue in Warrenpoint. Every May the sound of blues and jazz music fills the bars, cafes, public spaces and streets of this picturesque waterside town. Celebrating its incredible 25th anniversary, the International Blues on the Bay Festival will become every music fan’s paradise this year as it hosts seven-days of over 60 free breath-taking blues and jazz gigs, music and jam sessions. That’s 8 gigs a day if you’re counting, but you’re allowed to miss one or two. Featuring amazing international blues musicians from across the globe and closer to home, you'll find something for all tastes.

Wake the Giant, Warrenpoint (28 - 29 June)

Finn the friendly giant lives in Warrenpoint, near his sidekick the Point Man. Every year they go for a stroll through the town, all 32-feet tall of them. As you’d expect, over the years this has caused quite the stir in these parts and now thousands come to witness the giants’ walk. This vibrant festival celebrates the town's unique heritage and legends, and offers visitors a weekend full of exciting events and activities. From live music and performances, to Giants food feast and children’s activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The story of Finn and his folklore friends is brought to life through theatre, music, character performances and storytelling throughout the town, culminating in a colourful, interactive moving theatre.

Fiddlers Green Festival, Rostrevor (16 - 20 July)

One of the longest-running festivals of its type, the Fiddler’s Green Festival in beautiful Rostrevor is far more than just a music performance festival. It’s jam-packed with dozens of music-related events and happenings and makes for a friendly focal point for any visit to the area in high summer. Lovers of folk, traditional, blues, country and classical music are all well catered-for. This easy going festival can be enjoyed by everyone, even those happy just to soak up the free music, culture and atmosphere. The festival includes a number of highlights each year including The Festival Folk Club which hosts a line-up of internationally acclaimed artists and The Acoustic Stage in An Cuan.

We hope this information proves helpful. Check this space regularly for exciting updates on local festivals and events. We hope you have a brilliant time exploring County Down.

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Aardman presents Lloyd of the Flies Wetland Bug Hunt

Comber

Address

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, 78 Ballydrain Road, Comber, County Down, BT23 6EA

Telephone
02891874146

info.castleespie@wwt.org.uk

Type

Type:

Family Fun

Dive into the wonderful world of wetland insects with Lloyd and his new friend Dart the dragonfly at WWT Castle Espie.
Lloyd and friends will join our own cast of wetland minibeasts. Follow the trail to help Lloyd and tour guide Dart the dragonfly…

Dates

From:

5 Apr 2025to1 June 2025Open 10:00 - 17:00

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Scarva Band Concerts

Scarva

Address

8 Main Street, Scarva, County Down, BT63 6LS

Telephone
028 3752 9644

info@visitarmagh.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Live Music

Scarva Bandstand concerts will take place at the Bandstand, Scarva each Sunday from 3-4pm starting Sunday 6 April and running weekly until Sunday 28 September. There will be no concert on Easter Sunday, 20 April. Admission is free, and limited…

Dates

From:

6 Apr 2025to28 Sept 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
'The Story of Newry' Walking Tour

Newry

Address

Newry Town Hall, Bank Parade, Newry, County Down, BT34 1DQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 78 0929 3893

info@tumblingpaddy.com

Price
Price £12.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Tour

Join local storyteller and tour guide Sinead Rice McAleavey for an engaging and imaginative walking tour through the heart of Newry City. This unique guided experience brings the rich tapestry of Newry’s heritage to life.

Dates

From:

3 May 2025to27 Sept 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Price £12.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Finnebrogue Forage

Downpatrick

Address

26 Killyleagh Road, Downpatrick, County Down, BT309BL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4410 3104

gowild@finnebroguewoods.com

Price
Price £60.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Nature

Rob will safely guide you through you the rules, principles and background of foraging, kit & safety, plant and tree ID. This experience is immersive with hands on learning involving walking and exploring the Woods with Robs guidance and expert eye.

Dates

From:
11 May 2025Open 10:00 - 16:00
From:
15 June 2025
From:
28 June 2025Open 10:00 - 16:00
From:
12 July 2025Open 10:00 - 16:00
From:
2 Aug 2025Open 10:00 - 16:00
From:
24 Aug 2025Open 10:00 - 16:00
From:
6 Sept 2025
From:
28 Sept 2025Open 10:00 - 16:00

Price
Price £60.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Echoes of the Wild - Sound Bath in the Woods

Downpatrick

Address

Finnebrogue Woods, 26 Killyleagh Road, Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 9BL

Telephone
+44 (0) 7792 925 128

info@thesoundhealingspa.com

Price
Price £25.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Wellbeing

Step into a world where nature's symphony becomes your escape. Our 'Echoes of the Wild' sound escape offers an unparalleled experience the rejuvenates your mind and soul. This unique experience, set within Finnebrogue Woods, creates an auditory…

Dates

From:
12 May 2025

Price
Price £25.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Pots, Petals & Pizza Evening

Ballynahinch

Address

Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, BT24 8PT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9756 6100

info@montaltoestate.com

Price
Price £50.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Workshop

Join us in The Café at Montalto for a delightful evening celebrating two perfect pairings - petals and pizzas!

Dates

From:
16 May 2025Open 18:30 - 20:30

Price
Price £50.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Melodies of Spring: An Evening at Castle Ward

Strangford

Address

Castle Ward, Strangford, County Down, BT307BA

Telephone
+442844881204

castleward@nationaltrust.org.uk

Price
Price £35.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Live Music

Experience an evening of poetry, music, and history at Castle Ward. Stroll the gardens, enjoy an after-hours house tour, and unwind with Celtic Grace's harp, flute, and poetry.

Dates

From:
17 May 2025Open 18:00 - 21:00

Price
Price £35.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
International Guinness Blues on the Bay Festival

Warrenpoint

Address

Warrenpoint Beach, Warrenpoint, County Down, BT34 2BY

bluesonthebay@hotmail.co.uk

Type

Type:

Festival

Picturesque Warrenpoint annually plays host to some of the world's leading blues and jazz performers who are heading to the County Down town.

Dates

From:

21 May 2025to27 May 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Guided Garden Walks - Spring Edition

Newtownards

Address

Mount Stewart - National Trust, Portaferry Road, Newtownards, County Down, BT22 2AD

Telephone
028 4278 8387

mountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

Nature

Come and join a member of the Gardens Team on a tour which will look at seasonal highlights from late winter and spring, including trees, flowering shrubs and bulbs.

Dates

From:
21 May 2025Open 13:00 - 15:00

More Info
Behind the Scenes: Transport Store Tour

Holywood

Address

Ulster Transport Museum, 153 Bangor Road, Cultra, Holywood, County Down, BT18 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9042 8428

info@nationalmuseumsni.org

Price
Price £10.20 to £29.75 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Tour

Would you like to get behind the scenes of NI's Transport and Industry Store? See inside this treasure trove of automotive, aeronautic and industrial collections that highlight the social, industrial, and sporting history of this part of the world.

Dates

From:
21 May 2025Open 18:30 - 19:30
From:
18 June 2025Open 18:30 - 19:30
From:
23 July 2025Open 12:30 - 13:30
From:
21 Aug 2025Open 18:30 - 19:30
From:
29 Oct 2025Open 12:30 - 13:30

Price
Price £10.20 to £29.75 Per Ticket

More Info
Downpatrick Racecourse Fixtures

Downpatrick

Address

24 Ballydugan Road, Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 6TE

Telephone
+44 (0)28 44 612054

marketing@downpatrickracecourse.co.uk

Type

Type:

Sport

Enjoy a fun day out with family and friends at Downpatrick Racecourse with our upcoming fixtures this season. Indulge in the thrill of live racing following by live music.

Dates

From:
23 May 2025Open 15:30 - 20:30
From:
14 June 2025Open 11:45 - 18:45
From:
15 June 2025Open 12:00 - 17:15
From:
14 July 2025Open 12:00 - 18:00
From:
10 Aug 2025Open 12:30 - 17:00
From:
25 Aug 2025Open 12:30 - 17:30
From:
19 Sept 2025Open 12:30 - 17:45
From:
10 Oct 2025Open 12:30 - 17:30

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
Newcastle Food & Drink Tour

Newcastle

Address

Throughout Newcastle, Newcastle, County Down, BT33 0EX

Telephone
+44 (0) 330 137 4046

Price
Price £50.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Tour

Join local tour guide, Mairead Sweeney for this three hour Food & Drink Tour of Newcastle, County Down. This tour is designed for all those who are passionate about food and drink and enjoy getting to know the town's people and it's history.

Dates

From:
24 May 2025Open 10:45 - 14:00
From:
28 June 2025Open 10:45 - 14:00
From:
26 July 2025Open 10:45 - 14:00
From:
23 Aug 2025Open 10:45 - 14:00

Price
Price £50.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Homes in Focus: Drumnahunshin Farmhouse

Holywood

Address

Ulster Folk Museum, 153 Bangor Rd, Cultra, Holywood, County Down, BT18 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9042 8428

info@nationalmuseumsni.org

Price
Price £13.50 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Discover what life was like in the Drumnahunshin Farmhouse in the early 1900s with the Folk Museum's Senior Curator of History. Please note this event is now fully booked.

Dates

From:
24 May 2025Open 11:30 - 12:30

Price
Price £13.50 Per Ticket

More Info
Sea Bangor

Bangor

Address

Bangor Seafront, Quay Street Car Park and Eisenhower Pier, Bangor, County Down, BT20 5ED

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9127 0069

bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Festival

Celebrate the City of Bangor’s rich maritime heritage with family fun activities, entertainment for all, delicious food and live music.

Dates

From:

24 May 2025to25 May 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Bank Holiday BBQ & Local Talent

Ballynahinch

Address

Montalto Estate, Spa Road, Ballynahinch, County Down, BT24 8PT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9756 6100

info@montaltoestate.com

Price
Price £8.40 to £25.20 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Family Fun

Join us in The Walled Garden, on May Bank Holiday, for a day full of entertainment and food in the perfect surroundings.

Dates

From:
26 May 2025Open 11:00 - 15:00

Price
Price £8.40 to £25.20 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Weave Willow Flower Supports

Helen's Bay

Address

The Walled Garden, 47 Craigdarragh Road, Helen's Bay, County Down, BT19 1UB

Telephone
07704456109

info@thewalledgardenhelensbay.com

Price
Price £85.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Craft

Step into the heritage beauty of Old Mill House for a magical day of willow weaving with talented willow artist Heather McDermott. Add rustic charm to your garden by creating handcrafted willow supports that are practical, sustainable solutions for…

Dates

From:
31 May 2025Open 10:00 - 16:30

Price
Price £85.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Harry Clarke - The Irishman Whose Stained Glass Windows Will Blow Your Mind!

Killyleagh

Address

23 High Street, Killyleagh, County Down, BT30 9QF

Telephone
07841337734

info@sirhanssloanecentre.co.uk

Price
Price £5.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Historical Talk by Author & Historian Clive Scoular

Dates

From:
4 June 2025Open 19:00 - 20:00

Price
Price £5.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Downpatrick Camino Walk

Downpatrick

Address

The Saint Patrick Centre, 53A Market Street, Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 6LZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4461 9000

conference@saintpatrickcentre.com

Price
Price £50.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Tour

St Patricks Way Camino Walk - Downpatrick, guided walk.

Dates

From:
7 June 2025Open 09:00 - 15:00
From:
5 July 2025Open 09:00 - 15:00
From:
9 Aug 2025Open 09:00 - 15:00

Price
Price £50.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Explore The Walled Garden

Ballynahinch

Address

Montalto Estate, Spa Road, Ballynahinch, County Down, BT24 8PT

Telephone
02897566100

info@montaltoestate.com

Price
Price £8.40 to £25.20 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Nature

This summer, step into the beauty of our Walled Garden where our Head Gardener will be on hand to chat, answer your gardening questions, and share some of the garden's most intriguing details.

Dates

From:
8 June 2025Open 10:00 - 15:00

Price
Price £8.40 to £25.20 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Sir Hans Sloane Centre Curator Tours

Killyleagh

Address

23 High Street, Killyleagh, County Down, BT30 9QF

Telephone
07841337734

info@sirhanssloanecentre.co.uk

Price
Price £7.50 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Tour

Combined tour and talk about museum artefacts relevant to Sir Hans Sloane and 18th century life as well as our botanical prints and garden.

Dates

From:
11 June 2025Open 11:00 - 12:00
From:
16 June 2025Open 11:00 - 12:00
From:
7 July 2025Open 11:00 - 12:00
From:
21 July 2025Open 11:00 - 12:00
From:
30 July 2025Open 11:00 - 12:00
From:
4 Aug 2025Open 11:00 - 12:00
From:
11 Aug 2025Open 11:00 - 12:00

Price
Price £7.50 Per Ticket

More Info