Weekend for great food and listening top music

27 August 2025

IT’S almost here.

Newcastle is bracing itself for the return of the popular Eats and Beats weekend festival which kicks off on September 6.

With two music stages, a wide range of local food vendors and a host of family-friendly activities, the packed weekend promises a vibrant mix of live music, local flavours and fun for all ages.

And as the countdown continues, festival goers can begin their culinary journey at the Mourne Flavours Pavilion, where the finest local produce will be on display.

Visitors can sample and purchase tasty treats while enjoying cookery demonstrations from celebrity chefs, including Melissa McCabe, Great British Menu NI winner in 2024, and Jenny Bristow, Ireland’s Good Food Ambassador, alongside local favourites such as Jonny Murphy – The Hungry Hooker.

For music lovers, the Newry, Mourne and Down Council festival offers two stages of entertainment.

The Homegrown Stage, hosted by Gemma Bradley, features acts including The Boo Radleys, Orwells84 and local favourites Reevah and The Four of Us.

On the World Stage — hosted by Ripton Lindsay — there’s diverse rhythms from Boye PapaGee & Colours Afrobeat, 353 Samba, Baile An Salsa and Havana Roots. Performances begin at 10am each day in Donard Park, offering something for every musical taste.

Alongside the cookery demonstrations, the Mourne Flavours Pavilion will showcase fresh breads and home-baked delights from Mrs C’s Home Kitchen, Mourne Food Adventures and Counter Culture Real Bread.

And Raymie’s Seafood Bar & Grill, The Whistledown Hotel and Montalto Estate will inspire visitors with signature dishes.

Complementing the food offerings, Killowen Distillery and the Avoca Hotel will present craft drinks and cocktails, making the pavilion a true celebration of local tastes.

Adding an interactive element in the pavilion, the Meet the Producers sessions will allow visitors to learn directly from NearyNógs, Counter Culture Real Bread, Killowen Distillery, Castlescreen Farm, and Whitewater Brewery, who will share recipes, cooking tips and sustainable food ideas, providing insight into the region’s thriving food scene.

Families are also well catered for with the Curious Minds experiences in Donard Park, as well as Castle Park activities including The Mourne Eye, Pedalo Swans and a Go-Kart Track, ensuring fun for visitors of all ages.

This year, Sensory Sessions will take place at the ADHD Hub Coffee Shop & Info Point at 2 Savoy Lane. From 9.30am until 2pm each day, a gentler festival experience can be enjoyed with quieter music, fewer crowds and no queues for visitors with sensory or access needs.

In the week leading up to the festival, visitors can also savour the flavours of Newcastle during Restaurant Week which starts on September 1, with exclusive offers served daily between 11am and 2pm and 5pm and 7pm.

Local eateries, set between the sea and the stunning Mourne Mountains, will highlight the best of regional produce, perfectly setting the stage for the festival weekend.

Beyond the main festival, Newcastle’s fringe events provide additional experiences, from live performances and food tastings to artistic displays throughout the town.

Whether indulging in local cuisine or enjoying the lively atmosphere, On the Fringe adds an extra spark to the Eats & Beats experience.

Council chairman Philip Campbell said the area is renowned for its award-winning food, drinks and music.

“The Eats and Beats Festival is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy delicious local dishes, live performances and family-friendly fun,” he said.

“This year’s festival also includes fringe events and unique experiences offered by local businesses, bringing Newcastle to life for all ages.”

The council chairman said Newcastle Restaurant Week is an integral part of this year’s celebrations and encourages visitors to stay longer.

He added: “Together, these events enhance our tourism offering, creating unique opportunities to connect with the local community, celebrate Newcastle’s vibrant culture and make lasting memories.

“From savouring delicious local food to enjoying live music or a fun-filled family weekend, the Eats & Beats Festival is the perfect way to experience everything this beautiful town has to offer.”

A park and ride will operate from the Northfield site at Carrigs Road outside the town where free parking will be available.

The park and ride route will be clearly signposted and open to all festivalgoers and available on both days between 9.30am to 7.30pm. Toilets, changing places and accessible facilities will also be located at the site.

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