Ring of Gullion Autumn Festival

Celebrate Culture, Creativity, and the Changing Season

Step into the heart of the Ring of Gullion this September and experience a festival full of charm, culture, and creativity. From Thursday 11 to Saturday 20 September, the Ring of Gullion Autumn Festival brings together heritage, music, crafts, and the beauty of the season in one unforgettable programme.

A Celebration of Heritage and Culture

Discover the rich traditions of South Armagh through guided foraging walks, traditional Irish singing workshops, and storytelling sessions. Each event offers a personal, authentic experience that connects you to the land and its people.

Giant Experiences Await

Feel the power of oral tradition, walk through ancient landscapes, and enjoy lively music sessions that capture the true spirit of the Ring of Gullion AONB.

Creative Crafts and Mindful Moments

Meet local artists, try your hand at traditional crafts, and slow down with mindful activities. All of this takes place in the stunning Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) — part of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark.

Festival Highlights: 11–20 September 2025

• Thurs 11 – Traditional Irish Singing Session with Sinéad Murphy Smyth & Pearse McMahon
• Sat 13 – Foraging in the Foothills
• Sun 14 – Heritage of the Hut: Stories and Traditions of the Ring of Gullion
• Thurs 18 – Mad for Trad: Live Traditional Music Session with CCE An Bonnán Buí
• Fri 19 – With the Banjo on My Side: The Life and Times of Margaret Barry
• Sat 20 – To Ballymacdermot and Back: Guided Walk to Ancient Monuments
• Sat 20 – Reeling and Writing: Creative Writing Workshop

Experience the Magic

This is more than a festival — it’s a chance to see, hear, and feel the heartbeat of this beautiful corner of Ireland. Whether you come for the music, the crafts, or the crisp autumn air over Slieve Gullion, the Ring of Gullion Autumn Fest promises memories that will last long after September ends.

Where to Stay

Turn your visit into a short break. Stay in the Ring of Gullion AONB and enjoy warm hospitality, fresh local food, and views of rolling hills and ancient monuments. Wake up to the majestic Slieve Gullion and explore walking trails, heritage sites, and scenic drives between events. Find places to stay in the Ring of Gullion here.

This festival is proudly supported by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council through the Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership.