A Foodie and Music Lover’s Dream: Eats and Beats Festival in Newcastle

As summer fades and the crisp autumn air begins to settle, Newcastle, County Down, comes alive with one of the most anticipated events of the year—the Eats and Beats Festival.

If you’re a fan of live music, incredible food, and an electric festival atmosphere, then this food festival in Newcastle is the place to be.

A Feast for the Senses

Nestled along the stunning coastline with the Mourne Mountains as its backdrop, Newcastle provides a picturesque setting for a weekend filled with sensational flavors and unforgettable performances.

From the moment you arrive, the air is thick with the mouthwatering aromas of sizzling street food, freshly baked artisan goods, and the rich, earthy scent of craft beer and whiskey.

At the heart of the festival is the Food Pavilion where over 40 local and Northern Irish artisan producers showcase their culinary masterpieces.

From gourmet street food to decadent handmade chocolates, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Vendors such as Killeavy Castle Estate, Crawford’s Rock, and NearyNógs Chocolatiers offer a taste of Northern Ireland’s finest produce, while craft breweries like Whitewater Brewery and Shortcross Gin serve up refreshing drinks to complement the feast.

But food is just one part of the experience. Throughout the weekend, the Mourne Flavours Pavilion hosts a series of captivating cookery demonstrations.

Culinary legends like Jenny Bristow, Paul Cunningham, and Melissa McCabe showcased their skills, sharing secrets, and whipping up delicious local dishes right before your eyes.

The Soundtrack to an Unforgettable Weekend

Music lovers can dance their way through the festival with an eclectic mix of performances on two stages—the Homegrown Stage and the World Stage.

The Homegrown Stage, hosted in previous years by Ryan Hand, featured an impressive lineup of local talent, including Claudia Buckley, Reevah, and Brian Kennedy with the Uplifted Gospel Choir.

Meanwhile, on the World Stage, Ripton Lindsey set the scene for an international celebration of music, with acts like Manukahunney, Wilson Magwere, Swar Ahmed, and The Navigators of Sound bringing global rhythms to Newcastle’s vibrant festival.

The lively atmosphere, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the majestic Slieve Donard, creates an unforgettable experience that music lovers will cherish.

Whether you’re into folk, blues, or world music, there’s a sound for everyone.

If you enjoy discovering incredible music festivals in County Down, you might also want to check out Blues on the Bay in Warrenpoint, a celebration of blues music that brings a soulful vibe to the local scene on the last Bank Holiday in May.

Beyond the Festival: Explore Newcastle’s Hidden Gems

While the Eats and Beats Festival takes center stage, Newcastle itself has plenty to offer.

Stroll along the charming promenade, soak in the breathtaking views of the Irish Sea, or explore nearby hiking trails in the Mourne Mountains.

For those who love traditional folk music, the Fiddler’s Green Festival in Rostrevor in July is another must-visit event that celebrates the region’s deep musical heritage.

If you’re looking for more festival fun, don’t miss the Loughside Festival in Warrenpoint, where music, community spirit, and cultural festivities come together for a memorable celebration.

Plan Your Visit

The Eats and Beats Festival in Newcastle takes place on the first Saturday and Sunday of September , 2025, and best of all—it’s free!

The event is family-friendly, with activities and experiences suitable for all ages.

A Park and Ride service will be available from the Northfield site on the A50 Castlewellan Road, making access convenient for visitors.

For those eager to keep the festival spirit alive, local bars and restaurants will also be hosting live music sessions and special events throughout the weekend.

Be sure to stay tuned to Visit Mourne’s social media pages for the latest updates on schedules, set times, and important festival information.

A Celebration to Remember

The Eats and Beats Festival is more than just a food festival in Newcastle—it’s a celebration of everything that makes this coastal town so special.

From delicious cuisine and world-class music to stunning scenery and warm hospitality, it’s an experience that will leave you counting down the days until next year’s event.

So grab your friends, bring your appetite, and get ready for an epic weekend of Eats and Beats in Newcastle, County Down!