Join The Dolmens this summer as we celebrate Lúnasa, the ancient Celtic festival of harvest, community and connection, with a rich programme of music, storytelling, traditional games, nature conservation, food heritage and outdoor gatherings across Castlewellan and beyond.
From 31 July to 15 August, the Four Fires Festival invites people of all ages to come together in the spirit of friendship, shared culture and Meitheal – the traditional Irish practice of neighbours and communities working together for the common good. Enjoy storytelling and song, a lively community céilí, traditional Fidcheall competitions, a Blaeberry Sunday walk on Slieve Croob, hands-on environmental action in the Peace Maze, intercultural food sharing and the ever-popular farm visits.
Whether you’re interested in local history, traditional music, nature, heritage crafts, food traditions or simply meeting new people, there is something for everyone. Events are free to attend, offering opportunities to learn, celebrate and reconnect with the rhythms of the land, the traditions of Lúnasa and the enduring spirit of Meitheal. We thank all the volunteers who have made these events possible.
Come and help us kindle the Four Fires of community, culture, nature and celebration as we mark Lúnasa 2026 together.
| Date/Time | Activity | Venue | Tickets |
| 31st July 2.00-3.30 pm |
Connecting with Lunasa An afternoon of song, storytelling and good conversation as we explore the meaning and traditions of Lúnasa, the ancient Celtic festival of harvest, community and gratitude. Share memories, hear local stories and enjoy in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Followed by a game of Fidcheill outside in the upper square. |
Castlewellan Library and the upper square | Get your free tickets |
| 31st July 7.30 – 10.00 pm |
One Big Beautiful Ceili A night of music, laughter, and good craic! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a total beginner – everyone is welcome! Come for the jigs, stay for the craic. Music by our local Lunasa ceili band. Caller – Mary McGuigan |
Maginns Bar, Back room | Get your free ticket |
| 1st August 10.30-12.30 |
Lunasa Frolics Games, Dancing, Fun. Fidcheil Championships. |
Castlewellan Community Allotments | N/A |
| 2nd August 10:00am – 1pm |
Traditional Blaeberry Sunday Walk Step into a cherished local tradition with our Blaeberry Sunday Walk on the slopes of Slieve Croob. Discover the history and folklore of Blaeberry Sunday while enjoying the beauty of one of the Mournes’ most iconic landscapes of Slieve Croob. |
Meeting point: the car park Dreehill car park, Slieve Croob. | Get your free tickets |
| Monday 3rd August Wednesday 5th August Friday 7th August |
Meitheil Sessions @The Peace Maze Save the Yews! Get hands on and help remove invasive species in the Peace Maze in advance of the 25th Anniversary this September. Meeting at the main carpark. Morning session – 10am to 1pm |
The Peace Maze Castlewellan Forest Park | Get your free tickets |
| Wednesday 5th August 4.30pm |
Amazing marine life Discover the amazing marine life along our coastline with Dr Gavin Grant, Marine Community Engagement Officer with Geopark. We’re delighted to welcome Gavin back to share his knowledge and passion for our seas and coastline.You’ll also find out how you can get involved in protecting our marine environment through simple community actions such as litter picks, wildlife surveys, and water quality testing, with training provided for volunteers. |
Castlewellan Library | Get your free ticket |
| Thursday 15th August 6.30-9.00pm |
Harmony Evening Connecting Generations Food and Culture get together Exploring Food from Different Cultures. Participants will be asked to bring a dish, share family recipes and stories of the history of the food, sharing memories, language and heritage. The recipes will be put together and printed to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Peace Maze.Castlewellan Community Allotments are growing more than food – we’re growing community too. |
Castlewellan Community Allotments | Get your free ticket |
| Saturday 8th August 10 am |
Meitheil Session @ Carole’s Farm Experience the traditional spirit of Meitheal as we come together to care for the trees at Carole’s Farm during the season of Lúnasa. This hands-on community gathering celebrates cooperation, stewardship of the land and the shared work that has long been at the heart of rural life. In keeping with the traditions of hospitality and harvest, participants will be treated to simple fare of potatoes and butter, shared in good company after the work is done. |
Meet at the Park and Share on Bann Road for 10am | Get your free tickets |
This project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)
