Eats & Beats is the true heart of culinary creativity, showcasing the region’s finest chefs, local producers, and sustainable food heroes. The food offering at Eats & Beats is a celebration of flavour and local produce set against the stunning backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. Visitors can explore a diverse range of food experiences, from homegrown specialities to global cuisine, bringing an exciting variety of flavours to Newcastle, Co. Down. Showcasing the very best of the region alongside international tastes, the festival highlights locally sourced ingredients and innovative cooking, with something to suit every palate. Whether sampling new world flavours or enjoying familiar favourites, the food experience at the Eats & Beats festival brings people together to savour, share, and indulge.
Mourne Flavours Pavilion
Home to the Cookery Demonstrations and Meet the Producers | Location: Donard Park
The Mourne Flavours Pavilion is a celebration of the region’s rich food heritage that brings together talented chefs, producers, and food enthusiasts for a series of live demonstrations and interactive experiences. Visitors to the Mourne Flavours Pavilion, located in Donard Park, can explore the diversity of local flavours, discover new ingredients, and gain insight into the stories behind the food. Whether sampling delicious dishes or watching culinary experts in action, the Mourne Flavours Pavilion offers a truly immersive taste of the region.
Cookery Demonstrations
The Cookery Demonstrations offer a dynamic and engaging showcase of the region’s culinary talent. Hosted by Paul Cunningham, these interactive sessions invite visitors to watch skilled chefs and food experts bring local ingredients to life through a series of inspiring demonstrations. Across the weekend, the programme features celebrated chefs including Jenny Bristow and Suzie Lee.
From seasonal dishes to creative cooking techniques, the programme highlights the quality and versatility of local produce while sharing practical tips and ideas. Whether you’re a passionate foodie or simply curious to learn something new, the Cookery Demonstrations provide an entertaining and informative experience at the heart of the festival.

Meet the Producers
The Meet the Producer programme offers visitors the chance to connect directly with the people behind some of the region’s local food and drink producers. Set within an inviting and engaging festival space, the programme brings together passionate producers from across Mourne Gullion Strangford and beyond, offering insights into their produce and inspiration. Through informal conversations, visitors can learn how products are created, discover the stories behind them, and celebrate the connection between producer, place, and plate. 
Producers Pavilion
Location: Donard Park
The Producers Pavilion offers a unique opportunity not only to discover but also to purchase some of the region’s finest food and drink. This vibrant space brings together local producers from across Mourne Gullion Strangford and beyond, inviting visitors to sample exceptional produce and engage directly with the people behind it. Featuring locally produced flavours, the pavilion provides the perfect chance to take home a taste of the region while celebrating the richness of its food heritage.
Come early to grab your seat, meet the chefs, and be inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Mourne Gullion Strangford.
