Louth lights up this Autumn with music, food and culture

County Louth is set to dazzle with a vibrant mix of festivals, live music, scenic outdoor adventures, and rich heritage.

Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, it’s the perfect time to get out and about and explore all that Louth has to offer.
Here’s a curated guide to some of the top experiences around the county this season:

Music & Festivals

-Fitzpatrick's Halloween Scarefest 2025 (10 October - 2 November): The ultimate one-stop Halloween destination for all the family. Fitzpatrick’s transforms inside and out with ghosts, ghouls, and things that go bump in the night.

- Lú Festival of Light, Drogheda (24–27 October): Landmark buildings transformed with large-scale light projections inspired by myth and history.

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- Adventure Lights at Skypark, Carlingford (25 October–3 January): A spectacular outdoor light display set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cooley Mountains.

- Drogheda Classical Music Series (October 2025–April 2026): A stellar season at St Peter’s Church of Ireland featuring violinist Ben Baker and pianist Daniel Lebhardt, rising Irish pianist Rowel Friers, and soprano Claudia Boyle performing alongside baritone Seán Boylan and acclaimed pianist Dearbhla Collins.

- Trad Nights Across Dundalk: Six evenings of live traditional music in venues including The Lumpers, The Bartender, and Corbetts, offering an authentic taste of local culture.

Food & Drink

- No. 3 Wine Bar and Restaurant, Collon: Seasonal menus, locally sourced ingredients, and expertly curated wines make this a must-visit destination for food lovers.

- Square, Dundalk: Led by Chef of the Year Conor Halpenny (Georgina Campbell Awards 2025), this contemporary restaurant showcases inventive Irish cooking with bold flavours, seasonal ingredients, and a relaxed, modern edge.

- The Clermont, Blackrock: Known for its “farm to plate” philosophy, menus crafted from the finest local ingredients, a modern-cool atmosphere, and premium service.

- A91 at The Spirit Store, Dundalk: Bringing the energy of the food truck indoors with innovative menus served inside one of Ireland’s most iconic music venues. Perfect with a pint in hand and live music in the air.

- Social, Bryanstown, Drogheda: A stylish neighbourhood restaurant and bar known for its vibrant atmosphere, creative modern Irish menu, and strong focus on local Boyne Valley produce.

- The Bay Tree, Carlingford: A long-established favourite renowned for its fresh, high-quality seafood and warm, welcoming atmosphere, with world-famous Carlingford oysters a proud staple on the menu.

Walking, Cycling & Outdoor Adventures

- Carlingford Lough Greenway: Newly extended and completed this September, the off-road trail from Carlingford offers walkers and cyclists a safe, sustainable way to explore Ireland’s east coast. Following the old railway line, it winds past grazing fields and wildflowers with breathtaking views of Carlingford Lough.

- Stephenstown Pond Nature Park: A perfect family day out with woodland walks, wildlife, a new playground, and picnic areas. Also home to the historic Agnes Burns Cottage, once the residence of Robert Burns’ sister.

- Ravensdale Forest, near Dundalk: Mixed woodland rising to the summit of Black Mountain (506 m). The forest features several waymarked trails, including the Táin Trail, the Ring of Gullion, and the short Ravensdale Loop.

Walkers can discover standing stones, bridges, and historic forest roads while enjoying panoramic views across the Cooley Mountains.

Heritage & History

- Monasterboice, just five miles north of Drogheda: Step back in time at this 6th-century monastic site, home to St. Muiredach’s Cross, Ireland’s tallest West Cross (7 m), a 100ft Round Tower, and the remains of two ancient churches.

Visitors can explore the graveyard, admire centuries of artistry, and soak up the atmosphere of a site that has stood the test of time.

- Proleek Dolmen: An iconic 5,000-year-old portal tomb set on the grounds of Ballymascanlon House Hotel, famed for its massive capstone and steeped in local legend.

Collette Moss, Senior Executive Officer at Louth County Council, said: “Autumn is a brilliant time to experience Louth.

"From the spectacular Lú Festival of Light to intimate trad sessions and world-class concerts, there is something here for everyone.”

For full listings, visitor information, and accommodation details, see www.visitlouth.ie