Ballymoyer Sunflower Festival 2026

Every July, a two-acre field on the Ballymoyer Road in south Armagh turns into a sea of yellow. Six hundred thousand sunflowers - planted by a local parishioner’s family and tended by the community - open to visitors free of charge, with a collection box at the gate for anyone who wants to give something back. All money raised goes directly to local and national charities, and the voluntary donations have consistently outstripped expectations: the inaugural 2023 festival raised £9,000 when the organisers had hoped for around £900. It suits anyone who enjoys being outdoors - families with small children, photographers, or people who just want a quiet walk somewhere genuinely beautiful.

What to expect

The field sits beside St Luke’s Church on the Ballymoyer Road, between Whitecross and Newtownhamilton. You can walk through the rows at your own pace, take as many photographs as you like, and pick a bunch of sunflowers to bring home - that is part of the point. There is no charge and no ticket to book; just show up and put whatever you can into the collection box as you leave. Charities that have benefited include the NI Air Ambulance, Dementia NI, Friends of the Cancer Centre, the Craigavon and Antrim Neonatal Units, and Ballymoyer and Belleek Parish Funds. The field typically stays open from around 10am daily and runs for two to three weeks, depending on the weather and how long the flowers hold. Check the Ballymoyer Parish Facebook page for the exact opening date and any closures closer to the time.

Getting there

Whitecross is a small village in south Armagh, roughly eight miles south of Armagh city. The farm is on the B135 corridor between Armagh and Newry - take the road through Whitecross towards Newtownhamilton and follow signs for the festival. There is no bus service to this part of south Armagh, so a car is needed. Roadside parking is available near the farm; arrive early on busy summer weekends to get a spot without difficulty.

While you’re in Armagh

The drive from Armagh city takes around 15 minutes, which makes it easy to pair the festival with a visit to the city itself - the two cathedrals, the Armagh Robinson Library, and Navan Fort (the ancient ceremonial site of Ulster) are all worth the stop. There is more to see in Armagh and across Co. Armagh.

Good to know

• Date: from Saturday 25 July 2026, opening at 10:00am daily
• Runs approximately 2 to 3 weeks, weather permitting
• Entry: Free - voluntary cash donations welcomed at the gate
• Pick-your-own sunflowers included
• Address: 71 Ballymoyer Road, Whitecross, Co. Armagh, BT60 2LA
• Check dates and any updates: ballymoyer.com or the Ballymoyer Sunflower Festival Facebook page