Launched in 1999, the festival attracts thousands of music loving locals and tourists with many coming from across the globe to visit the renowned festival.
Back then some 25 acts played across the late May Bank Holiday weekend in selected bars, with three showcase gigs in the Balmoral including Big Jack Johnston and the Oilers (USA), Nine Below Zero (UK) and the Tam White Shoe String (UK).
Also at the first festival Bennetts hosts Gaye McIntyre and His Band, while there was a New Orleans BBQ and Jazz Night with Patsy Melarkey and the Apex Jazz Band.
Now, the festival runs across seven days and attracts 70 blues and jazz gigs, music and jam sessions. Amongst the acts performing in 2025 are Mary Coughlan, renowned as Ireland’s greatest jazz and blues singer, and Ája, who replicate in incredible detail the original recordings of the legendary Steely Dan.
The 2025 festival runs from May 21-27. For more information visit the Blues on the Bay website.
Can you recognise any of the faces in any of our pictures? Do you have any memorable moments from festivals held in years gone by? Let us know in the comments!
6. Retro Reporter
Local councillors, sponsors and organisers pictured at the 2004 Festival launch. Photo: Newry Reporter
7. Retro Reporter
Kelly Napper of Guinness UDV at the launch of the fourth annual Guinness Blues on the Bay Festival in 2002. Photo: Newry Reporter
8. Retro Reporter
Terry McLoughlin, Corporate Sponsorship Manager of Guinness UDV Northern Ireland during a visit to Warrenpoint for the launch of the Guinness Blues on the Bay Festival in 2002. Ian Sands of the 'Bay Blues Project' and Kerry Napper, Guinness UDV Girl, meet up to play a tune for the festival. Photo: Newry Reporter