Ballyclare May Fair 2025: A Week of Craic, Culture, and Fireworks

Dust off your wellies and mark your calendar because the Ballyclare May Fair is back from Saturday 17 May to Sunday 25 May 2025 – a full week of fun, tradition, and enough entertainment to keep even the grumpiest of uncles happy.

This isn’t just any fair; it’s a Ballyclare institution, dating back to the 18th century, when it was all about buying and selling livestock. These days, while the traditional horse fair still stands proud, the event has grown into a jam-packed celebration of music, food, competitions, and downright good craic. Whether you’re there for the live music, the classic car show, or simply an excuse to eat your body weight in fairground treats, there’s something for everyone.

A Grand Opening with the Mayor’s Parade

Kicking things off in style, the annual Mayor’s Parade rolls through the town on Saturday 17 May at 1pm. Expect a vibrant procession of local groups, businesses, and performers giving it their all as Ballyclare officially welcomes another year of its much-loved fair. It's the kind of grand entrance that even royalty would nod approvingly at.

A Full Week of Ballyclare Buzz

Now, let’s talk entertainment – and trust us, there’s plenty to go around. Whether you’re into vintage tractors or ceilidh dancing, baby raves or watching people hurtle down a hill in a soapbox, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Fancy a bit of friendly chaos? The "It’s a Knockout" competition will see teams battling it out in ridiculous challenges, all in the name of fun (and probably mild embarrassment). Meanwhile, the much-anticipated Soapbox Derby on Thursday 22 May promises thrills, spills, and the occasional wobbly homemade kart careering off course.

Got an appetite? You won’t go hungry, that’s for sure. The fair’s food markets and artisan stalls are back, featuring local delicacies, sweet treats, and an Ulster-Scots cooking demo from Paula McIntyre, who knows her way around a proper hearty dish.

Need a bit of culture? Step into the world of Ulster-Scots language and traditions, take in a historical walking tour, or test out your dancing skills at the Ulster-Scots Céilidh (just try not to trip over your own feet).

And if you’re one of those people who likes things that go vroom, don’t miss the classic car show and vintage tractor gathering – because nothing says “good day out” quite like admiring a well-polished engine.

The Fireworks Finale: Because Every Good Fair Needs a Bang

Now, we all know the best way to wrap up a week of festivities is with a sky full of fireworks – and Ballyclare May Fair delivers exactly that. On Sunday 25 May, after a final night of live music and celebration, the free fireworks display will top everything off.

It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to another year of fairground fun. Whether you’re standing in awe, snapping pictures for Instagram, or just enjoying the warm glow of a great night out, it’s bound to be a spectacular send-off.

Ready for the Ballyclare May Fair?

With a full week of family fun, music, food, competition, and of course, a dazzling firework finale, there’s no excuse to miss it. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the fair or a first-timer, one thing’s for sure – Ballyclare knows how to put on a show.

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