Ballyclare May Fair marks 270 years with major festival programme and US-themed celebrations

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Members of the Newtownabbey Softball Club, Robert Robinson, Steven Rovertson, Kieran Grimley, Oonagh O’Flaherty and Alexandra Kelly

Ballyclare is preparing to host one of Northern Ireland’s most historic and wide-ranging community festivals next month, as the Ballyclare May Fair returns for its 270th year with a packed eight-day programme of events, road closures, and town-wide celebrations from 16–23 May 2026.

Organised by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and sponsored by the Ulster-Scots Agency, this year’s landmark event adopts the theme “USA 250”, recognising the deep-rooted connections between Ulster-Scots heritage and the United States over the past 250 years.

The milestone festival is expected to transform the town into a busy hub of activity, bringing significant footfall, community participation and economic activity across Ballyclare, with a broad mix of traditional attractions, live entertainment and new themed experiences.

Historic fair returns with full town programme

The Mayor, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick with members of Ballyeaston Vintage Tractor Club, Myles and McKenzie Williams, David Surgenor and David Lyle

At the heart of the week-long celebration is the iconic Horse Fair on Main Street, a centuries-old tradition that continues to define the May Fair’s identity and draw visitors from across Northern Ireland.

Alongside this, a wide programme of returning favourites will run throughout the week, including the Mayor’s Opening Parade, markets, tea dances, funfair attractions and the Ballyeaston Vintage Tractor Gathering.

A dedicated Opening Party featuring music from local performer Colin Graham will launch the festivities, while additional highlights include a classic car show and the ever-popular It’s a Knockout competition, which is expected to attract strong participation from local teams and organisations.

Extensive music and entertainment line-up across the town

Music and live entertainment will play a central role throughout the festival, with a diverse programme designed to appeal to a wide audience.

Events include the Ballyclare Community Concert, Praise in the Square, the May Fair Day Concert, Borough Bands and Ballads, and the Downtown Country Roadshow hosted by radio presenter Deputy Dave.

Local venues will also be actively involved, with live music scheduled in pubs including The Grange Bar and the Sportmans Inn, extending the festival atmosphere into the evenings and supporting the local hospitality sector.

Family events and community participation at the core

Local Talent, Colin Graham taking centre stage at the Square on Saturday 16 May

Families and younger visitors are set to benefit from a broad range of interactive and accessible events running across the week.

These include Baby Rave sessions, Family Friendly Raves, the Pet Show, Sensory Kids NI activities, a Minibeast Hunt, the Duck Race and continuous funfair attractions.

Town-centre competitions such as the Best Dressed Window Competition and Odd Man Out are expected to drive engagement among local businesses and residents, contributing to a strong visual and community presence throughout Ballyclare.

Community-led events and sporting fixtures expand the programme

In addition to council-led activities, a series of community-organised events will take place, highlighting local involvement in the festival.

These include Ollardale Community Group’s Tea Dance and Table Quiz, the Holestone Young Farmers Tug of War Competition, and a Community Safety Fair hosted by ROC Ballyclare.

Sporting events will also feature prominently, with the Co. Antrim Harriers organising both a 10k race and a 5k fun run, adding a competitive and participatory element to the week.

USA 250 theme introduces new cultural experiences

A key feature of the 2026 programme is the introduction of American-themed events aligned with the “USA 250” focus.

Visitors will be able to attend an Ulster-Scots American cooking demonstration led by Paula McIntyre, as well as an American Hamely Sup and Scran and a cocktail tasting experience.

The festival will culminate in an All-American Party in the Park at Six Mile Water Park, where tribute acts, softball games, inflatables, face painting and themed catering will bring the week to a close in a large-scale outdoor celebration.

Road closures confirmed to facilitate festival activity

To accommodate the scale of events, a number of road closures will be in place across Ballyclare.

Harrier Way will close from Tuesday 12 May at 10.00pm until Saturday 23 May at 11.00pm to support festival infrastructure and activities.

Main Street will also be closed temporarily for the Horse Fair on Tuesday 19 May, from 8.30am until 5.00pm, with disruption expected in the town centre during these hours.

Opportunities for businesses and community groups to take part

Organisers have emphasised the opportunities available for local businesses, groups and individuals to actively participate in this year’s May Fair.

Businesses are encouraged to enter the American-themed Best Dressed Window Competition, while both businesses and community groups can take part in the Odd Man Out contest and the Mayor’s Parade.

Individuals and organisations can also register for It’s a Knockout, which remains one of the festival’s most visible and competitive events.

Mayor highlights significance of milestone celebration

Ballyeaston Vintage Tractor Club pictured with Doagh singer/songwriter, Colin Graham who will be appearing at the Vintage Tractor Gathering and May Fair Opening Party

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said:

“The Ballyclare May Fair is a cornerstone of our calendar and a celebration of everything that makes this town and community so special.

“This year’s 270th anniversary, alongside the USA 250 theme, gives us a unique opportunity to honour our heritage while bringing people together for a truly memorable week of events.

“I would encourage everyone to get involved, take part and enjoy all that the festival has to offer.”

Public information and how to get involved

Residents, visitors and participants can access full programme details, ticket information, booking requirements and road closure updates online or by phone.

For tickets, bookings, road closures or to get involved visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/BallyclareMayFair or call 0300 123 7788.

The Ballyclare May Fair 2026 is expected to once again draw large crowds, combining historic tradition with modern festival experiences in one of Northern Ireland’s longest-running community events.