Ballymena 400 celebrations to bring parade and festival atmosphere to town

Pictured with Mayor of Mid & East Antrim Borough, Councillor Jackson Minford are local musicians Rodney Beggs and ‘Lacey’.

Ballymena is preparing to celebrate a landmark moment in its history as the town marks 400 years since the foundations of the modern settlement were established.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has now unveiled a major programme of Ballymena 400 events for 2026, with organisers promising a year of community celebration, local history, family entertainment and shared reflection on how the town has evolved over four centuries.

The anniversary programme officially begins this month with events aimed at both younger residents and the wider community, before building towards a flagship day of celebrations in Ballymena town centre and People’s Park later in May.

The programme is expected to draw families, community organisations, youth groups and visitors into the town throughout the year, with council leaders describing the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate both Ballymena’s past and its modern identity.

Historic anniversary celebrations begin with family events

The first dedicated Ballymena 400 event for younger residents will take place at The Braid on Saturday 16 May from 10.30am until 12.15pm.

Children attending the morning session will take part in clay crest making workshops while also learning about the history of the Adair family, who arrived in the early 1600s and played a central role in establishing the foundations of the Ballymena known today.

The event combines hands-on creative activities with local history, helping younger generations connect with the story of how Ballymena developed over the centuries.

Council organisers say the wider Ballymena 400 programme has been designed to reflect both heritage and modern community life, with activities intended to appeal across all age groups.

Town parade and People’s Park celebrations planned

A major day of public celebration is planned for Saturday 23 May, when Ballymena town centre and People’s Park will host a large-scale programme of free entertainment and activities.

Festivities will begin with the Ballymena 400 Celebration Parade at 10.30am, featuring a colourful procession through the town centre involving community groups, youth organisations and sports clubs.

The parade is expected to showcase music, creativity and community pride, bringing together groups from across the borough as part of the anniversary celebrations.

Following the parade, celebrations will move to People’s Park from 12 noon until 4pm for a free family-focused event packed with entertainment and attractions.

Visitors attending the park celebrations can expect:

• Live music performances

• Face painting

• Circus skills workshops

• An artisan market

• A children’s fun fair

• A petting farm

• Barrel rides

• 17th century re-enactors

• A climbing wall

• A gaming bus

• Storytelling sessions

• Arts and crafts activities

The wide-ranging programme is designed to create a festival atmosphere in the town while reflecting both Ballymena’s heritage and its modern community spirit.

Mayor says anniversary reflects Ballymena’s evolving identity

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said the anniversary year would celebrate both Ballymena’s history and the people who continue to shape the town today.

He said:

“During 2026, we are looking forward to celebrating the inclusive, diverse community we have become over 400 years. From historic talks reflecting the determination of our forefathers to showcasing the fantastic people who shape Ballymena today – there truly is something for everyone.”

The Mayor said he was particularly looking forward to seeing Ballymena town centre transformed during the main celebration parade later this month.

“I am especially excited to see the town centre awash with colour and energy during the celebration parade before we gather in People’s Park for a vibrant programme of activities including live music and an artisan market,” he added.

Councillor Minford said the anniversary was an opportunity for communities across the town to come together and celebrate Ballymena’s continued growth over four centuries.

“Four centuries on, Ballymena continues to grow and evolve, but its strong sense of community remains at its heart. This year, we invite everyone to come together and celebrate this incredible anniversary!”

Year-long programme aims to celebrate Ballymena’s past and future

The Ballymena 400 programme forms part of a wider effort to celebrate the town’s history while encouraging community participation across generations.

Organisers say residents and visitors will have opportunities throughout the year to take part in events exploring local heritage, culture and community life.

The anniversary celebrations are also expected to provide a boost for Ballymena town centre by drawing increased footfall to public events, family activities and local attractions during the programme.

Everyone is invited to take part in the celebrations across the year as Ballymena marks one of the most significant milestones in its history.

For the full Ballymena 400 events programme, visit:

Ballymena 400 Programme