Ballymena to host Mid & East Antrim Pride events later this month

Mid & East Antrim Pride has announced details of its 2026 programme, with a series of events planned across Ballymena on Saturday June 20.

The annual event will include a morning community programme at The Braid Arts Centre, a parade through Ballymena town centre and an evening after-party event.

Organisers say this year’s theme will be “Louder, Prouder, Stronger”, with community groups, local organisations, businesses and individuals expected to take part throughout the day.

Programme begins at The Braid

The day will begin with Pride Morning at The Braid Arts Centre from 10am until 1pm.

According to organisers, the free event will include community stalls, information stands and entertainment, alongside opportunities for members of the local LGBTQ+ community and supporters to meet and engage with local groups.

Attention will then shift to the town centre parade, which is due to assemble at the Ardeevin entrance via Waveney Road before starting at 2pm.

The parade route will pass through central streets in Ballymena, with organisers aiming to maximise visibility and accessibility for participants and spectators.

Organisers say community groups, organisations, allies and local residents are all being encouraged to participate.

Evening events planned across town

Following the parade, the official Mid & East Antrim Pride after-party will take place at The Front Page Bar later that evening.

The free-entry event is expected to include live entertainment, DJs and performances.

A number of additional Pride-themed events and promotions are also expected to take place at venues and businesses across Ballymena during the day and evening.

Mid & East Antrim Pride organisers said the annual event continues to provide a platform for LGBTQ+ people and allies across the borough.

Speaking ahead of the event, organisers said:

“Mid & East Antrim Pride 2026 is about being louder in our visibility, prouder in our identity, and stronger together as a community.

“This year’s programme reflects the growth of Pride in our area and the incredible support from local people, groups and businesses.”

Event details

• Date: Saturday June 20, 2026

• Pride Morning at The Braid: 10am–1pm

• Parade assembly point: Ardeevin entrance via Waveney Road

• Parade start time: 2pm

• After-party venue: The Front Page Bar

• Entry: Free

For updates and participation details, organisers are encouraging people to follow Mid & East Antrim Pride on social media ahead of the event.

This year’s programme marks the latest Pride event to be held in Ballymena as organisers continue efforts to expand participation and visibility across Mid and East Antrim.