Ballymena Town Centre bursts into colour with Easter Colouring Competition success!

Ballymena’s town centre is awash with vibrant hues this Easter, thanks to an overwhelming response to the Ballymena Business Improvement District’s (BID) Easter Colouring-In Competition.

Over a thousand dazzling entries from local primary school pupils have transformed shop windows and business premises into a gallery of colourful creativity.

The competition, which invited young artists from schools across the area to showcase their talents, has been hailed as a resounding success by the BID.

The colourful creations, described as “nothing short of stunning,” are currently on display in various locations around Ballymena town centre until Thursday, 24 April.

BID has encouraged the public to embark on an “Easter trail” to admire the artworks, which are hosted by a range of local businesses.

Among the participating schools, Ballymena Primary’s entries can be viewed at TravelMax, while Braidside Integrated’s work adorns The Braid. Broughshane Primary School’s contributions are showcased in McKillens of Ballymena’s Kids Department, and Buick Memorial’s artwork brightens the windows of The Mortgage Shop on Church Street. Further displays include Carnaghts at Gemini Beauty, Carniny at Fairhill’s former Claire’s Accessories unit and Camerons Restaurant, and Dunclug at Wyse Byse. Gracehill Primary’s creations are featured at Corner Bakery, K&G McAtamney’s, and Outdoor Adventure, with Kells & Connor’s work also at Outdoor Adventure’s Church Street windows. Kirkinriola’s entries are displayed at the Tower Centre, opposite the toilets, while St. Comgall’s and St. Paul’s artworks grace the right and left sides of Camerons Restaurant, respectively.

“We have been absolutely overwhelmed by the response to this year’s competition,” Emma McCrae, Ballymena BID Manager, said. “The creativity and enthusiasm from the children have truly brought a burst of joy to our town centre. We can’t wait to visit the schools after the holidays to present the winners with their prizes.”

Emma extended heartfelt thanks to the businesses that opened their premises to host the displays, noting that their support was “hugely appreciated.”

The initiative not only celebrates local talent but also underscores the collaborative spirit of Ballymena’s business community.

As the Easter holidays continue, the BID is urging residents and visitors to explore the town, shop locally, and enjoy the Easter atmosphere. “We encourage everyone to come into Ballymena, take in the displays, dine at our fantastic restaurants, and make the most of what our town has to offer,” Emma added.

“Most importantly, we wish everyone a very Happy Easter!”