Ballymena United throws open the gates for free family fun day at the Showgrounds
Football, family entertainment and the chance to meet Ballymena United’s newest signings will all be on offer when the club hosts a free community fun day at the Ballymena Showgrounds next month.
With free admission for everyone, the event on Saturday 4 July is designed to bring supporters, families and local residents together for an afternoon packed with activities both on and off the pitch as excitement builds ahead of the new season.
Visitors can look forward to face painting, bouncy castles, a BBQ and tuck shop, making it a family-friendly day out for children and adults alike.
The club shop will also be open throughout the event, giving supporters an opportunity to pick up Ballymena United merchandise before the new campaign gets underway.
Football action and new faces
The day will also provide fans with an early glimpse of the squad as Ballymena United welcomes its new signings to the Showgrounds.
Supporters will have the chance to meet players, take selfies and collect autographs during a special meet-and-greet session.
On the pitch, there will be two matches for fans to enjoy.
Ballymena United will first face Strabane Athletic, with kick-off scheduled for 12.30pm.
That will be followed by a second fixture against Loughgall, which gets underway at 3pm.
The back-to-back games are expected to give supporters an early taste of what lies ahead as preparations continue for the season ahead.
Live music to round off the day
The entertainment will continue long after the final whistle.
The Des Allen Suite bar will open from 12 noon, providing a social hub throughout the afternoon, before live music begins at 4pm.
The combination of football, family activities and live entertainment is expected to create a festival atmosphere around the Showgrounds, with the club encouraging both regular supporters and newcomers to come along.
A day for the wider community
Ballymena United Director Philip Kyle said the event is intended to celebrate the club’s connection with the local community.
He said:
“This is a day for the whole community to come together and enjoy everything that’s great about Ballymena United.
“There’s something for everyone, from the kids on the bouncy castles to the supporters cheering on the team and enjoying the live music afterwards.
“We can’t wait to see the Showgrounds packed out and buzzing.”
Event information
• Date: Saturday 4 July
• Venue: Ballymena Showgrounds
• Admission: Free
• Ballymena United v Strabane Athletic — 12.30pm
• Ballymena United v Loughgall — 3pm
• Des Allen Suite bar open from 12 noon
• Live music from 4pm
The event offers a chance for local families to enjoy a free day out while supporters get their first opportunity to connect with the squad ahead of the new season.
With football, entertainment and community spirit all on the programme, Ballymena United is hoping to welcome a large crowd through the gates of the Showgrounds.
