Big Splash Festival returns to Portglenone with vintage rally, movie night and family fun day

Families, vintage vehicle enthusiasts and movie lovers are being invited to Portglenone later this month as the popular Big Splash Festival returns with three days of community events fromThursday 23 July to Saturday 25 July.

The annual FREE festival promises something for all ages, with organisers planning a programme that includes a vintage vehicle rally, outdoor movie screenings and a free family fun day centred around Portglenone Marina.

The celebrations have already begun, with this year’s festival getting an early start through a 5-a-side football tournament held at the Marina on 13 June, where Cullybackey Blues FC lifted the cup after defeating Bellaghy Town FC in an exciting final.

Vintage Rally opens the festival

The official programme begins on Thursday 23 July with the ever-popular Vintage Rally, which regularly attracts owners of classic cars, vintage tractors and agricultural machinery alongside large crowds of spectators.

The rally will assemble at the Hawthorne Inn before setting off at 6pm on a route through Portglenone, finishing at the Marina.

Once the vehicles arrive, visitors will have the opportunity to view the collection up close while refreshments are served in the festival marquee.

Organisers say the evening has become more than just a vehicle display, providing an opportunity for people from across the area to catch up with friends and neighbours in a relaxed community atmosphere.

Outdoor cinema returns on Friday

The festival continues on Friday 24 July with Movie Night in the marquee at Portglenone Marina.

Two screenings have been scheduled to cater for different age groups, running from 4pm to 6pm and again from 7pm to 9pm.

Families are encouraged to bring blankets and wear comfortable clothing to enjoy the “home from home” cinema experience. Free popcorn will be available, while sweets and drinks can be purchased during the event.

Family Fun Day rounds off the weekend

The festival concludes on Saturday 25 July with the Family Fun Day, taking place between 11am and 3pm at Portglenone Marina and the Community Centre.

Visitors can expect a wide variety of family attractions, including face painting, bouncy castles and animal encounters, alongside plenty of additional entertainment throughout the day.

A barbecue and refreshments will be available, while local community organisations will also showcase and sell handcrafted products.

A festival celebrating community

Now firmly established as one of Portglenone’s annual summer highlights, the Big Splash Festival brings together local organisations, volunteers and families for a weekend focused on community spirit and shared experiences.

With all three events open to the public, organisers are encouraging residents and visitors alike to come along and enjoy what promises to be another lively celebration at the Marina.

For more information and event updates, organisers are encouraging people to visit The Big Splash Festival Facebook page ahead of the weekend.