James Nesbitt, a Bugatti Veyron and a Ferrari Enzo headline Clarke’s biggest-ever Ballymena charity car show

Broughshane actor James Nesbitt will join a spectacular line-up of supercars, family attractions and fundraising activities this weekend as Clarke prepares to stage its biggest-ever Charity Car Show in Ballymena.

The much-loved local event returns on Saturday 27th June at Clarke HQ on Raceview Road and organisers believe this year’s show could be the largest and most ambitious since it first launched three years ago.

With a Bugatti Veyron, Ferrari Enzo and multiple Lamborghinis already confirmed, the appearance of the internationally recognised Cold Feet and Bloodlands star adds another major attraction for visitors from across Northern Ireland.

Organisers say the combination of supercars, entertainment, food and one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable actors promises an unforgettable family day out in support of a vital cause.

“Supercars, face painting, food, stalls and Jimmy Nesbitt — it’s an unrivalled combo,” organisers said.

Rare supercars set to draw huge crowds

The growing Ballymena event has earned a reputation for attracting vehicles rarely seen together anywhere on the island of Ireland, and this year’s line-up is expected to be its strongest yet.

Among the headline attractions already confirmed are:

• Green Ferrari Enzo

• Lamborghini Countach

• Lamborghini Murciélago

• Bugatti Veyron

Organisers are also hopeful that the Ferrari F40, one of the standout crowd favourites from last year’s event, could make a return appearance.

The event has rapidly grown into one of the most anticipated motoring gatherings in the local calendar, attracting enthusiasts, collectors and families alike.

Supporting families affected by dementia

While the cars may grab the headlines, the event’s purpose remains firmly focused on fundraising for Alzheimer’s Society, Clarke’s chosen charity partner for 2026.

Dementia remains the UK’s biggest killer, claiming more than 76,000 lives in 2024 alone, while the number of people living with the condition continues to rise.

Funds raised from the event will support research, care services and practical support for people living with dementia and the families caring for them.

For many families across Ballymena and County Antrim, dementia is a condition that touches everyday life, making local fundraising efforts particularly significant.

Full programme for the day announced

The event opens early for vehicle exhibitors before welcoming the public from 10am via Silverwood Business Park.

The schedule for the day includes:

• 9:00am — Gates open for car show entrants

• 10:00am — Gates open to the public via Silverwood Business Park

• 11:30am — Best in Show judging begins

• 1:00pm — Best in Show awards presentation

• 1:30pm — Charity raffle winners announced

• 2:00pm to 3:00pm — Vehicle rollout and departure parade

Entry costs £10 per adult, while children under 12 are admitted free of charge.

Food, entertainment and family attractions

Alongside the supercars, visitors can enjoy a packed programme of family entertainment throughout the day.

Attractions include:

• Bucks Burgers

• Jim’s Ices

• Awesome Coffee

• Chemworx Premium Car Detailing stall

• Charity raffle featuring original artwork by Tony Upson

• Fantasy Facepainting from 10am until 1pm

Stall vendors, refreshments and family activities are expected to help create a festival atmosphere throughout the event.

Public parking will be available through Silverwood Business Park, while accessible parking will also be provided on site.

‘The community spirit gets stronger every year’

Michael Clarke, founder of Clarke, said the event continues to exceed expectations year after year.

“The Car Show has grown into something we’re genuinely proud of,” he said.

“Every year the cars get more spectacular, the turnout grows and the community spirit gets stronger.

“We’re honoured to be supporting Alzheimer’s Society this year — it’s a cause that touches so many lives, and we’re determined to make as big an impact as we can.”

With a Hollywood star from Broughshane joining one of the strongest supercar line-ups ever assembled locally, organisers are hoping the third edition of the Clarke Charity Car Show will become its most successful fundraiser yet.