Stars, stripes and country hits as Cullybackey stages all-American Fourth of July festival

Cullybackey is set to swap County Antrim for Nashville and New York for an afternoon as an all-American community celebration arrives in the village on Saturday with live music, food, family entertainment and a packed programme of attractions.

The Cullybackey Community Festival, organised by Cullybackey Community Partnership, will take place on today Saturday, July 4, at Cullybackey College from 1pm until 6pm, bringing together tribute performances, competitions, craft stalls and activities designed to appeal to all generations.

Best of all, admission is completely free.

The event embraces the spirit of America’s Independence Day celebrations, with organisers promising an afternoon full of music, community spirit and festival atmosphere for local families and visitors alike.

A celebration inspired by America’s biggest holiday

Visitors can expect an American-themed experience featuring country music, line dancing, classic vehicles and entertainment throughout the day.

A major attraction will be a series of live tribute performances celebrating some of the biggest names in American music.

Taylor Swift fans will have the chance to enjoy a performance from Taylor NI, while country music lovers can look forward to sets inspired by Luke Combs, Shania Twain and Garth Brooks.

Alongside the live entertainment, there will be plenty to keep younger visitors occupied with free children’s activities running throughout the afternoon.

Face painting, games and family-friendly attractions will ensure the festival offers something for all ages.

Live entertainment takes centre stage

The festival programme begins shortly after the gates open and runs throughout the afternoon.

The entertainment schedule includes:

• 1.15pm – Shania Twain tribute performance by Trisha McCluney

• 2.15pm – Cullybackey Line Dancers

• 2.45pm – Donut Eating Competition

• 3.30pm – Luke Combs NI

• 4.30pm – The Garth Brooks Show

• 5.30pm – Taylor NI

The programme provides a strong country music flavour while also embracing some of America’s biggest contemporary stars.

Cars, crafts and competitions

Beyond the stage performances, festival-goers can explore a range of attractions across the site.

American cars and motorbikes are expected to prove popular with enthusiasts, adding to the event’s Stateside theme and offering visitors the opportunity to get up close to a range of vehicles.

A craft fair will showcase local makers and traders, while food vendors will provide refreshments throughout the afternoon.

Line dancing demonstrations and participation opportunities will add to the atmosphere, while the donut eating competition is expected to bring plenty of laughs and friendly rivalry.

Organisers say there will be “much, much more” taking place throughout the day, encouraging visitors to spend the full afternoon enjoying everything on offer.

Free shuttle bus to Arthur Cottage

As part of the day’s activities, a free shuttle bus service will operate to Arthur Cottage, allowing visitors the opportunity to explore one of the area’s best-known heritage attractions during their visit.

The additional transport offering helps connect the festival with wider attractions in the village and encourages visitors to make a day of their visit to Cullybackey.

Community celebration for all ages

The festival is being delivered by Cullybackey Community Partnership with support from a number of organisations and funding partners.

Organisers are encouraging residents from across Ballymena and beyond to come along with family and friends and enjoy an afternoon designed to celebrate community spirit as much as American culture.

With free entry, a packed entertainment schedule and activities running throughout the day, the festival is expected to attract visitors from across Mid and East Antrim and further afield.

For local families looking for something different this summer, Cullybackey College could become the closest thing County Antrim has to an American summer fair this Friday afternoon.

Event information at a glance

Date: Saturday, July 4

Time: 1pm to 6pm

Venue: Cullybackey College, Pottinger Street

Admission: Free

Entertainment: Taylor NI, Luke Combs NI, Shania Twain tribute, The Garth Brooks Show and Cullybackey Line Dancers

Additional attractions: Craft fair, food stalls, face painting, children’s activities, line dancing, donut eating competition, American cars and motorbikes

Additional transport: Free shuttle bus to Arthur Cottage