Ulster Covenant Festival 2025: Ballymena celebrates Unionist heritage with week of events

Ballymena is embracing its unionist heritage with the Ulster Covenant Festival 2025, hosted by the Apprentice Boys of Derry Ballymena & District Amalgamated Committee.

Running from Monday, 22nd September to Saturday, 27th September, the festival, centred at Braidwater Hall, 32 Waveney Road, Ballymena, BT43 5BA, offers a rich programme of events, including lectures, a table quiz, a traditional Lambeg drumming match, and the Annual Ulster Day Parade.

The festival commenced yesterday with a symbolic event allowing attendees to sign their own copy of the Ulster Covenant, setting the tone for a week of cultural and political engagement.

A Vibrant Start to the Festival

The festival began on Monday, 22nd September, with an event titled Sign Your Own Copy of The Ulster Covenant.

This opening activity invited participants to engage directly with the historical document that remains a cornerstone of unionist identity, reinforcing its significance in Ballymena’s heritage. The event drew a diverse crowd, keen to connect with the region’s past and its enduring legacy.

Engaging Discussions on Unionism

The festival continues on Tuesday, 23rd September at 7:30pm with a flagship lecture and debate, “The State of The Union”, held at Braidwater Hall. The event featured a distinguished panel of unionist speakers, including:

•  Mervyn Gibson, Grand Secretary of the Orange Order

•  Jon Burrows, North Antrim UUP MLA

•  Jim Allister KC, North Antrim TUV MP

•  Russell Watton, Coleraine PUP Councillor

•  Paul Frew, North Antrim DUP MLA

•  Lee Reynolds, Former Belfast DUP Councillor

•  Jamie Bryson, Activist and Blogger

Compered by David Graham, former Rangers FC Director of Communications, the event will provide a platform for robust discussion on the future of unionism in Northern Ireland.

“This event offers a unique opportunity for robust discussion on the future of our unionist heritage,” said a spokesperson for the organising committee.

Attendees were encouraged to book seats in advance via the North Ballymena Rangers Supporters Club Facebook page, by emailing northballymenarsc@yahoo.com, or by contacting a committee member.

Exploring Ballymena’s Historical Role

On Wednesday, 24th September at 7:30pm, the festival hosts a lecture by Bro. Quincey Dougan titled “Ballymena & The Ulster Covenant”.

This event delves into Ballymena’s historical connection to the Ulster Covenant, offering insights into the town’s pivotal role in unionist history.

Tea will be served, and the event is open to all, providing an accessible opportunity to learn about local heritage.

“This lecture is a chance to reflect on Ballymena’s proud place in the story of the Ulster Covenant,” the committee noted.

Community Fun with a Table Quiz

The festival takes a lighter tone on Thursday, 25th September at 7:30pm with a Table Quiz organised by the North Ballymena Rangers Supporters Club.

Priced at £5 per head, with teams of up to six people, the quiz aims to raise funds for Braidwater Hall.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together, test their knowledge, and support a worthy cause,” the committee stated. All proceeds will support the upkeep of the hall, a vital community hub in Ballymena.

Lambeg Drumming Tradition

On Friday, 26th September at 8:30pm, the Ulster Covenant Memorial Lambeg Drumming Match will fill Braidwater Hall with the resonant beat of Lambeg drums.

This open competition welcomes all drummers, offering prize money and awards. Light refreshments will follow, fostering a festive atmosphere.

“The Lambeg drumming match is a highlight of the festival, showcasing a proud tradition that resonates deeply with our community,” the committee said.

Annual Ulster Day Parade

The festival concludes on Saturday, 27th September with the Annual Ulster Day Parade.

Gathering at Braidwater Hall at 1:30pm, the parade will depart at 2:00pm, following a route through Ballymena:

Waveney Road, Galgorm Road, Pentagon, Lower Mill Street, Wellington Street, Church Street, Bridge Street, Larne Road Link, Harryville Bridge, Henry Street, Gilmore Street, Queen Street, and returning to Waveney Road.

All Apprentice Boys are invited to participate, with spectators encouraged to line the streets.

“The parade is a proud moment for our community to come together and celebrate our shared heritage,” the committee added.

A Week of Heritage and Unity

The Ulster Covenant Festival 2025 offers a diverse programme that blends historical reflection, political discourse, and community celebration. From the symbolic act of signing the Ulster Covenant to the stirring rhythms of Lambeg drums and a parade, the festival explores Ballymena’s deep-rooted unionist identity.

Event Details and Participation

All events are held at Braidwater Hall, 32 Waveney Road, Ballymena, BT43 5BA.

Booking is recommended for the State of The Union lecture due to limited seating. The table quiz requires a £5 entry fee, while the lecture, drumming match, and parade are free to attend or participate in, with the parade open to all Apprentice Boys.

For bookings or further details, contact the North Ballymena Rangers Supporters Club via their Facebook page or email northballymenarsc@yahoo.com.