• Important Notice
  • As of 1 April 2024, all tickets and bookings will be subject to booking fees.
  • Important Notice
  • May Bank Holiday Arrangements
  • Accessibility Options
  •  

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Logo

Ballyclare May Fair

In 2024, the Ballyclare May Fair will be returning to tradition with a vibrant celebration to captivate the community and revive the cherished customs of years gone by.

Sat, 18 May - Sun, 26 May

Celebrate the Best of Ballyclare

Celebrate the Best of Ballyclare
 

Come together with your families and friends and enjoy the Funfair, Family Fun Day, It’s a Knockout, Music and Fireworks.

Foodies will be in their element with An Ulster Scotch History of Whisk(e)y, Artisan Markets as well as Cooking and Craic with Paula McIntyre.

Culture lovers will appreciate the Ulster Scots Language Workshops and Cèilidh, Craft Demos and Historical Walking Tours.

With a Vintage Car Show, Soap Box Derby and Mayor’s Parade - this event truly has something for everyone!

Soap Box Derby

Ballyclare's famous Soap Box Derby is returning on Thursday 23 May at 6:30pm.

We can't wait to see all the weird and wonderful soap box carts and their characters race down the Ballyeaston Road. Who will lift the prestigious Yellow Hat this year?Sign up your team now!
E. Ian.Cameron@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or click the link below.

Download Expression of Interest Form

It's a Knockout! 

This thrilling and competitive favourite is back on Friday 24 May at 6pm

Grab your strongest or quickest colleagues, friends or family and get yourselves down to The SixMile Leisure Centre for the ultimate battle of strength and endurance, but also belly laughs! Sign up your team now!
E. Ian.Cameron@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or click the link below.

 

Download Application Form

Ballyclare needs you

Ballyclare needs you
 

We are currently looking for two enthusiastic local volunteers to join the Ballyclare Working Group to help contribute to the success of future Ballyclare May Fairs.

The annual Ballyclare May Fair dates back to the 18th century, and is a highlight of the town’s year.

The fair is organised by a working group made up of Councillors and volunteers from the local community, and meets for one evening each month from September until May.

To express your interest E. louise.palmer@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
In your email please outline why you would like to join the working group and what skills and experience you could bring to it.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Join our Working Group

Golden Oldies

We want your old Ballyclare May Fair photographs to reminisce years gone by. 

Include year, event, those in the photo etc.
Please provide a minimum of one photo and maximum of three
I Consent:

Get Involved in the May Fair Opening Parade

The May Fair Opening Parade is taking place on Saturday 18 May from 1pm - 2pm

We are encouraging all local community groups, church groups, sports teams, special interest groups and schools to participate in the Ballyclare May Fair Opening Parade by coming along with home-made banners, in uniform or dress for your team/sport/organisation etc.   

To apply, all you have to do is submit this form below by 5pm on Friday 3 May 2024 and someone will be in touch. 

If applicable
If applicable
If applicable