The historic Ould Lammas Fair will take over Ballycastle from 22–25 August, bringing four days of entertainment that blend age-old traditions with family-focused attractions and an evening fireworks finale. The Causeway Coast and Glens town’s streets and seafront will host a packed programme of events intended to draw local people and visitors alike.
Tradition alongside contemporary entertainment
Organisers have lined up a variety of attractions designed to appeal across generations. The opening day will feature a Heavy Horse Show and parade, a Vintage Vehicle Display, street theatre and seafront live music, with a fireworks display scheduled to end proceedings at 9.30pm. Across the weekend and into the following week, visitors can expect a mix of traditional trading, live music, food and family activities.
- Saturday 22 August – Heavy Horse Show and parade; Vintage Vehicle Display; street theatre; live seafront music; fireworks at 9.30pm.
- Sunday 23 August – Seafront Music Stage performances including Eoghan Quigg and Chloe Mac, plus evening bands.
- Monday 24 and Tuesday 25 August – Traditional trading returns, with traders lining the streets and Fairhill Street hosting horse-trading demonstrations.
Markets, music and longstanding customs
The Naturally North Coast & Glens Market will showcase artisan crafts and local produce throughout the event, while a Street Food Village and Family Fun Zone will remain open late each evening so visitors have ample time to browse and sample. Performers already confirmed for the Seafront Music Stage include Eoghan Quigg and Chloe Mac, while bands such as Dusty Windowsills and All Folk’d Up are due to play on The Diamond later in the weekend.
Traditional trading is central to the fair’s identity. On the final two days, hundreds of traders will occupy Ballycastle’s streets and Fairhill Street will continue the town’s historic horse-trading practice. Attendees can also look forward to horseshoe demonstrations, busking stations and a mobile animal farm.
“The Ould Lammas Fair is a much-loved part of Ballycastle's identity and a highlight of the summer calendar for residents and visitors alike. Its unique combination of centuries-old traditions, local traders, entertainment and family activities creates an atmosphere that is unlike any other event,”
The mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins, added she was delighted to welcome people to the town and encouraged both returning visitors and newcomers to roam the four-day programme. The mayor’s comment underscores the fair’s role as a civic and cultural touchstone in the local calendar.
What to expect and practical notes
Those planning to attend can expect a traditional fair atmosphere where historic customs such as horse trading sit alongside contemporary festival elements like live bands and street food. The combination of longstanding ritual and new attractions appears designed to keep the event relevant to a wide cross-section of the public.
| Dates | Highlight |
|---|---|
| 22 August | Heavy Horse Show; Vintage vehicles; fireworks |
| 23 August | Seafront Stage: Eoghan Quigg, Chloe Mac; evening bands |
| 24–25 August | Traditional trading; horse-trading on Fairhill Street |
For those who come for the nostalgia, the horse demonstrations and the market stalls will provide the customary draw. For younger visitors and those seeking a festival feel, the music stage, street food and family zone will be the main attractions. Either way, organisers are planning a four-day programme that leans into both the fair’s heritage and its contemporary appeal.
Attendance is expected to be significant; the town will be transformed for the duration of the fair as traders and entertainers fill Ballycastle’s streets and seafront. Visitors are advised to check local travel and accommodation arrangements in advance given the event’s popularity.
