Flash Harry to headline festival finale show on Saturday, July 25, following an action-packed week of events

The Big Splash Festival began over 20 years ago but has now grown to become the Big Splash Triathlon and River Festival.

Set on the banks of the River Bann, the Festival features a week of family fun organised by the offices of the Portglenone Enterprise Group and sponsored by Mid and East Antrim Council and local businesses.

The events kick off on Monday, July 20 with a soap box derby.

Providing your over 18, your Soap Box has steering, back brakes, you’re wearing a helmet and you have an “A” Level in lunacy you’re welcome to join the line-up for the Convery’s Commercials Soap Box Derby at Mull Park for the 7.30pm start (don’t forget to register before July 17).

On Tuesday, July 21, there will be five-a-side football at the First Presbyterian Grounds and there’s a Family Camp Night in the grounds of Portglenone Monastery complete with Camp Fire Songs and Games.

Wednesday, July 22 sees the The Big Splash Challenge sponsored by “Party Time Events” take place, featuring a canoe race from 6.30pm with markers and obstacles and general mayhem!

Mid and East Borough Council are sponsoring a Vintage Vehicle Cavalcade from the Hawthorne Inn to the Town Square from 6.30pm on Thursday, July 23.

And at the Church of Ireland Hall and Portglenone Community Mens’ Shed there will be a Local Village and Crafts Exhibition. And as if that’s not enough enjoy the Farrier Display and the Street Buskers, or try the World Cup Rugby Hunt behind the PEG offices.

On Friday, July 24, Portglenone Forest Park will host a Teddy Bears’ Picnic from 6.30pm, supported by Dynamic Audio and Visual. This will be followed by a Magician in the Square before the Ceili-Ceilidh kicks off in the same location.

The final say of the festival will see water activities from 11am, the Waterways Ireland Triathlon at midday, Bouncy Castles, Face Painting and a Food and Craft market.

There’s plenty to entertain all before the big concert at the Marina starring Flash Harry, the ultimate tribute to Queen.

They’ve filled the Odyssey, the Grand Opera House, played Theatres and Festivals all over the country and even appeared in the Royal Albert Hall - but they’ve never played Portglenone before!

Come along for the best ever Big Splash concert with one of the finest acts in the country.

There’ll be a full supporting show hosted by DJ & Compere Brian Moore. Tickets for this show are £10. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For full details of registering to participate in the activities or for tickets for the concert please visit www.bigsplashriverfest.com