The town has been blessed with beautiful churches and great schools as well as a neighbourly and kindly community. It is home to some of the country’s best sporting talent as well as being the birth place of talented musicians.
From the town’s much-missed fast food outlets, its key landmarks, to the annual May Fair festival, here are 10 things you may only understand if you come from Ballyclare.
5. Ballyclare Town Hall
Ballyclare Town Hall is without doubt the main landmark in Ballyclare. A focal point in the centre of The Square, the iconic building has hosted key events throughout the town's history and many blossoming relationships started at the venue's dances. Photo: JOHN TAGGART
6. Classic eateries
Ballyclare residents have been blessed over the years with an abundance of cafes and fast food outlets. Some have them have gone down in local folklore and are sadly no longer operating. A 'chippy tea' from Taras or the Pop In, a Chinese takeaway from the Happy House or the New Sun Ho or sitting in for a meal in The Chimes, Falstaffs or the Pig n Chicken were some of the favoured eateries. Photo: Google
7. Ballyclare Comrades
Founded by soldiers returning from the horrors of World War I, Ballyclare Comrades are the only Newtownabbey-based team in the NIFL setup. The club has experienced highs and lows over the past 104 years, but with a passionate fanbase, a recently formed women's team and a top-six finish in the Championship a real possibility this season, supporters look set to be attending games at Dixon Park for generations to come. Photo: Contributed
8. The big festive switch on
The big Christmas switch on events from years gone by. During the 1990s it seemed like the whole community turned out to see celebrities such as then Northern Ireland manager Bryan Hamilton, Rhino from The Gladiators or Shane Richie coming to the town to do the countdown and help get the festivities in full swing. Street entertainers would amaze the crowds, while Santa Claus made an appearance and helped bring some festive cheer. Photo: Love Ballyclare