Ballymena 400: milestone anniversary celebrations light up People's Park

Crowds gathered on Tuesday, August 25 to watch the sky light up with colour, following live music and entertainment for all the family.

It came after a full day of celebrations, which began with young readers enjoying a special storytelling session in the Mid Antrim Museum at the Braid.

The Tale of the Castle Cat and the Golden Dragon introduces children to the history of Ballymena Castle.

The illustrated book was commissioned as part of the Ballymena 400 programme of events, commemorating 400 years since King Charles I signed the Charter granting the Adair family rights to hold a weekly market and two annual fairs in the town.

The birthday bonanza continued throughout the day with a lively party atmosphere in Wellington Court. The town centre location hosted circus performers, a magic show and much more – including a delicious birthday cake from Dougie’s Goodies.

The evening then saw the community come together for a civic service in St Patrick’s Church of Ireland, reflecting on the generations of people and events that have shaped the town.

Fittingly, given the significance of the royal charter transforming Ballymena from a small settlement to a thriving market town, the congregation were joined by King Charles III’s representative, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for County Antrim, David McCorkell.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, was also in attendance, having earlier taken in the celebrations across the town. “I am delighted so many people have been able to take part in the joyful celebrations marking this significant milestone for Ballymena,” he said.

“It’s particularly great to see so many young people getting involved, as the children of today are our tomorrow. And, of course, the long-standing members of the local community can reflect on what the town was like 50 or 60 years ago and how it has transformed.

“We will take forward the history, heritage and community spirit of the last 400 years as the town continues to grow and evolve, and we now look forward to a new century, a prosperous future and making new memories together.”

One resident of Ballymena who was among those celebrating was particularly delighted to be able to mark the historic occasion.

Jennifer Krieger, a New York native and ICU doctor, only moved to the town late last year. “I really enjoyed the recent America 250 celebrations,” she said. “But Ballymena has definitely gone one better with its 400th birthday! I only moved here in December, but I just love the area and Northern Ireland in general and how welcoming it has been. I hope to spend many more happy years in Ballymena.”