Totally packed programme of events at this year's May Fair

As well as the usual amusements, stalls and continental market, there’ll also be music, dancing, exhibitions and much, much more.

Here’s just a taste of some of the spectacular line-up of shows, competitions and events on offer...

n Tiny tots will love the Teddy Bears’ Picnic in the War Memorial Park on Tuesday 25, and bonnie babies will want to get to the town hall early on Wednesday 26 for the annual Bonnie Baby competition.

n For older children, Sixmilewater Park will be alive with preparations for the May Fair Parade on Saturday 29 from 10am. Anyone wishing to make final preparations for the parade can get their face painted or make something to wear in the parade in the arts and crafts tent. Also that day, action lovers will be able to burn off their energy with the bungee jumpers, bouncy castles, sumo suits, gladiator duels and party slides. And from 3pm, the sound of drums will echo through the park when The Gathering Drum will have even the non-musical beat in time to the rhythm.

The May Fair parade would not be possible without the support of Dennisons, where the parade departs from and returns to. And this year Asda have made a very generous donation to sponsor the street dancers in the parade.

n Traditionalists will be flocking to hear Trevor Dixon entertain the crowds on May Fair Day (Tuesday 25) from 7pm with a performance in the Square. But the May Fair is also coming right up to date this year with performances from some of the most popular and current tribute acts celebrating Lady GaGa and Pink in the Town Hall car park on Saturday 29 from 7pm.

Country & Western fans won’t be able to stop their toes tapping at the Country Jamboree on Thursday 27 in the Town Hall. Compered by John Cooke, with music by Sierra, it promises to be a great night. And not forgetting the ‘tweenies & teens’ who love Hannah Montana and High School Musical - bring your cheerleading outfits to sing and dance along to your favourite songs from the hit musicals at the Sixmile Leisure Centre on Saturday 29 from 2.30pm.

Don’t forget that these concerts are all FREE to attend, so why not try something different this May Fair?

n Local traders are supporting this year’s May Fair with the first ever Treasure Trail around the town - can you find the 10 horses in the shop windows and crack the code to be in a chance of winning? Download the entry form from www.ballyclaremayfair.com or the council website, or alternatively pick one up from the Town Hall. Just make sure to return it to the Treasure Trail stand in Sixmilewater Park on Saturday 29 by 4pm. Of course the traditional Odd Man Out will keep everyone guessing and the Best Dressed Window competition will see the traders battle for glory to win the sought after prize.

n The Grange Bar is supporting the fair with a number of events this year, including the ever-popular Yard of Ale competition, the Ballyclare’s Got Country talent competition and the inaugural May Fair pool competition.

n A Heritage Day will take place in the War Memorial Park on May Fair Day when popular TV chef Jenny Bristow will be cooking up some traditional nifty nosh with a modern twist from 3pm. People will also have a chance to see the traditional crafts of pole turning, basket weaving and blacksmithing or taste the traditional local produce made by Asher’s Bakery.

n Why not cast a glance over the old May Fair photographs at the exhibition in the Town Hall or take part in Ballyclare Library’s Reminiscence Morning on Wednesday 26? The ever-popular War Years Remembered exhibition will also be running at Ballyclare Presbyterian Church hall throughout the fair.

n There will be bargains galore at the May Fair this year. The traditional stalls will be in the Square on May Fair Day and Saturday 29, adding to the atmosphere in the town centre. The hugely popular Continental Market returns to the grounds of the Town Hall on May Fair Day - tastebuds will be well and truly tantalised with all manner of exotic foods, including handcrafted cheeses, fresh breads and buns, crepes and hot food. And a range of local and world crafts will be on offer, so make sure to stock up on presents.

n Car boot sale lovers have the choice of two sales on Saturday 29 at Ballyclare High School and Ballyclare Primary School. And those seeking that special gift may find it at the Craft Fair on Saturday 29 in the Town Hall. Don’t forget that a number of local traders will have special May Fair offers and menus running during May Fair Week.

With so much to see and do, get yourself down to Ballyclare and join in the fun at this year’s May Fair. And remember, come prepared for the weather and make the most of it, rain, hail or shine!

n Full programme information can be downloaded from the new May Fair website designed by Simon McDowell - www.ballyclaremayfair.com. Programmes will also be available from the Town Hall.