Big crowds set for Ballinasloe Fair and Festival this weekend

The streets of Ballinasloe are getting ready to sparkle as the Ballinasloe Fair & Festival is set to kick off this weekend.

Taking place from Sunday, October 5 to Sunday, October 12, the fair will feature a huge variety of events for all ages to enjoy.

Ballinasloe Horse Fair is held annually in Ballinasloe, and is one of Europe’s oldest and largest Horse Fairs, dating back to the 18th century.

This festival is one of the most important social and economic events in the life of the town, which is renowned for horse and pony riding, show jumping and other equestrian activities which take place throughout the year.

The annual event attracts up to 80,000 visitors from all over the world, with many returning to the town year after year.

The fun fair by Fox & McFadden Fun FairDates will run all week in the Fair Green from Friday, October 3 to Sunday, October 12.

Competition will be in the air at Fair Green Sand Arena on Sunday, October 5, with the Pony and Horse Lunging Competitions and the Horse of the Fair Lunging Competition starting at 12.30pm.

A History & Heritage Evening will take place on Tuesday, October 7, in Gullane's Hotel. Marina Car Park will feature a dazzling fireworks display and live entertainment from 7pm on Friday, October 10, followed by Tug of War on Main Street at 9pm.

Saturday, October 11, is Country Fair Day, and will feature a Traditional Sheep Display on the Fair Green from 11.30am to 12 noon, and Mare & Foal Competitions from 12.30pm. Irish Country Music Singer Cliona Hagan will also be welcomed to the Ballinasloe Fair on Saturday, October 11, at 3pm.

There is a packed programme on Sunday, October 12, with a vintage show in association with Ballinasloe Vintage club on Dunlo Street from 10am, a baking competition in the Marquee on Dunlo Street from 11am, motorbike stunt shows taking place 1.30pm, 2.30pm, and 3.30pm, as well as Junior Baking & Craft Competitions, craft market, and a dog show with entries taken from 12 noon and the show starting at 1pm, all taking place in St. Michael’s Square.

For full details on all the events taking place across the week, go to: https://ballinasloeoctoberfair.ie