Ballymena 400: House of Commons recognises four centuries of pride as celebrations take place across town
The House of Commons in Westminster has marked the 400th anniversary of Ballymena's recognition as a market town – just as celebrations were taking place across the town itself.
North Antrim MP Jim Allister raised the anniversary among MPs as community celebrations and entertainment took place across the town yesterday, concluding with a major fireworks display.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Allister called MPs to join with him in celebrating the 400th anniversary of Ballymena.
He said that on August 25, 1626, King Charles I granted the charter for the town to the Adair family, which established Ballymena's identity as a thriving market town at the heart of County Antrim.
The MP also congratulated everyone who over the years made Ballymena a leading commercial hub and centre for successful businesses, including Wrightbus.
Commenting afterwards, Mr Allister said: "Today is a momentous landmark in the history of Ballymena. From the smallest of beginnings, the town, through hard times and good, has grown to become a renowned commercial hub, especially for independent traders, with accompanying manufacturing businesses of which Wrightbus is an enduring example.
"It is a place many are proud to call home and in which many, including my own children, have received excellent education with flourishing and notable schools - one of which, Ballymena Academy will celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2028.
"We have much to be proud of in Ballymena and let's together underwrite that for future generations."
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council had invited residents and visitors of all ages to take part in a programme of events on Friday, Saturday and Tuesday.
Speaking ahead of the event, Mayor Thomas Gordon, said: “Ballymena’s 400th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our town’s remarkable history whilelooking ahead to an exciting future. It will be fantastic to see families and visitors enjoying the birthday celebrations, with such a wide range of activities for all ages."
Yesterday’s celebrations began with a special storytelling session at 10.30am in The Mid Antrim Museum at The Braid where children enjoyed the ‘The tale of the Castle Cat and Golden Dragon’, a book commissioned as part of Ballymena 400 that tells the tale of Ballymena Castle and Master Adair.
From 11am to 2pm, Wellington Court in the town was transformed into a vibrant 'Birthday Bonanza party' featuring circus performers, puppet shows, face painting and cupcake and party hat decorating alongside interactive activities.
The town’s heritage was also reflected during a civic thanksgiving service in St Patrick’s Church of Ireland at 7.30pm, organised by the council and kindly hosted by the Parish of Kilconriola and Ballyclug.
Among those attending were His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell alongside Mayor Thomas Gordon.
The service was conducted by the Rector, Rev Rosie Diffin and the Rev Dr Jim Francis, with the Most Rev John McDowell, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, delivering the address.
Celebrations concluded in The People’s Park, with live performances as well as face painting, glitter tattoos, arts and crafts, a gaming bus, walkabout characters and a magician.