(L-R) Rebekah Keery (Michelle Johnston School), Winston Pinkerton (President, RSPBANI), Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper, Emma Barr (Field Marshal Montgomery), David Beggs (Major Sinclair Memorial), Leah McIlwrath (Michelle Johnston School)
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is set to host the RSPBA Northern Ireland Branch’s 70th Ulster Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships this week in Antrim.
The event will be held at the Northern Ireland Centenary Stadium, Antrim Forum, on Saturday 12 August, from 10am to 6pm.
Everyone is invited to go along and enjoy a day filled with outstanding musical performances, dazzling displays of Highland Dancing and the sound of bagpipes echoing through the air.
Get ready to witness an exhilarating open-air competition featuring approximately 45 vibrant Pipe Bands, 30 talented Drum Majors, and 55 graceful Highland Dancers. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage as these skilled performers take the stage, showcasing their passion and talent.
The excitement reaches its peak as the event culminates in a breath-taking Grand Finale and a Salute to the Chieftain. At the end of the evening the outstanding achievements of the participants will be acknowledged and the top performers will be awarded with their well-deserved prizes.
(L-R) Winston Pinkerton (President, RSPBANI), Leah McIlwrath (Michelle Johnston School), Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper, David Beggs (Major Sinclair Memorial)
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper said:
“I am delighted to welcome this event back to the Borough, bringing with it an audience from far and wide. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the fantastic Pipe Bands, Drum Majors and Highland Dancers in action once again. It is a great honour to have the role of Chieftain of the Day at this colourful spectacle.”
Admission is free with drum majors and bands competing from 11am and the Grade 1 bands performing around 3pm.
To ensure a hassle-free experience for all attendees, there will be a convenient park and ride service from The Junction Leisure and Retail Park to the Northern Ireland Centenary Stadium Car Park at Antrim Forum, running for the duration of the event.
This event is funded by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.