Brendan Keane, Rosemary and Monica Hynes, Jack Derwin and Miss Mini, a three year old chesnut 203 pony, who won Pony of the Fair at Ballinasloe Fair last weekend.

Ballinasloe Fair to feature fireworks display and motorbike stunt show

The annual Ballinasloe Fair and Festival is proving to be a spectacular success once again, with large crowds turning out to enjoy the brilliant sunshine and vibrant atmosphere of events already this week.

The traditional horse fair took place on Sunday and Monday, and will continue on Saturday next. However, the fair is not only about horses and to make the most of this vibrant time in Ballinasloe, the local festival committee has organised an array of festival activities that will take place from Thursday, October 5 to Sunday, October 8. The primary focus of the committee is to provide free outdoor entertainment for the community and visitors, creating a festival atmosphere that welcomes all to Ballinasloe.

The Food, Fashion & Fun Night will take place in the Shearwater Hotel on Thursday, October 5 with an evening dedicated to culinary delights and fashion trends. Local vendors and designers will showcase their talents, offering a fantastic blend of gastronomy and style. Celebrity Chef Derry Clarke and Galway Bay FM’s Ollie Turner will headline the event.

On Friday, October 6 the skies over Ballinasloe will light up with a breathtaking fireworks display, a visual spectacle that promises to leave spectators in awe. The night will also feature a range of children's entertainment, ensuring that families can enjoy the festivities together.

For music enthusiasts, the festival soundstage will come alive on Saturday, October 7 with a diverse lineup of performers. The highlight of the music events will be an outdoor concert featuring Spring Break, Ireland's premier 80’s tribute band.

For those with a love for animals, the Dog Show on Sunday, October 8 is a must-see event. It's an opportunity for proud pet owners to showcase their furry friends and for animal lovers to admire the bond between humans and their canine companions.

Adrenaline junkies will be catered for with a motorbike stunt show. The heart-pounding performances of talented stunt riders will leave spectators on the edge of their seats. For those who appreciate the charm of the past, the Vintage Show is a delightful trip down memory lane. Classic cars, antique tractors, and vintage memorabilia will be on display, inviting nostalgia and a sense of wonder. The festival will also include a thrilling fun fair that promises non-stop excitement. There will be a horse sale on Saturday, October 7.

Chairman of the local festival committee Mal Croffey said: "The Fair is an exceptional event for those in the horse industry. It's not just about making deals; it's about the camaraderie and the thrill of discovering a horse with untapped potential. You never know when you might stumble upon the next champion here."

The primary focus of the Ballinasloe Festival Committee is to create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that brings the community together. The emphasis is on hosting free outdoor events that allow residents and visitors to connect and celebrate the town's rich culture.

The organisers would like to thank Ballinasloe Credit Union, Galway County Council, Supermac’s, Fox McFadden Fun Fair, Gullanes Hotel, Shearwater Hotel for their unwavering commitment to making the Ballinasloe Fair and Festival a success year after year.