All roads lead to Castlewellan for ever-popular May Day Fair

24 April 2024

THE popular Castlewellan Fair takes centre stage on the May Day bank holiday and promises to be the best yet.

Between 9am and 5pm there will be a host of free family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained.

Organised by Newry, Mourne and Down Council, this year’s fair offers an even bigger choice of have-a-go attractions.

A range of traders will be in town selling their wares, with many of Castlewellan’s independent shops and businesses offering spring fair special offers.

There will be opportunities to browse the shops while enjoying live music, dance, children’s entertainment and a variety of outdoor games.

And this year there will be an Artisan market, with creators offering everything from knitwear, jewellery, paintings, woodcraft and photography, to some of the tastiest artisan food products and coffee.

Activities are located throughout the main street and on both the Upper and Lower Squares, adjacent to Castlewellan Library, formally known as The Market House, which is an iconic part of the town, home to market trading from bygone days until the present where traders sell their wares to the visiting public.

Ahead of the bank holiday event, council chairwoman, Valerie Harte, said the event has proven to be a very popular addition to the local authority’s events calendar and brings a great atmosphere to the town.

“We would love people to join us this year and enjoy a great family day out with us,” she added.

Some of the key activities taking place throughout the day on the stage in Castlewellan Lower Square with Irish traditional music will be provided by members from Comhaltas.

Other highlights also include a performance from local artist Colin Montgomery, with the fun continuing throughout the day with a range of family-friendly activities and entertainment.

New for this year is a special appearance by the Jenna Finnegan Dance Company, featuring young dancers.

Face-painting will also be available for any children who fancy getting into the May Day spirit.

Public car parking will not be available in the Upper Square for the duration of the fair, with free car parking available at the Bann Road.

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