Carrickfergus prepares for siege as part of spectacular historical re-enactment!

One of the most colourful, historical re-enactment events of the year takes place on Bank Holiday Monday at Castle Green in Carrickfergus.

The annual re-enactment of Schomberg’s Siege marks an important milestone in the history of both the Castle and the town of Carrickfergus itself.

Organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, the FREE event takes place on Monday 26 August from 11am to 4pm, with the re-enactment beginning at 11.30am.

The showcase will include over 40 re-enactors from across the United Kingdom, all dressed in period costume, followed by a pageantry parade to meet King William at the pier.

Re-enactment groups involved in the event include North Irish Dragoons, Edinburgh City Guard (Scotland), Earl of Loudens (Scotland), Kragfergus, Minstrel Boys and CHRAG Carrickfergus all tied together by talented storyteller, Stephen Lalley.

The Siege of Carrickfergus artisan market will host over 14 speciality producers – including familiar favourites attending the Carrickfergus monthly artisan market alongside new local producers. The market offers a range of exciting products including baked goods, embroidered art, aromatherapy oils, hand-crafted homeware and tasty treats for your canine friends.

Keep the whole family entertained throughout the day with a range of entertainment including performers, an outdoor cinema showing ‘Brave’, face painting, a sensory play area, falconry displays, archery and a climbing wall!

All spectators will step “back in time” to experience the 1689 Siege of Carrickfergus Castle – as well as live cannon and musket firing, visitors will be able to wander around military encampments to peek at what life would have been like at that time in history.

The main firing period will be 12.30pm to 1.45pm, and with the exception of firing at the end of the event at 3.00pm, the rest of the event is considered as ‘quiet time’.

For further information, log on to www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/events