HISTORY will come to life at the Irish Game Fair in Co Antrim this weekend.
The event, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary, will host a spectacular re-enactment to mark the 220th anniversary of the Battle of Antrim in June 1798.
Actors will play the part of the United Irishmen, who were led by Henry Joy McCracken, and their British foes at Shane's Castle on the shores of Lough Neagh.
Fair Director and history enthusiast Albert Titterington said the public can expect some thrilling action when the battle gets under way.
“The name of Henry Joy McCracken has lived on and has enormous resonance in Ireland, yet I suspect all too few people know much detail about that far off, yet important, period of history – this weekend is the time to find out more,” he said.
Mr Titterington said the fair will feature other “time travel” events with visitors given the opportunity to walk through a Viking village and Medieval Marketplace before taking in the thrilling spectacle of a Jousting tournament.
Visitors to the all-Ireland fair will also be introduced to a range of country sports including fly-casting, archery and clay pigeon shooting.
Food lovers will also be treated to masterclasses and tasting sessions with the Great Game Fairs’ celebrity chef Emmett McCourt.
Albert Titterington said: “We’re all about celebrating the very best of country sports, rural life and lifestyles, past and present.”
The Irish Game Fair will be open to the public from 10am – 6pm today and tomorrow at Shanes Castle, Antrim.
For more information go to www.irishgamefair.com.
