Northern Ireland

Auld Lammas Fair cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic

Crowds flock to the Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle. Picture by Mark Marlow
Crowds flock to the Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle. Picture by Mark Marlow

The Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle is the latest event to fall victim to the coronavirus pandemic.

Famed for selling traditional dulse and yellow man, the annual fair in the Co Antrim seaside town dates back to the 17th century and is believed to be the oldest on the island of Ireland.

The event, usually held on the last Monday and Tuesday of August, has been cancelled this year as the pandemic continues.

READ MORE: Thousands take to streets for Auld Lammas FairOpens in new window ]

Thousands of people visit the fair every year to visit hundreds of market stalls selling handmade art, crafts and local produce.

The event, which was established as a horse trading fair, marks the end of summer and the start of the harvest season. 

In recent years, horse riders have taken part in a point-to-point horse racing on Ballycastle beach.

Starting the horsey habit young at the Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle, Co Antrim. Picture by Mark Marlow
Starting the horsey habit young at the Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle, Co Antrim. Picture by Mark Marlow