Thousands expected in Ballina today for annual Heritage Day

THOUSANDS of people are expected to flock to the north Mayo capital of Ballina today for its renowned Heritage Day. The occasion is being made extra special this year as the town celebrates its 300th anniversary and there has been a remarkable response with all exhibitor and vendor licences completely sold-out.

There are a total of 83 vendors exhibiting on six streets across the town, namely Pearse Street, Bridge Street, O'Rahilly Street, Garden Street Upper and Lower and on the Farm Market Square.

24 musical acts are playing across the day on four stages: the Post Office Stage, the Lower Pearse Street Stage, the Bandstand and the Market Square Marquee, with the entertainment beginning at 11am.

With the streets expected to be throngs with people, the town will be closed off to traffic and diversions will be in place. All ring roads around the town will however remain open to traffic.

Motorists are also being advised that there will be no parking permitted on the streets in the town but public car parks will remain in use.

The weather is expected to be generally overcast for the day with a slight chance of some showery conditions.

All information on a hugely exciting day for Ballina is available at heritagedayballina.ie