Expect big crowds and a colourful atmosphere in Ballymena this Saturday as Mid and East Antrim Pride returns; organisers and police have shared the parade route, road closures and safety advice so locals and visitors know where to go, when to travel and how to stay safe.

Essential Takeaways

  • Parade timing: Assemble around 1pm on Waveney Road, march starts at 2pm and finishes by 3pm.
  • Route and closures: The procession runs via Galgorm Road, Pentagon, Mill Street, Wellington Street, Broughshane Street, William Street, Ballymoney Street and Greenvale Street , expect town-centre road closures.
  • Police presence: Increased PSNI patrols planned; officers urge the public to follow instructions and use online guidance for protests and parading.
  • Planned protests: Four demonstrations are listed for Harmony Hub and Broughshane Street areas; authorities expect them to remain peaceful.
  • Support for victims: PSNI highlights resources on responding to sexual orientation and gender identity hate crime and encourages reporting.

What the day will feel like , colourful, busy and closely policed

If you were at last year’s event, you’ll remember the hum of the crowd and the mix of banners, music and family groups , expect more of the same. The Parades Commission predicts thousands will attend and the PSNI says there’ll be an increased presence to keep people safe. That means a visible, orderly policing footprint, but also some noise and temporary disruption around the centre of town.

Know the route so you can plan where to watch or avoid traffic

The parade assembles in the Waveney Road area at about 1pm and moves at 2pm along Galgorm Road towards the Pentagon before threading through Mill Street, Wellington Street, Broughshane Street, William Street, Ballymoney Street and finishing on Greenvale Street at roughly 3pm. If you’re driving through Ballymena that afternoon, leave earlier or pick an alternative route , local road closures will affect town-centre access for the duration.

Safety and protests , what police are advising

According to PSNI guidance, parade attendees should follow officers’ instructions, respect others and consult official advice on processions and protests. Four protests connected to the event are listed on the Parades Commission website; police expect them to remain peaceful but recommend people avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place if they want a quieter experience.

Practical tips for attendees and locals

Arrive early if you want a good vantage point, because streets will fill quickly and public transport may be busier than usual. Wear comfortable shoes , cobbles and standing for long periods aren’t forgiving , and bring water; it’s a short route but a long communal buzz. If you need to report any incident, PSNI signposts resources on hate-crime reporting and support for victims of sexual orientation or gender identity offences.

Why this matters for the community

Pride is more than a march; it’s a public expression of support and visibility for LGBT+ people in Mid and East Antrim. Organisers have said this year’s event aims to be “louder, prouder, stronger,” building on the momentum of the inaugural parade that drew crowds despite efforts to disrupt it. The extra police liaison and clear online guidance show institutions are trying to balance safety with the right to celebrate.

It's a small change in your weekend plans that can make the day smoother for everyone , plan ahead and enjoy the parade.

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