Ards and North Down Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships 2019

The Ards and North Down Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships will take place on Saturday 11 May 2019 at Newtownards Airport, from 11am – 5pm.

Ian Burrows (Project Manager at the Northern Ireland branch of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association) pictured at Newtownards Airport with Scrabo Tower in the background. Picture: Paul Moane

Ards and North Down Borough Council, in association with the Northern Ireland branch of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, will host what will be a superb day out for the whole family.

Come along and see the world’s best Pipe Band and Drum Majors in action together with more than 1,000 musicians in 35 pipe bands contesting this year’s Ards and North Down Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships.

There will be plenty to do for the whole family with face painting, children’s highland games, food stalls and a mini funfair* (*minimal charge applies). Plus, there will be a colourful display of talent in the Highland Dancing competition!

It promises to be a day of music, colour and pageantry that will culminate in a spectacular Grand Finale March Past and Salute to the Chieftain, before the presentation of prizes.

You could even make a weekend of it and explore the area in and around Newtownards. Go shopping in the town centre which is filled with lovely gift shops, boutique shops and cosy cafes – perfect for those who love to shop or simply browse.

Maybe even make use of the fantastic facilities at the newly opened Ards Blair Mayne Leisure and Wellbeing Complex where those tired feet would definitely enjoy a trip to the relaxing surroundings of the spa.

Just outside the town centre, Mount Stewart is a beautiful spot to take a walk or enjoy a picnic while the view from Scrabo Tower is simply breathtaking!

For more information, visitardsandnorthdown.com/pipebands or rspbani.org, or call 028 9127 0069.