New jousting and free kids events on the moor have been launched as Irvine’s ancient Marymass festival makes its welcome return this week.
Residents will be able to enjoy jousting alongside the usual racing on the moor with a new family zone at the greasy pole.
A team of six professional stunt riders will take part in the full Marymass Parade on Saturday, August 20 before hosting an afternoon of jousting on Irvine Moor.
A Marymass spokesperson said: “The jousting arena will be located at the entrance to the moor, between the paddock and funfair area.
“This is a must see event, the crowd have a chance to get up close to the action, with interactive elements and plenty to cheer about!
“We are so excited to welcome this major new event to Irvine Moor for 2022 and we are just as excited to see all of the knights take part in the Marymass Parade (you’ll find them just behind the Royal Party).
“The Family Zone will be packed full of free activities for kids of all ages, including face painting, balloon modelling, kids crafts, Mobile Youth Centre, water fight zone (weather
permitting), climbing wall, silent disco with glitter tattoos and mocktails and more.
“There will also be a beat the goalie stall, ice cream van and food vendors in this area too.
“Come along, bring your picnic blanket and enjoy the free kids activities as well as action from the greasy pole and horse racing from 1-5pm!”
Timetable of the confirmed main events
Thursday, August 11 - Opening Ceremony at Irvine Townhouse 8pm-10pm
Free kids face painting and balloon modelling, Irvine Beat Roadshow from 8, announcement of 2022 Captain around 9.40pm with Piper leading march. New Queen and Marys' sashing, festival opens.
Saturday, August 13 - Marymass Craft Market at M&Co 9-5
Fourth Port Parade from 11am Second Ave, 11:45pm at Harbour, finishes 1pm
Trades Gala Day and Duck Race at Low Green 1-4pm
Festival of Light Parade at Irvine Cross 9pm, terminates Moor 9.30pm
Marymass Fireworks Display at Irvine Moor 9:45pm
Wednesday, August 17 - Dog Show at Volunteer Rooms 7pm
Friday, August 19 - Football Derby at Meadow Park 7:30pm kick off
Saturday, August 20 - 9am Judging of horses at Golffields Road
10am - Parade begins
11am - Pre crowning entertainment
12pm - Crowning of 2022 Marymass Queen
12:30pm - Parade from Irvine Cross to Irvine Moor, arriving 1pm
1-5pm - Activities on Irvine Moor including jousting (2pm and 4pm), greasy pole, horse racing, paddock, beer tent, market, funfair, live entertainment and more
More news and pictures in next week’s free 16 page Marymass supplement, which will be in every copy of the Irvine Times.
Further updates can be found on our website and Facebook site. You can also pick up the 2022 official Marymass programme which is now available at outlets across Irvine.
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