Marymass Festival, Irvine - 2016

The Lord Lieutenant and Mrs Duncan were guests of honour at the Crowning Ceremony and Procession which was held recently as part of the annual Marymass Festival in Irvine. The wet and windy weather failed to dampen spirits and several thousand residents and visitors turned out for the occasion.

Celebrated in Irvine for centuries, the Marymass Festival is recognised locally and nationally as a major event that annually attracts thousands of visitors during a 12-day period in mid-August.

Based on a medieval religious festival and local horse fair, Marymass incorporates Irvine Carters Society “Riding the Marches” – namely, the “Four Ports” of the ancient and Royal Burgh of Irvine.

Over the years the Marymass festival has developed into a major multi-event community festival incorporating five Core Annual Events. These are:

• The “?Choosing?” of the Captain of the Carters’ Society and "Sashing" the Queen-Elect and her four Marys;
• The Carters’ “Fourth Port” parade to Irvine Harbour and related events;
• Marymass Parade and Crowning the Marymass Queen;
• Horse Races (including Clydesdales) on the Town Moor; and
• The Marymass Folk Festival (one of Britain’s longest-running).

Provost Joan Sturgeon with Marymass Queen, Abbi McLeish and her 4 Marys.

Pictured above are Mrs Duncan, Robin Sturgeon, Ruth McGuire MSP, Phillipa Whitford MP, Councillor Willie Gibson, Council Leader, Lord Lieutenant and Provost Joan Sturgeon.