Marymass Festival

Marymass Festival

Second and third weeks in AugustThe Marymass Festival is famous for its horse races, believed to be the oldest in Europe. It is named after Mary, the mother of Jesus and is held near August 15, the Feast of the Assumption. But it also honors Mary (1542-1587), queen of Scots, who is said to have visited Irvine and enjoyed the festivities in 1563. In addition to the horse races, there is a parade, the crowning of a Marymass queen, fireworks, and other events.
CONTACTS:
Irvine Carters Society
86 Montgomery St.
Irvine, Scotland KA12 8PW United Kingdom
44-12-9427-5515
www.marymass.org