Thousands turn out to annual Scarva Sham Fight

At a glance

Thousands of people have taken to the streets of Scarva in County Down for the annual Sham Fight.
The mock battle shows a theatrical re-enactment of the victory of King William over King James at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.
A mile-long parade featuring about 70 bands and preceptories from Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US also made its way through the village on Saturday.
The event, hosted by the Royal Black Institution, takes place every year on 13 July.
Scarva is where King William is said to have camped with his army on his way to the Battle of the Boyne.

13 July 2024

Image source, Pacemaker
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Thousands have turned out in Scarva to celebrate the village's annual Sham Fight
Image source, Pacemaker
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The day started with a parade featuring 4,800 band members
Image source, Pacemaker
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The event is held each year on 13 July
Image source, Pacemaker
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Almost 70 bands, featuring flute, accordion, pipe, brass and silver, were involved in the mile-long parade
Image source, Pacemaker
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Nine visiting preceptories from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the USA also took part
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Many attendees took the chance to enjoy the rare good weather
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Newly-elected South Antrim MP Robin Swann was also in Scarva for the event
Image source, Pacemaker
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The parade was followed by a re-enactment of the Battle of the Boyne in 1690
Image source, Pacemaker
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It ended (as it does every year) with King William, played by John Adair, securing victory over Colin Cairn's King James

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