Lifeboat Festival fun for all the family
It’s the 11th year of the Festival and here’s hoping for some good weather.
This year’s event will begin with the St. Ayles Skiffs racing followed by our ever popular raft race at 12.45 p.m. All depart from the Slipway. The Raft Race once again sponsored by MAXOL HIGHTREES gives clubs, organisations, pubs and individuals a chance to get their teams together to see who will be this year’s winners. The Skiff’s will race further races following the Raft Race. There will be something for all ages. At Lemon’s Wharf there will be a slide and bouncy castle and the exciting Vortex Simulator reputed to be the only one in Ireland is back by popular demand. Down the Harbour will be a variety of food stalls, confectionery, arts and crafts along with “doctorfunnybone” an exciting magician who will teach you to do magic tricks and children’s rides. Our very own Lifeguards will be present along with the Coastguard, the Fire and Rescue Service, old military vehicles etc.
Visitors will have the chance to take a guided tour of the town’s iconic lighthouse. It was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity. The lighthouse will be open between Noon and 4.00 p.m. Unfortunately no children under 10 will be permitted on the tour because of safety regulations.
There will also be an opportunity to visit Saxon – Donaghadee’s All-weather Trent Class Lifeboat, which in the past year was called out to rescue a variety of craft. Our volunteer crew is trained by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution – the charity which saves lives at sea.
Donaghadee Sailing Club is hosting a BBQ in support of Donaghadee Lifeboat. The BBQ will commence around 6.00 p.m. and you are invited to come along and join in the fun.
Do come along and enjoy a day out in Donaghadee you’ll be made very welcome.