About
Experience the excitement of Down Rally up close at the new city centre fan-zone where spectators can interact with the competitors, witness thrilling high-speed action, and enjoy family fun attractions including face painting and games!
A traditional ceremonial start takes place in Market Square from 7.30pm on Friday 21st July with the rally screening kicking off in Market Square at 9am on Saturday 22nd July.
On Saturday, spectators can see all the cars checking in at Market Square North between 12 noon and 2pm, while the Central Services Area will be located at Lagan Valley Island, where you can view the action from 12.30-2.30pm. The Winners Champagne Ceremony will take place at the finish ramp in Market Square North from 5pm.
Spectators can watch all the action on the big find all the essential event information, including stage maps and schedule, in the official event programme which can be purchased in the Visitor Information Centre in Lisburn’s Market Square.
Friday 21 July 7.30pm – 8.30pm
Ceremonial Start - Market Square
Enjoy the spectacle of the Ceremonial Start in Lisburn City Centre. See the top crews from across the UK pass through Bow Street and Market Square, checking in at the rally ramp to greet the fans and be interviewed by Down Rally host, Gerry Falloona, before returning to Lagan Valley Island.
Saturday 22 July 9am – 6pm
Rally Screening & Fan Zone – Market Square
The fan zone opens at 9am, with live screening and commentary from Gerry Falloona which will continue throughout the day until the Winner’s Reception and Ceremonial Finish.
Key Times:
12noon - 4pm enjoy an afternoon of free family entertainment within the fan zone, including face painters, balloon modellers and a live caricaturist.
12noon - 2pm Midday “regroup activity” at the fan zone. Spectators can watch 100 -120 cars and drivers make their way at one minute intervals through the city centre, travelling from Lagan Valley Island, along Castle Street and Bow Street before arriving at Market Square. Each car will check in at the rally ramp before returning to Lagan Valley Island for a service stop.
5pm (approx.) The champagne ceremony for the winning crew will be held at the finish ramp in Market Square and the top finishers will group for interviews and photographs.
About the live host
Gerry Falloona worked as a Supercar & Rally Car driving instructor and competed in stock, saloon and rally cars. He was a presenter on the motorsport Television show RPM on UTV and RTÉ and for four years presented the Friday Drivetime radio show on Belfast89.
