Sham Fight

The Sham Fight happens every year on July 13 at Scarva in Co Down .It’s a hugely popular event, commemorating the victory of William of Orange over King James in 1690.  King Billy camped at the village along with his 30,000-strong army on his way to the Battle of the Boyne.  Every year thousands gather at the tiny village to mark the date.

The main attraction, as well as more parade s, is the Sham Fight itself.  In the mock fight, two groups of men march or ride between the crowds and exchange blank gunfire shots.  One group dresses in white and red, and represents the soldier of King Billy while the other wears white and green, representing King James’s army.  Families with small kids are warned the gunfire can be loud.

Check out the old chestnut tree while you’re there, where William of Orange is said to have camped.

The main procession will leave the assembly field on the Gilford Road at 11.15am and proceed through the village to the Demesne

Tens of thousands of spectators will line the one-mile route to witness the spectacle.

The return parade is scheduled to leave the Demesne at approximately 3pm.