MARYMASS 2024 is well under way – and this weekend saw the festivities ramped up in Irvine in spectacular fashion.

The late morning and early afternoon of Saturday, August 17, saw the action packed event schedule move forward with the Fourth Port Parade taking place.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

There was a great turnout for the parade to the port, run by Irvine Carters Society, which left Second Avenue at 11am. 

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

The landmark 25th parade brought together the Fullarton and Harbourside communities, passing one of the four ports in Auld Irvine.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

The parade was initially born following the creation of the Rivergate Shopping Centre and removal of the Auld Brig in the 1970s, meaning it was no longer possible for the main Marymass parade to make its way across the River Irvine.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

Instead, the Fourth Port Parade connects communities in the celebrations and allows the Harbour to remain a central part of the festivities.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

The parade featured mainly horses, dressed up for the occasion, as well as a number of carts, bands and local groups.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

Though the procession concluded at 1pm, it was the far from the end of the Marymass fun on Saturday.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

Later that evening saw the Festival of Light Parade, departing from Irvine Cross and heading over to Irvine Moor.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

All participating were met at the landmark by the funfair and, later in the evening, the Marymass fireworks.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

A big crowd was wowed by a stunning display and yet another night full of festival magic.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

A festival spokesperson commented: "Thank you so much to everyone who came out and enjoyed their night with us.

"Our biggest Festival of Light Parade followed by one of our best firework shows in years. Irvine, you are amazing."

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

Events are continuing thick and fast throughout the next week, before the Marymass Parade takes place on Saturday, August 24.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

All the latest information on what is coming up is available online via the festival Facebook page - facebook.com/marymassfestival.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)