The 1996–97 County Antrim Shield was the 108th edition of the County Antrim Shield, a cup competition in Northern Irish football.

Cliftonville won the tournament for the 6th time, defeating Ballymena United 5–4 on penalties after the final finished 0-0. This was the second time the final had been played, after the original match was abandoned after 66 minutes due to crowd disorder. For the 11th year running three clubs from County Armagh competed (Glenavon, Newry Town and Portadown).

Results

First round

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Quarter-finals

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Semi-finals

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Final

References

External links
 Northern Ireland - List of County Antrim Shield Winners

1996–97 in Northern Ireland association football