Thousands Join Twelfth July Orange Order Parades Across Northern Ireland

The Twelfth of July parades, a significant event commemorating the 335th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, will take place across Northern Ireland, showcasing Protestant traditions and Ulster-Scots heritage. Thousands of Orange Order members, along with visiting lodges from Scotland and beyond, will participate in parades and celebrations in multiple locations, including Ballymena, Rasharkin, Derry, and Rossnowlagh in Donegal. The events begin with Eleventh Night bonfires, which honor the historic welcome given to King William III’s supporters, though some bonfires have sparked concerns due to safety and offensive symbolism. The Orange Order emphasizes the parades as family and community occasions, with extensive planning to ensure safety, cooperation with police, and a focus on heritage rather than controversy. In Derry, hundreds of Orangemen will participate in multiple parades, including a main demonstration and smaller local events, while in Co Antrim, parades and festivities will feature numerous lodges, bands, and family-friendly activities. The celebrations reflect a longstanding tradition with participation from local and international Orange lodges, highlighting the cultural significance of the day for unionist communities.