We have times, routes, traffic advice and more for all 18 demonstrations
13:49, 11 Jul 2025Updated 13:54, 11 Jul 2025
Twelfth celebrations in Killylea on July 12, 2024(Image: Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)
The biggest day in the Northern Irish parading calendar is almost here and Twelfth of July preparations are well underway across the country.
Thousands are set to take part in commemorating the 335th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, with 18 places across Northern Ireland hosting demonstrations on Saturday. Orangemen, women and juniors – accompanied by in the region of 600 marching bands of all types – will be on parade at the various locations with plenty of pageantry, colour and heritage on display.
Ahead of the Orange Order’s July 12 parades on Saturday, the main date in the parading calendar of Protestant loyal orders, hundreds of bonfires were lit on Thursday and Friday night.
READ MORE: Eleventh Night bonfires LIVE as pyres to be lit across Northern IrelandREAD MORE: Bonfires lit in Moygashel and Portadown as 11th celebrations begin across Northern Ireland
Dundonald will have the honour of hosting a Twelfth demonstration for the first time in more than 50 years having been named among the venues for this year’s Twelfth of July celebrations.
The County Armagh demonstration, which will be held in the village of Keady this year, is firmly established as the largest Orange gathering in the world. Belfast and Ballymena are the only two venues where Twelfth demonstrations occur every year.
They will join 14 other venues across Northern Ireland including Kesh, Coleraine, Coagh, Sixmilecross, Augher, Dromara, Dundrum, Kilkeel, Cullybackey, Rasharkin, Carnlough, Lisburn, Glengormley and Maghera.
Ahead of celebrations, Grand Master, Edward Stevenson once again put in focus the significance of Orange culture and traditions, which is underlined by the scale of the parades.
He said: “Our Twelfth of July celebrations are an event like no other. Across the 18 venues, we will have tens of thousands of our members – men, women and young people taking part in a community tradition which has been faithfully maintained for well over 200 years.
“Many thousands more will line the streets of host cities, towns and villages. There is simply no other local event which can bring such vast numbers of people onto the streets, either by taking part or by enjoying the day as a spectator.
“With the continuing growth of the Junior Orange movement we can say with confidence that this is a tradition that will continue to be upheld for many years to come.”
Here is what you need to know ahead of the Twelfth of July in Northern Ireland:
Where and when are the Twelfth of July parades 2025?
Here are the details of the Twelfth of July parades 2025 issued by the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland:
BELFASTThe Twelfth in Belfast.(Image: Justin Kernoghan)
An expected crowd of more than 115,000 spectators, the streets will echo with the sights and sounds of music, pageantry, and celebration.
Leading the procession will be the County Grand Lodge of Belfast, setting off at 10:00am sharp from Belfast Orange Hall at Carlisle Circus.
The parade route sweeps through the heart of Belfast, passing Clifton Street, Donegall Street, Royal Avenue, and Donegall Place enroute to a special Act of Remembrance at Belfast City Hall, where a wreath will be laid at the Cenotaph just before 10:30am. The short act of remembrance is a moment of solemn reflection in the midst of celebration and is an opportunity to honour the sacrifices of those who gave their lives in defence of their nation.
From there, the parade continues through Donegall Square West, Bedford Street, and Dublin Road, onto Shaftesbury Square, Bradbury Place, Lisburn Road, Balmoral Avenue, and Malone Road, before reaching its destination at Barnett’s Demesne – a 6-mile journey, making this the longest Orange procession on the Twelfth.
The County Grand Lodge, comprised of nine Districts, they will be under the command of Rt. Wor. Bro. Spencer Beattie, who celebrates seven years at the helm as County Grand Master. This year’s parade will include 77 bands — from all across Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Upon reaching Barnett’s Demesne, the official platform proceedings and traditional speeches will commence at 2:30pm. The proceedings will be chaired by Rt. Wor. Bro. Beattie, with a short religious service conducted by County Grand Chaplain Wor. Bro. Rev. Dr. Ron Johnstone. A keynote address will be delivered by Bro. Rt. Hon. Gavin Robinson, Member of Parliament for East Belfast.
The return parade begins at 3:30pm, as the bands and Lodges make their way home to their respective areas via the city centre.
A supporting programme of activities hosted by Belfast Orangefest will once again bring added excitement to the Twelfth, with family-friendly activities, cultural showcases and something for everyone to enjoy.
From 9:00am to 2:00pm, the city will be alive with a variety of family-friendly activities including music, street performers, food vendors, and interactive displays.
DUNDRUM
Dundrum will proudly host the annual Battle of the Boyne Celebrations on Saturday, 12th July, with Castlewellan District LOL No. 12 welcoming several thousand participants and spectators for what promises to be a day of tradition, colour and pageantry.
Over 3,000 Orange members, accompanied by 70 bands will take part in this year’s ‘Mid and East Down’ celebrations. Participating Districts will include Lecale District LOL No.2, Saintfield District LOL No.5, Comber District LOL No.15, Ballynahinch District LOL No.17, and host district Castlewellan District LOL No.12.
The parade will leave the assembly point on the Belfast Road at 12:00 noon, making its way along Main Street and Old Road, to the Demonstration field on the Ballyloughlin Road .
The return parade will leave the field at approximately 4:00pm, retracing its steps back to the Belfast Road where the visiting Districts will board their busses.
The Platform proceedings will be chaired by Wor. Bro. Ernie Ritchie, District Master, Castlewellan LOL No. 12 and the religious service will be led by Wor. Bro. Rev. George Speers, District Chaplain.
Roads will close from 11:15am, and in order to minimise disruption and congestion, spectators and participants are encouraged to arrive early.
With thousands expected to descend on the area, it’s set to be a memorable and positive day for Dundrum and the surrounding community.
COAGH
The Main Parade will commence at 12:30pm from Ruskey Road on the outskirts of the village before making its way along Tamlaght Hill, Coagh Bridge, Main Street, to the Demonstration Field on the Drumconvis Road .
What makes Coagh unique is that the parade actually crosses a county line – beginning in County Londonderry before crossing into County Tyrone as it passes over Coagh Bridge.
The organisers expect that around 70 Lodges and 50 Bands will take part, making this one of the largest processions in the Province.
The parade will be led by County Officers and visiting dignitaries and include Women’s LOL Districts, Lodges from Killyman District LOL No.1, Stewartstown District LOL No.2, Cookstown District LOL No.3 , Castlecaulfield District LOL No.4, Pomeroy District LOL No.5, Benburb District LOL No.13, and of course, Coagh District LOL No.10.
Coagh are honoured to be joined by Rt. Wor. Bro. Derek Reaney, the new County Grand Master of Tyrone, Wor. Sister Joan Beggs, Grand Mistress of the Association of Loyal Orangewomen of Ireland and Rt. Wor. Bro. Robert Abernethy, Past County Grand Master of Tyrone.
The platform proceedings will begin at 2:30pm in the Demonstration field (Drumconvis Road) where the religious service will be led by Wor. Bro. Rev. Tom Greer.
Tamlaghtmore Silver Band will provide the music during the platform proceedings with Resolutions and traditional speeches to follow.
The return parade will start at approximately 3:45pm along Drumconvis Road, Main Street and disperse at Cookstown Road.
RASHARKINTwelfth of July parade stock image(Image: Getty Images)
This year, the village of Rasharkin has the honour of hosting the North Antrim Combine Twelfth of July celebrations. The event promises to be a colourful and vibrant spectacle featuring 43 Lodges and 30 bands and Lambeg drums drawn from five local districts – Rasharkin District LOL No.5, Ballymoney District LOL No.16, Bushmills District LOL No.21, Ballycastle District LOL No.23 , and Cloughmills District LOL No.14.
The assembly point will be on the Finvoy Road with the parade starting at 1:00pm. Leading the parade will be the impressive Ballymaconnelly Sons of Conquerors Flute Band who will take pride of place as the procession moves through Rasharkin village. The parade starts on Finvoy Road, before making its way through the village arriving at the Demonstration field at ‘The Turnpike.’
Platform proceedings start at approximately 2:30 pm where the guest speaker will be Rt. Wor. Bro. Maurice Kirkwood, County Grand Master of Antrim. The praise will be led by The Vow Accordion Band.
The Demonstration field will be full of family-friendly fun, including food vendors & refreshments, children’s entertainment, stalls and attractions for all ages. Toilets and First Aid facilities will be available on-site.
The return parade will commence at 4:15pm, leaving the Demonstration field and returning through Rasharkin village with dispersal on the Finvoy Road. Ballymoney District LOL No.16 will be leading the homeward parade.
AUGHER
This Twelfth of July, the picturesque village of Augher in County Tyrone will proudly host the Twelfth of July celebrations for the Clogher Valley.
Organised by the joint host districts of Fivemiletown District LOL No.15 and Annahoe District LOL No.6, the day promises to be a celebration of Orange heritage and community spirit.
Bands and Lodges will assemble from 12:15pm at the field on Favour Royal Road, just inside the town boundary. The parade will proceed through Favour Royal Road, Main Street, Augher, turn left at the junction with the Belfast– Enniskillen Road, Clogher Road and arrive at the Demonstration field at around 1.00pm.
The parade will be headed by District Officers from Fivemiletown District LOL No.15 and Annahoe District LOL No.6, followed by Mulnahunch Accordion Band, who marked their 75th anniversary last year. They are leading Mulnahunch Lily of Clonaneese LOL 96, the oldest Orange lodge in the Clogher Valley.
The parade will also include the Ladies from WLOL 194 Mountforest and Junior Lodges from Glenageeragh and Annahoe District. Their involvement continues to highlight the intergenerational strength and spirit of the local Orange family.
Platform proceedings begin at 2:15pm in the Demonstration Field and will feature a religious service at the heart of the day’s celebration.
Musical performances will be provided by Glenageeragh Pipe Band, known for their distinctive Brian Boru pipes and the award winning Murley Silver Band.
Children’s entertainment will follow the service with a range of games and activities for all the family.
The return parade will retrace the same route, departing at 4:15pm and concluding back at Favour Royal Road.
BALLYMENA
The City of the Seven Towers is once again gearing up to host its traditional District Twelfth of July parade which will include the 27 local lodges, 17 bands as well as the traditional sounds of the iconic Lambeg Drum. The parade will also include some visiting Brethren from Cullybackey District.
The men’s senior lodges will be joined by two Ladies’ Lodges, two Junior Boys’ Lodges, and a Junior Girls’ Lodge. (Sister Turtle Memorial WLOL 14, Ferniskey WLOL 74, Ferniskey Rising Sons JLOL265, The Duke of Edinburgh Memorial JLOL 621 and newly formed Daughters of Ferniskey JWLOL 55 who will be making their Twelfth debut.)
The honour of leading the 2025 celebrations goes to Slatt LOL 475, who will head the parade accompanied by the ever-popular Pride of the Maine Flute Band who are celebrating their 50th Anniversary.
The parade will assemble at Wakehurst Road at 12:30pm, passing along Larne Road, Larne Street, Henry Street, over Harryville Bridge, through Waveney Road, Galgorm Road, the Pentagon, then down Lower Mill Street, Wellington Street, Ballymoney Street, and finally Thomas Street, arriving at The People’s Park.
The Platform Proceedings will take place at 2:30pm with a religious service led by Grand Chaplain Wor. Bro. Ian McClean. The principal speaker is delivered by Most Wor. Bro. Henry Dunbar, Past Grand Master of Scotland.
CARNLOUGH
The ‘Braid’ Twelfth this year will be held in Carnlough and will include 11 local Lodges.
9 Bands will accompany the Brethren along with 2 Sets of Lambeg Drums. This year, the parade will be led by Carnlough LOL 1180, accompanied by the Carnlough Flute Band.
The parade will begin at 12.00 noon from the assembly field located at the park on Bay Road. From there, the route continues through the heart of the village, before making its way up Largy Road to the Demonstration field, situated near St. Patrick’s Church.
Braid District have worked hard to make sure the day is an enjoyable experience for everyone. Toilets are available at the Demonstration field for public use and a clearly marked First Aid point will be located within the field, staffed by trained professionals.
For younger attendees, there will be bouncy castles and funfair-style attractions available during the afternoon. A selection of food vendors will be in attendance in the field to cater for hungry walkers and participants alike.
The platform proceedings will begin around 2.30pm when the principal speakers will include Wor. Bro. Rev. William Anderson and Wor. Bro. Robin Swann MP for South Antrim.
The parade will leave for its return leg, following the same route, at around 4.00pm.
MAGHERA
This year, Maghera will host the South Londonderry Twelfth of July celebrations, bringing together 8 Districts comprised of over 50 local Lodges and their accompanying bands.
The Assembly Point will be at the junction of Station Road and Crew Road with a parade start time of 12noon. The parade will make its way along Station Road, Grove Terrace, O’Hara Road, Coleraine Road, Main Street, Church Street and then to Mullagh Road and the Demonstration Field, kindly provided by Maghera Presbyterian Church.
The parade will be led by Grand Lodge, County, and District Officers, followed by Castledawson LOL 96 with Castledawson Flute Band, Castledawson District LOL No. 1, then Kilrea District No. 5, Garvagh District LOL No. 4, Tamlaght O’Crilly District LOL No. 9, Moneymore District LOL No. 10, Magherafelt District LOL No. 3, Ballyronan District LOL No. 7, and Tobermore District LOL No. 11.
The return parade will begin at 3:30pm taking in Mullagh Road, Church Street, Main Street where the procession will split as the visiting Districts make their way to their respective dispersal points and transport.
The platform proceedings will start at 2:00pm at the Demonstration field where the speaker Rt. Wor. Bro. Harold Henning, Deputy Grand Master will be in attendance, along with Wor. Bro. Stephen Fleming, County Grand Secretary and Wor. Bro. Keith Thompson, Deputy County Grand Master.
The religious service will be led by Bro. Rev. Nigel Kane, assisted by Bro. Rev. Rhys Jones and Bro. Rev. Dr. Baron McCrea of Magherafelt and Cookstown.
SIXMILECROSS
This year’s North & West Tyrone demonstration will take place in the village of Sixmilecross where the hosts, Sixmilecross District No. 7, will be joined by a strong turnout from neighbouring districts, including, Fintona District LOL No. 8, Newtownstewart District LOL No. 9, Omagh District LOL No. 11, Killen District LOL No. 12, Strabane District LOL No. 14, Omagh WLOL and Castlederg WLOL, alongside the Associated Boys and Girls Junior Lodges and their supporting Bands.
In total, approximately 60 Lodges and Bands will be on parade creating a vibrant and colourful spectacle.
The assembly point will be at the field located just off Cooley Road – directly opposite Kerr Villas, on the Beragh side of the village. The demonstration field is situated on the Tirooney Road, on the Carrickmore side of the village.
The parade will commence at 12:30pm and proceed along Cooley Road, continue through Main Street, and conclude along Tirooney Road. The parade route is approximately one and a half miles long, allowing plenty of opportunity for spectators to enjoy the pageantry and music.
The platform proceedings will start at 2:30pm where the main speaker will be Bro. Rev. Charles Eames who will lead a religious service. The return parade will start at 4.00pm.
Sixmilecross proudly acknowledge the contributions of Bro. Rev. W.F. Marshall, a distinguished figure from this area, who played a key role in the study and development of the Ulster-Scots language and heritage. His work remains a cornerstone of our local cultural identity.
KEADYTwelfth of July parade(Image: Graham Baalham-Curry)
The County Armagh Twelfth Demonstration has firmly secured its reputation as the largest Orange gathering in the world each 12th of July. With 11 District Lodges, 150 Private Lodges, over 5,000 Brethren, plus representation from the Association of Loyal Orangewomen of Ireland and Junior Lodges, the event showcases the full strength of the Orange Family — and annually attracts an incredible 40,000 spectators!
Orangeism was founded in County Armagh, and that history continues to this day. With around 130 Orange Halls, (the highest concentration to be found anywhere in the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ireland), the County Armagh Grand Lodge continues to grow, year after year. It’s no wonder the Orchard County proudly leads the way in celebrating tradition and community.
Adding to the spectacle, nearly 70 award winning pipe, accordion, silver, and flute bands will take part in the parade as well as dozens of iconic Lambeg Drums. As always, several Scottish bands will also travel over to take part, reinforcing the strong cross-channel bonds.
This year, the honour of hosting the Twelfth falls to Keady District LOL No. 8. With 7 Private Lodges and over 200 members, Keady’s brethren are thrilled to welcome the County once again — their first time hosting since 2012.
Poignantly, wreaths will be laid at the Keady District Orange Hall in memory of two Brethren, Bro. Norman Watson and Bro. Joseph Reid, who lost their lives during the Troubles.
Local members assemble at 9:00am at the District Hall with the Main Parade starting at 10:30am, led by Derryhennett True Blues LOL 37 and Crosskeys Victoria Flute Band.
The parade will make its way along Tassagh Road and Crossmore Road to the Demonstration Field. The return parade starts at 2:45pm, reversing the route.
The parade will include Richhill District LOL No.2, Newtownhamilton District LOL No.9, Portadown District LOL No.1, Lurgan District LOL No.6, Killylea District LOL No.7, Markethill District LOL No.10, Armagh District LOL No.5, Bessbrook District LOL No.11, Loughgall District LOL No.3, and Tandragee District LOL No.4.
The official platform proceedings will begin at 1:45pm, chaired by Rt. Wor. Bro. Denis J Watson JP, County Grand Master. A religious service will be led by Wor. Bro. Rev. Dr. Alan McCann and Deputy Chaplains and will include an Act of Remembrance and solemn tribute to fallen brethren. The Twelfth Resolutions on Faith, Loyalty, and The State proposed and passed with a keynote address by Wor. Bro. Rev. Mervyn Gibson MBE, Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland.
DROMARA
The South-West Down Combine parade will this year be hosted by Lower Iveagh District LOL No.1 in Dromara. The Assembly field will be located on the Banbridge Road, while the Demonstration field will be on the Rathfriland Road, directly facing Dromara Football Club.
At 11:30am, District Officers and Dignitaries will depart from Dromara Orange Hall and parade to the Assembly Point. The main demonstration will then commence at 12:00 noon, featuring approximately 2,500 Brethren and 43 bands on parade. It is expected to take around one hour and forty-five minutes for all participants to reach the Demonstration Field.
Platform proceedings will begin at 2:45pm, chaired by Bro. Baird of the South-West Down Area Committee. The guest speaker will be Wor. Bro. Kyle McIlWrath, Deputy County Grand Master of County Down. Also in attendance will be Wor. Bro. Rev. Victor Neil, County Grand Chaplain, and the service will be conducted by Bro. Samuel Morrison, the District Chaplain of Lower Iveagh.
The return parade will leave the demonstration field at 4:00pm, making its way back to the assembly point.
Seven districts within the South-West Down combine will be represented, Lower Iveagh District LOL No. 1, Rathfriland District LOL No. 3, Banbridge District LOL No. 7, Lower Iveagh West District LOL No. 8, Newry District LOL No. 9, Loughbrickland District LOL No. 10, and Gilford District LOL No. 13.
Leading the demonstration will be Dromara lol 12, proudly accompanied by Waringsford Pipe Band. A number of Ladies’ Lodges and Junior Boys’ Lodges will also be participating, with JLOL 31 taking pride of place at the front of the District.
A District Church Service will take place on Sunday, 6th July in Dromore Free Presbyterian Church and on Monday, 7th July, the sound of Lambeg Drums will echo from the top of Slieve Croob. The week will continue with live bands performing in Dromara Village on Wednesday, 9th July, and in Dromore on Thursday 10th July.
KILKEEL
The Mourne District LOL No. 6 Twelfth of July 2025 celebrations will this year be hosted in Kilkeel – the ‘capital’ of the Kingdom of Mourne. With around 1,700 participants on parade, including 15 local bands and more than 3,000 spectators expected to line the streets, this year’s event will be one of the highlights of the summer.
Mourne District LOL No. 6 is proud to be the largest district in the Orange Institution, boasting over 1,100 members. Among its ranks is the largest private lodge in the Order — Ballyvea LOL 343a, which continues to grow with an impressive membership of 162. This year, the honour of leading the District Parade falls to one of the area’s oldest Lodges, Brunswick LOL 1702 from Annalong , while the largest Junior Lodge in the Institution will once again take pride of place at the head of the procession.
The day will begin with Kilkeel Lodges assembling at Kilkeel Orange Hall at 11:00am before stepping off on a 1.5-mile route to Leestone Road on the outskirts of the town.
There, they will join with the rest of the Mourne District for the return parade into Kilkeel, which will conclude at Queen Elizabeth II Park on Manse Road.
After the parade, friends, family, and spectators are warmly invited to join the Brethren in the Demonstration Field for a complimentary picnic, generously provided by the Lodges. This family-friendly gathering takes place in one of the most scenic settings imaginable, with the majestic Mourne Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Platform proceedings will begin at 2:15pm.
The homeward parade will commence at 4:00pm. The Annalong Lodges will return to their village and conclude their day with a local parade, while the Kilkeel Lodges will march through the town, taking in Newry Street, Harbour Road, Harbour Drive, Knockchree Avenue, and Greencastle Street where they will disperse at Kilkeel Orange Hall.
The platform party this year will feature guest speaker Wor. Bro. Ellis Hanna, alongside the Mourne District Officers. Chairing proceedings will be Worshipful District Master Rt. Wor. Bro. William Baillie, joined by Deputy District Master Wor. Bro. James Morris, District Chaplain Wor. Bro. Bro. Brian Niblock, District Secretary Wor. Bro. Stephen Nicholson, Assistant Secretary, Wor. Bro. Richard McKee and District Treasurer Wor. Bro. David Hanna.
GLENGORMLEY
The East Antrim Combine’s annual Twelfth Parade will this year be hosted by Carnmoney District LOL No. 25 and held in Glengormley.
The main parade will start at 11:00am from Jubilee Way, making its way along Ballyclare Road to Lilian Bland Park where there will be a wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph. The procession will then make its way to Antrim Road, O’Neill Road, Church Road arriving at V36 Park around 1.30pm.
The return parade commences at 3:30pm from V36 Park, making its way along Church Road, Prince Charles Way, Church Way and Antrim Road, before finishing at Ballyclare Road.
Cloughfern District LOL No. 24 will leave the main parade at O’Neill Road roundabout and return to Cloughfern Protestant Hall.
A day full of colour and culture is expected with approx. 3,000 participants, 66 Lodges, and nearly 40 bands from Northern Ireland and Scotland as well as traditional Lambeg Drums.
Attendees will include members from nine Districts – Carnmoney District LOL No.25, Larne District LOL No.1, Sixmilewater District LOL No.10 , Antrim District LOL No.13, Staffordstown District LOL No.15, Killead District LOL No.17, Carrickfergus District LOL No.19, Randalstown District LOL No.22 and Cloughfern District LOL No.24.
Leading the Parade will be Carntall (Mossley) LOL 134, one of the oldest-warranted Lodges in Antrim, they will be accompanied by the excellent Black Skull Flute Band from Glasgow, continuing a proud 35-year partnership.
Carnmoney will be celebrating some important milestones at this year’s 335th Boyne Celebration with Carnmoney District LOL No.25 unveiling a brand-new District Bannerette and Collarettes, Burnside LOL 312 will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of their Orange Hall and Newmill Purple Invincibles LOL 222 will mark their 150th anniversary with the unfurling of a new banner, honouring Wor. Bro. Jim Robinson, who passed away in his 100th year.
There will be family friendly fun at the V36 Demonstration venue, which is located beside the Valley Leisure Centre, including children’s entertainment, inflatables, funfair rides, face painting and a fantastic play park.
The platform proceedings will commence at 2:00pm with a religious service led by Wor. Bro. Rev. David Bissett, County Antrim Deputy Grand Chaplain with musical accompaniment from Bro. James Strange. Traditional resolutions will be read and passed.
Prior to the Twelfth celebrations, some events will be taking place at the Apprentice Boys Memorial Orange Hall, Mossley.
This includes Orange Talks on Friday, 13th June & Friday, 20th June at 7:30pm, an Orange Exhibition on Friday, 27th June at 7:30pm and a Widows’ Fund Service on Sunday, 29th June at Newtownabbey Free Presbyterian Church, Corrs Corner.
KESHA Twelfth of July parade in Co Fermanagh(Image: Kelvin Boyes/PressEye)
This year’s Twelfth in Kesh promises to be a truly memorable occasion, rich in pageantry and tradition. The District is honoured to welcome Wor. Bro. Norman Henry, the esteemed Deputy Grand Lecturer, who will deliver the main address of the day.
The platform party will include the County Fermanagh Grand Lodge Officers who will be joined by the Grand Master, Most Wor. Bro. Edward Stevenson – making his first Twelfth visit to Fermanagh, and the Worshipful District Master of DLOL No. 10, Wor. Bro. Gary Wilson.
The day will commence at 12.00 noon, with participants assembling on Enniskillen Road, before parading along Main Street and Ederney Road and finishing at Valley Park on Ederney Road. The parade route offers a wonderful opportunity for onlookers to witness the vibrant traditions of the Orange Institution. In addition to the parade, the event will cater for all ages with a wide array of children’s entertainment available throughout the day.
The parade will be proudly led by Rosslea Accordion Band leading Mullycavan LOL 174 and Newtownbutler District LOL No.1. The parade will see over 70 bands and 90 lodges from Fermanagh and the neighbouring border counties take part. The music for the religious service will be led by Lisnaskea Silver Band.
In keeping with the charitable ethos of the Institution the designated charity for the day the MS Society will benefit from the street collection.
COLERAINE
Lodges from North Londonderry, City of Londonderry and East Donegal will this year gather in Coleraine to mark the 335th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne.
Coleraine District LOL No.2 will assemble on Union Street at 9:15am before stepping off at 9:30am for a route through the town which includes Railway Road, Church Street and The Diamond as they make their way to the assembly area to meet the visiting Lodges.
Members from the City of Londonderry Grand Orange Lodge, Limavady District LOL No. 6, and Macosquin District LOL No. 8 will arrive via Strand Road, and form up at
Shuttle Hill from 10:30am ahead of the main parade which will begin at 11:15am and will be broadcast across the UK on GBNews.
The parade will make its way to the Demonstration Field behind Coleraine Leisure Centre. En route, the parade will salute the War Memorial in The Diamond, honouring those who served and paid the supreme sacrifice.
The Platform Proceedings, beginning at 2:15pm with Rt Wor. Bro. James Evans, County Grand Master as main speaker and will include a Religious Service led by Wor. Bro. Rev. Joseph Andrews, Grand Chaplain.
At 3:30pm, the return parade commences, led by Coleraine District LOL No.2. On Church Street they will open ranks and allow their guests to pass through as they make their way to their dispersal areas and transport.
Marshals will be on hand throughout the day to ensure that this a successful and safe event for all.
CULLYBCAKEY
For the first time in living memory two districts will co-host what is known as the ‘Triangle’ Twelfth in the heart of Co. Antrim. This year, Portglenone District LOL No. 7 and Ahoghill District LOL No. 12 will jointly organise the Twelfth celebrations in the renowned village of Cullybackey.
The two District Masters, Wor. Bro. Robert Hanna of Portglenone and Wor. Bro. Ian Small of Ahoghill look forward to welcoming the Brethren of the ‘Triangle’ to Cullybackey.
The parade will commence from Ard Na Maine at 12.30pm and proceed the full length of the village’s main street, taking the direct route to the Cullybackey Community Playing fields.
The parade will be led by Brethren from Cullybackey District, followed by the lodges of Portglenone and Ahoghill and will include award winning bands such as Cullybackey Pipe Band, Killycoogan, Milltown and Killyless Accordion Bands together with McNeillstown Pipe Band, former world champions.
Platform proceedings will commence at 2:15pm led by Wor. Bro. Robert Edwards.
A large turnout of lambeg drums is also anticipated and they will join forces in a Massed Lambeg Drumming display in the demonstration field before the return parade leaves the field at 3:45pm and makes its way to the Fenaghy Road.
LISBURN
This year, the City of Lisburn plays host to the 335th Anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne on Saturday, 12th July 2025, organised on behalf of the South Antrim Combine by Lisburn District LOL No. 6.
The celebration promises to be a major cultural and historical event, with over 2,000 members of the Orange Institution—including Orangemen, women, and Juniors— with 65 lodges joining forces with up to 25 marching bands to commemorate one of the most significant events in British and Irish history. Districts taking part include Royal Hillsborough District LOL No.19, Aghalee District LOL No.2, Glenavy District LOL No.4, Magheragall District LOL No.9, Ballinderry District LOL No.3, and Derriaghy District LOL No.11.
The day will be filled with music, pageantry, and celebration as they gather to mark their shared heritage and values. The main parade will begin at 11:30am from the assembly field at Wallace Park and proceed to QEII / Ballymacoss Playing Fields (The Brambles).
The parade route is as follows, Wallace Park (Magheralave Road), Railway Street, Market Square (through the ceremonial arch), Market Street, Smithfield Street, Hillsborough Road, Governors Road, Longstone Street (Chapel Hill Roundabout), Thiepval Road, Prince William Road, Knockmore Road finishing at QEII / Ballymacoss Playing Fields, where the procession is expected to arrive at around 1:00pm.
Formal proceedings will commence at approximately 1:45pm and will include a short religious service by Wor. Bro. Rev. Stephen Kilpatrick, reflecting the Orange Institution’s commitment to Christian principles and faith.
Lisburn District is proud to welcome two distinguished speakers to this year’s platform Deputy First Minister and local MLA, Emma Little-Pengelly and Wor. Bro. Keith Harbinson (PAGM), Chairman of the Institution’s Recruitment & Retention Committee.
The return parade is scheduled to begin at 3:30pm, following the route of Knockmore Road, Ballinderry Road, Longstone, Chapel Hill and North Circular Road
DUNDONALDTwelfth celebrations in Killylea on July 12, 2024(Image: Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)
Dundonald Purple Vine LOL 1056 are proudly hosting the 2025 North Down Combine 12th July Celebrations on behalf of Holywood District LOL No 14.
The last time the 12th July Celebrations were held in Dundonald was 1967. At that time, the Demonstration Field was held in what was the old Polo Fields, these fields are now populated by Dundonald High School and we are delighted that the School Governors have kindly allowed us the use of these premises for this year’s Assembly and Demonstration Field.
39 Lodges and 28 bands will begin to parade from Dundonald Playing Fields at 12:15pm, Holywood District LOL No.14 will lead the parade with Dundonald Purple Vine LOL 1056 taking pride of place at the front of the District as host Lodge, followed by Newtownards District LOL No.4, Upper Ards District LOL No.11 and then Bangor District LOL No.18.
The Parade will exit the school grounds onto the Upper Newtownards Road (Country Bound Lanes), turning left onto Robbs Road before joining Church Road, Grahamsbridge Road, Comber Road (Belfast bound), before rejoining the Upper Newtownards Roads (City bound lanes from Ruby’s Bar to East Link Road junction) and Upper Newtownards Road (Country bound lanes Dunlady Road to Dundonald High School). It is envisaged that all Brethren and bands will be back in the Field for 2:00pm.
Platform proceedings will begin at 2:30pm. The platform party will include District Officers from the Combine, Wor. Bro. Joseph Kennaway BCM, Wor. Bro. David Brooks MLA, LOL 747, our two visiting District Mistresses and two members of the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland.
The Return Parade will commence at 4:30pm, leaving Dundonald High School Playing Pitches turning right onto the Upper Newtownards Road , Robbs Road, Church Road, Grahamsbridge Road, Comber Road. The Parade will officially conclude at the Comber Road / East Link road junction where Holywood District LOL No.14 will split and form a Guard of Honour for the visiting Brethren. The visiting Districts will continue on to their dispersal points after which, Holywood District LOL No.14 will form up again continuing along the Comber Road to Rubys Bar for the playing of the National Anthem thus concluding the festivities.
READ MORE: Twelfth of July Northern Ireland bank holiday bin collection and recycling centre detailsREAD MORE: How to watch Twelfth parades coverage on TVWhat is the weather for Twelfth of July in Northern Ireland?Bands and Orange men make their way through Belfast City Centre. (Image: Jonathan Porter/PressEye)
According to Met Office, it’s set to be a very hot bank holiday weekend across Northern Ireland with temperatures predicted to reach 30°C..
For Saturday, July 12, the weather forecaster said: “Another dry day with little or no cloud and unbroken sunshine. Temperatures rising quickly in the morning becoming hot or very hot in the afternoon, some refreshing sea breezes. Maximum temperature 30°C.”
Parade routes and traffic advice across Northern Ireland for Twelfth of July 2025Bands and Orange men form up at Carlisle Circus in north Belfast for the main Belfast. (Image: Jonathan Porter/PressEye)
Here are all details issued from the PSNI so far regarding traffic and travel for the Twelfth of July celebrations across NI 2025:
Belfast
There will be traffic disruption in Belfast this Saturday, 12th July, due to planned parades throughout the city.Small feeder parades will be held prior to the outward district parades, as follows:
- Sandy Row: The parade will commence at 8.45am at Sandy Row Orange Hall and move along Sandy Row, Hope Street, Bruce Street, Great Victoria Street and College Square East on to Wellington Place where it will join the main parade.
- North Belfast district parades: Carlisle Circus area from 9am onwards.
- East Belfast/ Ballymacarett: The parade will commence at 9.15am at Templemore Avenue and move along Newtownards Road, Bridge End, Queen Elizabeth Bridge, Ann Street, Victoria Street, High Street, Bridge Street, North Street, Peters Hill, Shankill Road, North Boundary Street and Denmark Street on to Carlisle Circus to lead the main parade.
- West Belfast/ Shankill: The parade will commence at 10.45am at West Belfast Orange Hall and move along Shankill Road, Peters Hill and North Street on to Royal Avenue where it will join the main parade.
- South Belfast/ Ballynafeigh: The parade will commence at 9.30am at Ballynafeigh Orange Hall and move along Ormeau Road, Stranmillis Embankment, Holylands, Botanic Avenue, Donegall Pass, Ormeau Road/Avenue, Linenhall Street, Donegall Square South, Donegall Square East and Donegall Square North towards the City Hall where it will join the main parade.
- The main Twelfth of July parade will commence its outward journey at 10am from Belfast Orange Hall in Carlisle Circus and move along Clifton Street, Donegall Street, Royal Avenue and Donegall Place to the City Hall, where a wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Cenotaph.
- At 10.50am, the parade will proceed along Donegall Square North, Donegall Square West, Bedford Street, Dublin Road, Shaftsbury Square, Bradbury Place, Lisburn Road, Balmoral Avenue and Malone Road into Barnett’s Demesne. At 3.30pm, the main parade will commence its return journey from Barnett’s Demesne. It will proceed along Malone Road, Balmoral Avenue, Marlborough Park, Lisburn Road. Bradbury Place, Shaftsbury Square, Great Victoria Street, Bruce Street, Bedford Street, Donegall Square North, Donegall Place, Royal Avenue, Donegall Street and Clifton Street, finishing at Carlisle Circus.
Districts will branch off back to their own areas at various points throughout the return parade.Additionally, Orange Fest will be held in the grounds of Belfast City Hall between 10am and 4pm.
Mid Ulster
Maghera
Delays should be expected in Maghera from around 11am on 12th July as parade participants and supporters arrive at Assembly Field (junction of Crewe Road and Station Road). At approximately 12pm the parade will leave the field and proceed along Station Road, Grove Terrace, O’Hara Road, Coleraine Road, Main Street, Church Street, Mullagh Road to the Demonstration Field on Mullagh Road.
At around 3:30pm the parade will form up again and proceed along Mullagh Road, Church Street, Main Street to the junction at Walsh’s Hotel. A number of bands will also proceed right along Coleraine Road and Crew Road to buses, whilst other bands will proceed left along Hall Street and Tobermore Road.
It is expected that the parade will disperse at around 4:45pm.
Augher
In Augher delays should be expected from 10am as participants and supporters assemble at Favour Royal Road. The parade will leave the Favour Royal Rd at around 1pm and proceed along Main Street into the Demonstration Field at Crossowen Road.
At around 4.15pm the bands will form up again and proceed along Crossowen Road to Main Street, and back to assembly area on Favour Royal Road for dispersal at around 5.45pm.
Coagh
Delays are expected in Coagh from around 11am as participants and supporters assemble at Ruskey Road. At approximately 12:30pm the parade will leave the Ruskey Road and proceed along Tamlaght Hill, Main Street, to the Demonstration field on Drumconvis Road.
At approx. 3:45pm the bands will form up again and proceed along Drumconvis Road to Main Street and Cookstown Road for dispersal at 5:15pm.
There will be some parking restrictions along the main parade routes and organisers have asked the Public to respect any area identified for blue badge holders or where Police No Parking Cones are placed.
Officers will be on the ground to accommodate the flow of traffic and to avoid potential delays.
Police also advised Street Traders wishing to do so along the route that they must have a valid Street Traders License issued by the local council and are asked to ensure that stalls do not encroach onto the road.
Fermanagh and Omagh
There will be disruption to traffic in the Fermanagh and Omagh District on Saturday 12th July 2025, due to the Annual 12th July 2025 celebrations, which include the Main demonstrations, feeder parades and associated celebratory events taking place within both areas. Kesh Delays are expected in Kesh from 10am as participants and supporters assemble at a commercial yard on Drumwhinney Road. At approximately 12:30pm the parade will leave the assembly point and proceed along Drumwhinney Road, Main Street, Station Road, Letterboy Road and into the Playing Fields on Letterboy Road. At around 3pm the bands will form up again and proceed along Letterboy Road, Station Road, Main Street, Rosscolban Avenue, Mantlin Road, Drumwhinney Road and finishing at Drumwhinney Road for dispersal at 5pm. Sixmilecross Delays are expected in Sixmilecross from 10am as participants and supporters assemble at the Assembly Field on Cooley Road. At around 12:30pm the parade will leave the assembly point and proceed along Cooley Road, Main Street, Tirooney Road and into the Demonstration Field. At around 3pm the bands will form up again and proceed along Tyrooney Road and Main Street. Some will return to the buses parked on the Altamuskin Road whilst the rest will return to the original assemble point on the Cooley Road for dispersal. There will be some parking restrictions along the main parade routes and organisers have asked the Public to respect any area identified for blue badge holders or where Police No Parking Cones are placed. Officers will be on the ground to accommodate the flow of traffic and to avoid potential delays. Police also advised Street Traders wishing to do so along the route that they must have a valid Street Traders License issued by the local council and are asked to ensure that stalls do not encroach onto the road.
Co Down
In Kilkeel, main demonstration parade participants will gather at the Orange Hall at 10.30am and travel along Greencastle Street, Newcastle Street, Newcastle Road to Leestone Road for a brief stop at the field before proceeding back to Newcastle Road, then to Newcastle Street, Bridge Street, Greencastle Street, Greencastle Road, Manse Road and into Queen Elizabeth II Park. The return parade, which is expected to move off from Queen Elizabeth II Park at 3.30pm will follow a route along Manse Road, Greencastle Street, Bridge Street, Newcastle Street, Mill Road then back to Bridge Street and Newry Street where some of the participating bands will disperse. The remaining bands and participants will then make their way along Hillside Drive, Newry Street, Harbour Road, Harbour Drive, Knockchree Avenue, Greencastle Street and finally to Greencastle Street for dispersal at the Orange Hall.
Meanwhile in Dundrum, the main demonstration there will begin at 11am with bands and supporters expected to gather on Belfast Road before travelling along Main Street to Old Road, finishing on Ballyloughlin Road. The Return parade will begin at 4pm at Ballyloughin R4oad and travel back to Belfast Road along the same route. There are also a number of smaller parades taking place in Newry and Ballynahinch, with both outward (morning) and return (evening) routes which may cause disruption for traffic. Motorists and members of the public should follow any direction and advice given by police.
Dromara
Road users are being advised to expect traffic disruption in Dromara this Saturday 12th July, due to a planned Twelfth of July parade. A feeder parade will firstly commence on the Hillsborough Road at 11.30am, and will effect traffic movements in the area. The main parade is then scheduled to begin at 12 noon on the Banbridge Road before moving onto Dromore Street – Rathfriland Road – the junction with Bridge Road. The first part of the parade will finish at 1.45pm, before the return parade begins at 4pm, until approximately 5.30pm. Officers will be detailed to ensure the safety of both participants and spectators, and to enable flow of traffic in and around the area. If you are not planning on attending the parade, please bear in mind the potential for delays in the area and if possible, please find an alternative route.
Scarva
We are advising the public to expect significant traffic disruption and delays in Scarva on Monday 14 July due to parades and the annual ‘Sham Fight’ taking place. Ninety bands with almost 5,000 participants are expected to parade through the village, with around 100,000 supporters anticipated. The parade will gather at 10.45am the Assembly Field on Gilford Road and then travel along the Main Street to Scarva Demense. The return route will leave Scarva Demense at 3.15pm. Diversions will be in place from 8.30am for public safety and roads will reopen at approximately 7.30pm. If deemed safe, roads may reopen sooner however members of the public should adhere to any instruction given by police regarding road closures and diversions on the day. For anyone not attending the parades, it is advised to avoid the area if possible.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon
Keady
We are advising the public of delays and diversions across the District over the Twelfth period due to a number of parades and other events taking place. In Keady bands and participants will gather for the main demonstration at 9.40am at Tassagh Road. They will then proceed across Kinelowen Street to Crossmore Road. The return procession will leave Crossmore Road at 2.45pm and move towards Tassagh Road. Some participants will disperse at Annvale Road and Bachelors Walk with the remainder making their way back to Tassagh Road. There are also a number of smaller parades in Armagh and Portadown on the day, with both outward (morning) and return (evening) routes, which may cause some disruption to traffic. Motorists and members of the public should follow any direction and advice given by police.
Antrim & Newtownabbey
There will be a number of parades taking place throughout the Antrim & Newtownabbey District over the July 12th period, with the main demonstration taking place in Glengormley this Saturday. The parade will begin at 11am on the Ballyclare Road and incorporate most of the town. The return parade will then begin at 3.30pm before finishing at 6pm on the Antrim Road and Ballyclare Road. There will also be the usual feeder and return parades in surrounding towns and villages. Those attending the main demonstration in Glengormley are reminded to follow the diversion signs. Signage will be in place in key areas, and only traffic participating in the parade (buses and Lodge cars) will be permitted to enter the town via the Antrim Road and Ballyclare Road. If you are not attending the parades this year, please bear in mind the potential for delays in these areas and if possible find an alternative route.
Causeway Coast & Glens
There will be a number of parades taking place throughout the Causeway Coast & Glens District over the July 12th period, with main demonstrations taking place in Coleraine and Rasharkin. In Coleraine, the larger feeder parade will begin at 9.15am at Union Street following a route to Waterside for the assembly of the main parade. The main parade will move off from Waterside at 11.15am with the outward route completing at approximately 2pm, before the return parade begins at 3.15pm and disperses at approximately 5.30pm. The main parade in Rasharkin will begin at 1pm and finish at approximately 6pm. Officers will be on the ground across all main parades and traffic management will be in place to assist with traffic flow. If you are not attending the parades this year please bear in mind the potential for delays. With the increased volume of traffic already on the roads due to The Open, it’s advisable to find an alternative route.
Dundonald
Road users are being advised to expect traffic disruption in Dundonald this Saturday 12th July, due to planned Twelfth of July parades. There will be a number of short feeder parades in the town from 9.30am onwards, before the main parade will begin at 12 noon, starting on the field at Dundonald High School. The route will incorporate the Upper Newtownards Road (country bound lanes) to Robbs Road – Church Road – Grahamsbridge Road – Comber Road – Upper Newtownards Road (city bound lanes) before finishing on Upper Newtownards Road ( country bound lanes via Dunlady Road back towards school). Those attending the main outward parade at 12 noon are encouraged to follow diversion signs in place to keep road users and pedestrians safe. Only traffic participating in the parade (buses and Lodge cars) will be permitted to enter the centre of the town. Officers will be detailed to ensure the safety of both participants and spectators, and to assist the public with the diversions, but please note that during the outward parade, the parade will significantly impact travel into and out of the Ulster Hospital. The public can however, access the Ulster hospital via the Newtownards road. Traffic from both Ards and Bangor areas will be encouraged to use the rear entrance to the hospital via the Craigantlet crossroads. If you are not attending the parades in Dundonald this year, please bear in mind the potential for delays in the area and if possible, please find an alternative route.
Mid & East Antrim
There will be a number of parades taking place throughout Mid & East Antrim District on Saturday, 12th July.
This year, the main demonstrations will take place in Ballymena, Carnlough, Cullybackey and Portglenone.
Road users should expect traffic disruption in these areas between 12pm and 2.30pm, and 4pm and 5.30pm; while the A2 coast road between Glenarm and Waterfoot will be closed between 12pm and 5pm.
Diversions will be signposted.
Officers will be on the ground across all main parades and traffic management will be in place to assist with traffic flow.
If you are not attending the parades, please bear in mind the potential for significant delays and seek an alternative route for your journey.
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