Tens of thousands of loyal order members and 600 marching bands took to the streets of Northern Ireland for the annual Twelfth of July celebrations. This event, significant in the Protestant and unionist communities, commemorates the victory of King William of Orange over King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.
The festivities followed the traditional burning of bonfires on Thursday night, which took place at an estimated 300 locations in loyalist neighborhoods across the region. These bonfires, often decorated with flags and emblems, symbolize the lighting of beacons to guide William’s ships.
The parades featured participants dressed in traditional attire, with marching bands playing a variety of tunes. The largest events were held in Belfast, with smaller parades occurring in other towns and villages.
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the event was marked by a heavy police presence to ensure public safety and address any potential disturbances. The Twelfth of July parades are a longstanding tradition in Northern Ireland, reflecting the region’s complex history and cultural heritage.