Twelfth in pictures and videos: Orange parades have been taking place across Northern Ireland
Tends of thousands have been attending demonstrations in 18 locations
Last updated 12th Jul 2024
Tens of thousands of Orange Order members have been on parade right across Northern Ireland for the traditional Twelfth festivities.
The largest Orange Order parades were in Belfast, as well as the Co Antrim coastal town of Carrickfergus, which boasts historic links to King William of Orange, who triumphed over King James II at the Boyne in 1690.
Ballymena, Newtownstewart, Londonderry and Killylea were also among the 18 locations hosting processions to mark the 334th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne.
The Orange Order's Grand Master Edward Stevenson, who is to take part in a parade in Newtownstewart, said the Twelfth is an event "like no other".
"Across the 18 venues, we will have tens of thousands of men, women and young people taking part in an event which has been faithfully maintained for well over 200 years," he said.
"Many thousands more will line the streets of host cities, towns and villages.
"There is simply no other event on these islands that can bring such vast numbers of people on to the streets as our processions, either by taking part or simply to watch them go by."
DUP leader Gavin Robinson described the traditions of the Twelfth as "spanning generations" and "intrinsic to who we are".
"It is about publicly expressing our faith, our culture, our heritage. It is about celebrating, respectfully, our identity," he said.
"In an increasingly diverse Northern Ireland, it is important that the Orange culture is celebrated positively, and afforded respect by all as we build a truly shared, tolerant society.
"As the leader of unionism, I will work across government in London and Stormont, as well as local council, to ensure this cultural celebration is supported and its potential harnessed for Northern Ireland.
"I wish all those taking part in or attending parades across Northern Ireland today, and indeed tomorrow at Scarva, a very enjoyable day."
Among the visitors was Secretary of State, Hilary Benn (see below).
Twelfth 2024
A spectator at the Twelfth Orange Order parade in Belfast
