Orangefest 2025 set to bring culture, community and celebration back to Belfast City Hall

A vibrant programme of family-friendly entertainment will take over the grounds of Belfast City Hall on Saturday 12th July 2025 as part of this year’s Orangefest celebrations.

Running from 10am to 3.30pm, the event has been carefully curated to complement the 335th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne demonstration, widely known as the Twelfth parade.

Since its establishment in 2007, Orangefest has aimed to foster greater inclusivity and community engagement around one of Northern Ireland’s most prominent cultural dates.

(L-R): Gavin Robinson MLA, Belfast, County Grand Master and Orangefest director Spencer Beattie, Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly, Orangefest director William Hughes, Deputy Chief Executive of Belfast City Council Sharon McNicholl and Minister for Communities Gordon Lyons

Image: Ephy McConnell

This year’s festival promises to deliver a bustling city centre celebration filled with culture, colour and creativity. From circus performers to international cuisine, the event showcases a wide variety of experiences designed to appeal to all ages.

Street theatre, international flavours and cultural reflection

A major highlight of Orangefest 2025 will be a vibrant international food market, coordinated by Food NI and set up on the East Lawn of City Hall. The market will offer a taste of both local and global flavours, complemented by live cooking demonstrations for food lovers throughout the day.

The streets surrounding City Hall will come alive with award-winning street theatre and Circusful performers, featuring stilt walkers, mono wheel acrobats, clowns, and world drummers — all adding an energetic and family-friendly flair to the city’s core.

(L-R): Kirsty McReynolds from Circusful, Belfast County Grand Master and Orangefest director Spencer Beattie, Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly, Orangefest director William Hughes and Deputy Chief Executive of Belfast City Council Sharon McNicholl

Image: Ephy McConnell

Belfast County Grand Master Spencer Beattie welcomed the return of the festivities, noting the importance of cultural celebration in a modern and inclusive way.

“This year, we once again want to encourage families, visitors and locals to stay and enjoy the city centre. Orangefest is all about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports both cultural expression and local business,” he said.

Mr Beattie also highlighted that many city centre retailers have committed to extending their opening hours from 1pm to 5pm on the day, encouraging visitors to make the most of what Belfast has to offer.

Heritage tours and acts of remembrance

In addition to music and entertainment, guided tours of Belfast City Hall will run throughout the day, giving visitors the chance to explore the building’s historic interior and learn about its significance.

At 10.30am, a remembrance service and wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Belfast War Memorial, coinciding with the main parade passing through the city centre. The service aims to honour those who lost their lives during the world wars and other conflicts.

The city will also be adorned with vibrant street dressings and banners created by Image Zoo, adding a bold visual identity to the celebrations and enhancing the festive atmosphere.

A vision for cultural inclusion and growth

(L-R): Belfast County Grand Master and Orangefest director Spencer Beattie, Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly, musician and songwriter James Gouldie and Orangefest director William Hughes

Image: Ephy McConnell

With a new three-year strategy underway, Orangefest organisers are determined to expand the event into a year-round programme that champions cultural awareness and economic regeneration.

“Orangefest enhances the globally recognised Belfast 12th which is considered one of the largest events in Europe,” added Mr Beattie.

“The activities at City Hall not only highlight the cultural significance of the day but also promote unity and economic growth. Through Orangefest, we aim to remove barriers, foster mutual respect, and create a positive and inclusive environment for all citizens and visitors.”

For more information, visit belfastorangefest.com.