Twelfth celebrations hailed as “momentous” by Grand Orange Lodge with record crowds across NI

Lodges from North Londonderry, City of Londonderry and East Donegal this year gathered in Coleraine to mark the 335th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne.

All images: Graham Baalham-Curry

The Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, Most Wor. Bro. Edward Stevenson, has described this year’s Twelfth of July commemorations as a “momentous Twelfth with the largest crowds witnessed for a generation”.

Parades and festivities marking the anniversary of the 1690 Battle of the Boyne were held at 18 locations across Northern Ireland, drawing thousands of participants and spectators.

Orange Lodge members were joined by several hundred marching bands in colourful processions that spanned towns and cities across the province.

Reflecting on the scale and significance of the event, Mr Stevenson said:

“We have been blessed with a great day, and I trust that all those taking part or attending our events had an enjoyable time with their family and friends. I am delighted that we have again witnessed a huge level of support with a great many tourists and visitors from across the UK and further afield in attendance.”

The Twelfth of July, which commemorates the victory of Protestant King William of Orange over Catholic King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, remains one of the largest cultural celebrations in Northern Ireland, drawing local and international interest each year.

(L-R); Rev. Brian Hassan, Limavady District Chaplain; John Sproule, District Lay Chaplain Coleraine No 2; James Evans, County Grand Master Co. Londonderry, Marshall Goligher Worshipful District Master Coleraine No 2; Rev. Joseph Andrews County Grand Chaplain County Londonderry; Mark Callaghan, District Treasurer Coleraine No 2; Norman Edgar, District Treasurer Coleraine No 2.

“Few events have the enduring attraction of the Twelfth,” the Grand Master continued. “In this modern age, the scale of our annual celebrations remains a testament to the shared sense of community identity and cohesiveness of the Orange family.”

The Grand Orange Lodge extended gratitude to all those who contributed to organising and stewarding the events, many of whom had worked for months behind the scenes to ensure a safe and successful celebration.

“I wish to personally thank all those who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes for many months to ensure the Twelfth runs according to plan. We are grateful for the ongoing support of those who work on the day to keep us safe including the PSNI and other emergency services.”

As the day concluded, Mr Stevenson praised the cultural significance of the Twelfth and looked ahead to next year’s commemoration.

“We should be rightly proud of this unique cultural tradition, and we look forward to joining together again next year to celebrate the 2026 Twelfth.”