GRAND ORANGE
LODGE OF IRELAND

Brethren, Sisters and Friends, 

 

The Twelfth of July is almost upon us and this year we will celebrate the 333rd anniversary of King William's victory at the Battle of the Boyne.

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I know that tens of thousands of people eagerly look forward to participating in our parades each year – and I am one of them.

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I do not believe there is any other event on these islands that can bring such vast numbers of people onto the streets as our processions, either by taking part or simply to watch them go by.

It is a custom which has been maintained for over 200 years, passed through generations, and will continue to be upheld for many years to come.

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We continue to welcome an increasing number of international visitors to our celebrations who are keen to experience first-hand the spectacle of the biggest day in the parading calendar. To assist them we have produced a ‘Digital Twelfth Special’ which can be downloaded below, giving details of all the venues, and includes articles on the history, heritage and culture associated with the Twelfth.

 

The high calibre of music provided by some of the finest marching bands in the country will certainly add to the festival atmosphere.

 

We are really looking forward to another glorious Twelfth. I myself am very much looking forward to joining the Brethren, Sisters, Juniors and bands at Loughbrickland - a venue with strong links to King William III and his journey to the Boyne.

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The 18 demonstrations on Wednesday, 12 July 2023, will be held in:

Ballinamallard, Ballycastle, Ballymena, Bangor, Belfast, Broughshane, Clogher, Comber, Coleraine, Dromore, Dungannon, Kilkeel, Loughbrickland, Lurgan, Magherafelt, Portglenone, Randalstown, Upper Ballinderry.

 

The Twelfth demonstrations will follow the traditional Rossnowlagh parade held in the Republic of Ireland on the preceding weekend. This year the annual Donegal procession takes place on Saturday, 8th July.

 

Edward Stevenson

Grand Master