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Twelfth of July Celebrations Underway Across Northern Ireland

Tens of thousands of people are attending parades across Northern Ireland as the annual Twelfth of July commemorations take place. The event marks the Protestant King William III's victory over the Catholic King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.

  • Parades are taking place in 18 venues across all six counties in Northern Ireland
  • The event commemorates King William III's victory over King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690
  • Tens of thousands of people are expected to attend the parades

The annual Twelfth of July celebrations are underway across Northern Ireland, with tens of thousands of people expected to attend parades in 18 venues across the six counties. This year marks the 336th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, which saw the Protestant King William III defeat the Catholic King James II in 1690.

The parades, which are the biggest day in the Orange Order's marching calendar, will see members of local Orange lodges joined by visiting lodges from Scotland and further afield. The main parade in Belfast is set to start at 10:40 BST at Donegal Square West, while parades will also take place in Maguiresbridge in County Fermanagh and Newtownhamilton in County Armagh.

In the lead-up to the parades, hundreds of bonfires were lit on Saturday and Sunday night to mark Eleventh night, a tradition observed by many unionist communities. However, some of these bonfires have caused controversy due to their height or location, or because they contain symbols considered offensive.

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has spent over £1.4m in the past four years to protect and repair homes and property close to bonfires. While most Eleventh night bonfires pass without incident, some have been the subject of controversy and concern.

Why this matters: The Twelfth of July celebrations are an important part of Northern Ireland's cultural heritage, and the events surrounding them often attract international attention.

What this means for you: What this means for you: The Twelfth of July celebrations may affect travel plans and road networks in Northern Ireland, particularly in areas where parades are taking place. It's essential to check for any road closures or travel disruptions before heading out.

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