Belfast City Hall will come alive with family fun, cultural celebration and entertainment as Orangefest returns next week.
With the Twelfth falling on a Sunday in 2026, the annual parades and Orangefest celebrations will take place on Monday July 13, marking the 336th annual demonstration of the Battle of the Boyne.
Created to complement the traditional Twelfth celebrations, Orangefest was designed to encourage families, spectators, visitors and local people to enjoy Belfast city centre throughout the day.
Established in 2007, the event enhances the well-known Twelfth parades with a range of inclusive and engaging activities for all ages.
From circus performances and skills workshops to music and a ceilidh by local music act The Rogues the event, taking place in the grounds of City Hall, will run from 11am to 4pm.
Other activities will include garden games, kids colouring in and crafts tent and much more.
There will also be a selection of free food and drink vouchers available on a first come first served basis throughout the day.
Belfast County Grand Master Spencer Beattie said the team behind Orangefest are looking forward to welcoming people back into the city for this year’s celebrations.
He said: “Orangefest is about creating a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere in Belfast during one of Northern Ireland’s most significant cultural celebrations.
“With the parades taking place on Monday 13th July this year, we want to encourage families, visitors and locals to come into the city, enjoy the spectacle and make the most of what Belfast has to offer.
“Our aim is to complement the traditional Twelfth demonstrations with activities that are accessible, enjoyable and inclusive, while also supporting the city centre and local businesses.”
Orangefest is delivered in collaboration with the County Grand Orange Lodge of Belfast and is designed to promote understanding and respect for the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Northern Ireland.
Belfast Orangefest at City Hall on July 13 is funded by Belfast City Council.
For more information go to belfastorangefest.com
