Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen’s Day)

Battle of the Boyne, also known as Orangemen’s Day or The Twelfth, celebrates the troops of William of Orange defeating those of James II. Celebrations usually commence the night before with the lighting of bon fires, and parades are organised on the 12^th by members of the Orange Order, many people attend or watch the parades on TV.

Battle of the Boyne is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland only.

If the 12^th of July falls over a weekend, a substitute Bank Holiday is normally given on the following Monday. In 2026 the Bank Holiday for Battle of the Boyne falls on Monday 13^th July.