Ballymena Twelfth

Get ready for an unforgettable day as Ballymena gears up to host its annual Twelfth of July celebrations, a vibrant display of heritage, music, and community spirit. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, as 29 lodges and 17 musical bands, complete with the thunderous rhythms of the Lambeg drums, come together in a spectacular show of pageantry.

In a momentous first, Ballymena District LOL. No. 8 will proudly join forces with Cullybackey District LOL No. 20, marking an exciting new chapter in the history of the local Twelfth.

The streets of Ballymena will be filled with colour, sound, and celebration as not just the senior lodges, but also two Ladies’ Lodges, two Junior Boys’ Lodges, and a Junior Girls’ Lodge take to the parade route with pride, Sister Turtle Memorial WLOL 14,Ferniskey WLOL 74, Ferniskey Rising Sons JLOL265, The Duke of Edinburgh Memorial JLOL 621 and Daughters of Ferniskey JWLOL 55 (making their first ever appearance!)

This incredible level of participation showcases the growing strength and generational pride within the Orange Institution.

Ballymena stands out proudly as the only town in Northern Ireland to host a Twelfth demonstration every single year, alongside Belfast’s well-known city parade. It’s a tradition deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the town—one that continues to thrive and evolve.

The honour of leading the 2025 celebrations goes to Slatt LOL 475, who will head the parade accompanied by the ever-popular Pride of the Maine Flute Band—celebrating an incredible 50 years of stirring music and marching excellence!

The parade will assemble at Wakehurst Road at 12:30pm, setting off on a lively and scenic route through the town, passing along Larne Road, Larne Street, Henry Street, over the iconic Harryville Bridge, through Waveney Road, Galgorm Road, the bustling Pentagon, then down Lower Mill Street, Wellington Street, Ballymoney Street, and finally Thomas Street, arriving at The People's Park for the main festivities.

Essential amenities such as toilets and a first aid post will be available both at the assembly point and within the demonstration field to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all.

The Platform Proceedings will take place at 2:30pm, once the main parade concludes, all eyes turn to the platform at The People's Park. A religious service and stirring speeches will be delivered by esteemed guests including Wor. Bro. Henry Dunbar, visiting from Scotland andWor. Bro. Rev. Ian McClean, Grand Chaplain, who will lead the religious service

This is more than a celebration—it’s a moment of reflection and fellowship.

The afternoon will also see prizes awarded to those who shine brightest, Best Band on Parade, Best Turned-Out Lodge and Best Lambeg Drums.

With so much passion and pageantry on display, competition will be fierce—and friendly!

This year’s event also shines a spotlight on several key milestones with Dunnygarron LOL 960 proudly unveilling their new banner, The Pride of the Maine Flute Band celebrates their 50th Anniversary, a legacy of dedication and musical excellence and the debut of the new Junior Girls’ Lodge, the Daughters of Ferniskey JWLOL 55—a promising sign of future generations carrying on cherished traditions

Whether you're a lifelong participant or a first-time visitor, the Ballymena Twelfth is an experience like no other. With tradition, talent, and community pride on full display, this year’s celebration promises to be a highlight of the summer calendar. Be there to witness it all—from the marching feet and vibrant banners to the echoing beat of the Lambeg drums and the cheers of a proud town united.

Entrance Fee