Orange Day, also known as Orangemen's Day or The Twelfth, is a holiday celebrated primarily in

Northern Ireland and other parts of the world where there is a significant Protestant population with
roots in Ulster. It is held on July 12th each year and is a commemoration of the victory of the Protestant
William of Orange over the Catholic King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.

The holiday is marked by parades and other events organized by Orange Order, a Protestant fraternal
organization. These events often involve marching bands, colorful banners, and the wearing of
traditional Orange sashes and other regalia. While the celebrations are intended to be peaceful and non-
sectarian, they have often been a source of tension between Protestants and Catholics in Northern
Ireland, particularly in areas where the two communities live in close proximity.

The Orange Order has been criticized by some for promoting sectarianism and for its links to paramilitary
organizations. However, supporters argue that the organization provides a sense of community and
identity for Protestants in Northern Ireland, particularly in areas where they feel marginalized or under
threat.

Overall, Orange Day remains a controversial holiday that reflects the complex and often fraught history
of Northern Ireland. While it is an important cultural event for many Protestants, it is also a reminder of
the sectarian divides that continue to exist in the region.

The Twelfth of July marks the anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, which took place in 1690. The
battle was fought between the forces of Protestant King William III and Catholic King James II, and the
former's victory ensured Protestant dominance in Ireland.

Orangemen's Day is celebrated with parades, bonfires, and fireworks. The parades feature marching
bands, members of the Orange Order (a Protestant fraternal organization), and local dignitaries.

Orange is the color associated with the holiday, as it is said to represent William of Orange, the
Protestant king who defeated James II at the Battle of the Boyne.

While the holiday is primarily celebrated by Protestants, some Catholics also participate in the festivities,
and many businesses and schools in Northern Ireland are closed for the day.
The Twelfth of July is a public holiday in Northern Ireland, and it is estimated that up to 50,000 people
take part in the parades and celebrations each year.

The largest Twelfth of July parade in the world takes place in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and attracts
hundreds of thousands of spectators each year.