16/06/2026
BATTLE OF THE SOMME – 1ST JULY 1916
One of the epic battles of World War I in which the gallant 36th Ulster Division so courageously fought.
Since the early 1920’s Ballymacarrett District LOL No.6 has commemorated this event on the same date every year. Often this parade is mistakenly referred to as the “East Belfast Mini 12th”. This is incorrect and the significance of this Memorial Parade should be observed with remembrance, dignity and gratitude.
The parade will be led by veteran Orangemen and members of the Ladies Association, along with members of our Junior organisation in WW1 uniform, wearing the ‘old style’ Orange sash. They will be accompanied by the Regimental Band of the UVF, 1912. Over 1,000 Orangemen, women and juniors will join in the commemorations with approximately 32 bands. Brethren from Ballynafeigh District LOL No.10, Belfast Clifton Street LOL No.3 & 4 and from further afield will also be in attendance.
The parade will commence at 7:30pm from Templemore Avenue onto Albertbridge Road, Ravenhill Road, My Lady’s Road, Willowfield Street, Castlereagh Road, Clara Street, Beersbridge Road, Bloomfield Road, North Road, Kirkliston Park, Holland Drive, Upper Newtownards Road, North Road, Dundela Avenue, Belmont Road, Holywood Road, Newtownards Road and back onto Templemore Avenue.
At approximately 8:30pm a wreath laying ceremony will be held at Strandtown War Memorial at the junction of Holywood Road and Belmont Road to honour those brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in WW1. All lodges and bands will be invited to lay a wreath and pay their respects.
We would encourage spectators to wear a poppy at this year’s Somme Parade; the poppy signifies a visual respect for our fallen soldiers and supports the Armed Forces community.
Ballymacarrett District LOL No.6 need your help.
The past few years has seen an alarming rise in crowds of young people consuming alcohol and encroaching on the parade. The crowd encroachment is most prevalent along the Newtownards Road between McDonalds and the Skainos Centre.
Participants and spectators are encouraged to respect the parade and remain on the footpath, allowing the Brethren, Sisters and bands to march unhindered with pride and reverence. Encourage our community and young people to understand the reason for the parade and why it must be respected.
Belfast City Council will, as always, assist members of Ballymacarrett District LOL No.6 with the clean-up operation following the parade.
An awareness raising campaign will be in place to highlight the importance of the Battle of the Somme Parade, including respecting the parade, remaining on the footpath and where to access toilet facilities.
It is the responsibility of all of us to make this Memorial Parade welcoming and attractive for all.
Why not consider joining your local lodge and be part of it rather than simply watching. Visit the Museum of Orange Heritage, Schomberg House, to learn more about your culture, heritage and history.
Let’s all make this parade the pride of East Belfast.
