Orange Order: ‘Get ready for a 12th of July like no other’ - ‘2020 12th at Home’ revealed

The Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland has revealed details of its programme of events for Twelfth of July celebrations with a difference - owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The health crisis will see the Orange Family mark the 330th Anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne at home as restrictions in place means that all traditional Twelfth of July parades and gatherings have been cancelled.

But as an alternative, Grand Lodge has produced a digital package of resources and ideas under the banner of ‘2020 12th at Home’.

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Central to the celebration will be four days of digital radio broadcasting as Grand Lodge launches ‘Radio Boyne’.

See Orange Standard hereIn June’s editorial the online paper tells readers that ‘the programme of events to mark the 330th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne has been unveiled’.

‘A dedicated section of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland website is now live, packed with ideas of

ways you can mark the ‘2020 12th At Home’.

‘Celebrate Online. In Your Home. At Your Door. That’s the message his year.

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‘A few weeks ago, it was unclear just what our Twelfth celebrations would look like. But now we have a full and engaging programme of events, offering a range of activities that include all members of the Orange Family - young and old.

‘The current restrictions - even under the slight easements we ave seen in recent weeks - would

not permit any kind of gathering remotely comparable to a traditional Twelfth of July parade.

‘The medical advice is that Coronavirus likes crowds. In fact, it thrives in situations where people are in close contact with each other.

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‘That is why we have been living with the strict social distancing guidelines.

‘So, for 2020, your garden at home becomes your Twelfth field!

‘Have a picnic with the family, decorate your home with bunting, fly your flags proudly, and if you’re fortunate enough to have a few family members that are musically gifted let them entertain you.

‘Radio Boyne is a very exciting

project.

‘Four days of digital broadcasting is a big undertaking but one that will no doubt receive the

support of the Orange Family.

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‘While new ideas are wonderful to see, it is important that the traditional elements of our Twelfth day are respected and observed.

‘Plans are being made for coverage of the Resolutions and also a Twelfth Church Service’.

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