The combine, which consists of Antrim, Carnmoney, Carrickfergus, Cloughfern, Killead, Larne, Randalstown, Sixmilewater and Staffordstown District Orange Lodges, has organised the Glorious Twelfth 08' Festival which incorporates numerous events for all the family.

Leading up to the parade on July 12, local people can enjoy a 'Roots Exhibition' on Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5 ay Ballyrobert Orange Hall, from 7pm to 10pm on the Friday, and 10am to 12 noon on the Saturday.

The exhibition will explore the common roots, heritage and links between the Ulster, American and Scots people. It will cover the Covenanters, emigration to America, the Ulster Home Rule crisis, WWI, WWII, through to the present day. An exhibition of American and British Flags will be on display.

An American Independence Day Picnic will take place at Burnside Orange Hall (Antrim) on Saturday, July 5 from 2pm to 5pm. The fun day will include music, food and games for all the family.

The 11th Night Family Bonfire celebration in the rural location of Ladyhill just outside Antrim, will include Kiddies amusements, music, Tug o War competition and the traditional bonfire lighting at 11pm. Activities start at 9pm.

The Twelfth Demonstration in Ballyclare has the motto for the day: "This is the day that the Lord has made we shall rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118 verse 24).

The parade will start at 11am from the Foundry Lane playing fields and make its way through the town to the Sixmilewater River Park which is located on the Mill Rd.

There will be nine Orange Districts with a total of 71 lodges on parade. They will be accompanied by various bands from the East Antrim area and also visiting bands from Scotland.

The main parade features members of the Orange Order, banners depicting historical and Biblical scenes, marching bands, and Lambeg drums. At the field there will be musical entertainment provided by the Calvary Quartet and Cairncastle Ulster Scots folk group, The Grouse Beaters.

There will also be children's amusements and face painters in the gield.
The parade will leave the field at 3.15pm for the return parade through the town.

This parade always attracts a large crowd of spectators and visitors are advised to arrive at the town early to allow time to get a good spot to watch the event.

Anyone wishing to have a stall in the field should write to Mr Jim Robinson PO Box 45, Ballyclare, County Antrim for an application pack.
The events have been organised in conjunction with Sixmilewater Cultural Society, and they express sincere thanks to the Ulster Scots Agency, Newtownabbey Borough Council, and Antrim Borough Council for all their help and assistance.

Sixmilewater District LOL hopes that everyone who participates in any of the festival events has an enjoyable time.

BALLYMENA

The parade is due to assemble at the Waveney Road car park, and go through the town to Ballee Playing Fields. Rev. Victor Ryan, Grand Chaplain of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland will be guest speaker at the service, with Rev. Ian McClean presiding. It is anticipated that approximately 20 bands will be taking part.

With Ballymena's various drumming lodges, the Lambegs should be heard for miles around, all adding to the special atmosphere of the Twelfth in Ballymena.

BROUGHSHANE

The Braid District No. 18 will hold their parade for the Twelfth in the village of Broughshane.

At mid-day, Beechvale on the Ballymena to Broughshane Road will see the gathering of 12 lodges and bands, including at least three sets of lambeg drums. The parade route will lead to the Rathkeel Road, with Assistant Grand Master David McNarry guest speaking.

CULLYBACKEY

The Triangle demonstration in Cullybackey will be a small family occasion, with a variety of bands, and 17 lodges taking part.
The parade will start at 1pm, and travel from Ardnamaine to the football field at Cullybackey Community Centre.

The religious service will be conducted by Samuel McKay, the District Chaplain.

With such a small community celebrating the event together it should be a great day, especially as so many families are connected through the Orange Order.