Battle of the Boyne 2020 in the United Kingdom

Is Battle of the Boyne a Public Holiday in Northern Ireland?

Battle of the Boyne is a public holiday in Northern Ireland according to Holidays 2020. A day off is granted to the general population on this day, and most of the public institutions and organisations remain closed on this day.

Battle of the Boyne Day in the Pages of History

Battle of the Boyne Day history holds relevant significance and commemorates the beginning of its observance. As it has been mentioned, the Battle of the Boyne Day occupies a special place in the pages of history. The battle actually took place on the banks of the river Boyne near the township of Dorgheda, belonging to the eastren coast of Ireland. The mighty battle took place between James II, the deposited King of England and Ireland, known as James VII Scotland and William III, who acquired the crowns of Scotland and England in 1689. The battle ultimately resulted in the victory of William III.

Consequently, King James failed to regain the British crown which led to the prevalence of a Protestant form ascendancy in Ireland. This war in which the forces of James II and William III collided had religious overtones as both of them belonged to the different sects of Church or Christianity. While James II was a Catholic and his followers were called Jacobites. However, there were many Jacobites who eventually became followers of Protestantism. Since King William is also known as William of Orange, this day also came to be known as Orangemen Day, after the Orange order to commemorate his victory over James II.

Even though the celebrations take place on the 12th of January every year, the battle actually took place on 1 July, 1690. However, the date was altered when the UK started to follow the Gregorian Calendar in 1752, as a result of which several dates were mapped to the new calendar without any proper corrections. Ever since then, the folks of Northern Ireland continue to celebrate Battle of the Boyne Day on the 12th of July every year. Hence, the day also came to be known as “The Twelfth”.

Battle of the Boyne Quick Facts

As this day is a public holiday in Northern Ireland, Battle of the Boyne celebrations are commemorated very holistically by the common folk of Northern Ireland. The lodges affiliated to the Orange order specifically take part in the organisation of the marches on this day. Banners are also carried by lodges, which display their name and number on one side. At the same time, the other side of the banner includes William of Orange’s images, local landmarks, the names of deceased members or the bible along with a crown.

In the parades or marches that take place, the Orange order members also carry banners and flags of Northern Ireland. Additionally, they are accompanied by bands who keep marching and playing drums and popes at the same time. The folks who come out to participate are often seen wearing dark suits. At the same time, Orangemen are seen donning an impressive look: orange collarettes, bowler hats, white and gloves. The celebrations do not remain limited to Northern Ireland only, as the festivities are also seen taking place in other parts of the UK like Wales and Scotland.

Battle of the Boyne Observances

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