Just nowShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleKeiron TourishNorth west reporter, BBC News NI
BBCThe annual Orange Order parade in Rossnowlagh is taking place in County Donegal.
Large crowds are in the seaside village for the demonstration which attracts visitors from across the island.
The Grand Master in Donegal David Mahon said there are stalls and food on offer and “a very relaxed atmosphere”.
“It’s always a carnival type of day with lots of families here enjoying a really good time,” he added.
The Rossnowlagh demonstration always takes place each year on the Saturday before the main Twelfth of July commemorations in Northern Ireland.
The Twelfth commemorates the Battle of the Boyne, when Protestant William of Orange defeated Catholic King James II in 1690.
Lodges from across Donegal, Cavan, Leitrim and Monaghan are taking part.
“It’s very important because it’s part of our culture and part of our faith.
“We welcome everyone here from across the community,” Mahon said.
The grand master said the Orange Order in Donegal always had a good relationship with its Catholic neighbours.
“That’s in terms of co-operation and some of them would be ringing us to see if we need the fields or land again for car parking or whatever.”
Gardaí (Irish police) are visible, mainly for traffic duties during a busy parading day.
Mahon said the order was going from strength to strength in the county.
Lorna Walker, from Randalstown in County Antrim, said:”I always love coming to this annual parade every year. I like supporting the lodges in County Donegal.
“Today the weather is going to make it as the sun is shining from early morning. Let’s hope everyone has an enjoyable day.”
Samantha Bates said: “We’re from Lisnaskea in Fermanagh and we enjoy it and love it every year.
“This is the first year our boys Matthew (13) and Jacob (7) are on parade with Cornafanog flute band so they are very excited and we are very proud as a family.”
Republic of IrelandCounty Donegal
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