Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day)
Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day) 2027 falls on Monday 12 July. In 2028, Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day) falls on Wednesday 12 July.
The dates of Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day), this year and in the years ahead.
When is Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day)?
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Saturday, 12 July 2025Day off: Monday, 14 July 2025 |
| 2026 | Sunday, 12 July 2026Day off: Monday, 13 July 2026 |
| 2027 | Monday, 12 July 2027 |
| 2028 | Wednesday, 12 July 2028 |
| 2029 | Thursday, 12 July 2029 |
| 2030 | Friday, 12 July 2030 |
| 2031 | Saturday, 12 July 2031Day off: Monday, 14 July 2031 |
Dates calculated from the statutory rules. Source: GOV.UK: UK bank holidays. More about our sources
What is the Battle of the Boyne holiday?
On 12 July, Northern Ireland has a bank holiday to mark the Battle of the Boyne. The battle was fought in the late seventeenth century near the River Boyne in Ireland, between the Protestant King William III (William of Orange) and the Catholic King James II, whom he had replaced on the throne. William's victory became an important symbol for Protestants and unionists in Ireland.
The day is also known as Orangemen's Day or simply 'the Twelfth'. It is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland only.
The Twelfth and its parades
The Orange Order and other loyal orders hold parades with marching bands in towns across Northern Ireland. For many in the Protestant and unionist community it is a celebration of their heritage and culture. Some parades have been contested over the years, and arrangements are overseen by the Parades Commission. The evening before, the Eleventh Night, bonfires are lit in many places.
A lot of people take their summer holiday around the Twelfth, and some businesses close for a week or two.
Substitute day
If 12 July falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday becomes a substitute bank holiday. The table above shows the actual date and, where it applies, the substitute day.
Frequently asked questions
When is Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day) 2027?
In 2027, Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day) falls on Monday 12 July.
Is Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day) a day off?
Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day) is only a public holiday in: Northern Ireland.
Is 12 July a bank holiday in England?
No. The Battle of the Boyne holiday is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland only.
What happens if 12 July falls on a weekend?
Then the following Monday is a substitute bank holiday in Northern Ireland.
Am I entitled to a day off on a bank holiday?
There is no statutory right to time off on a bank holiday. Whether you have the day off, and whether you are paid extra if you work, depends on your contract. Employers may include bank holidays in your statutory annual leave.