12th July, From 10.00 am to 4.00 pm, Belfast City Hall & Royal Avenue

Welcome To Orangefest Belfast 2024

About Orangefest

Orangefest is a vibrant celebration that runs alongside the annual 12th of July parades in Belfast. 

Established in 2007, Orangefest aims to foster a peaceful and harmonious society by celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Northern Ireland. 

The event is dedicated to making the 12th of July a family-friendly occasion, enhancing the well-known parades with a variety of inclusive, entertaining activities. 

Each year, Orangefest attracts thousands of participants and spectators, contributing significantly to the local economy and tourism.

Mission

Our mission at Orangefest is to create an inclusive, family-friendly celebration that promotes understanding and respect for the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Northern Ireland. 

We aim to enhance the well-known 12th of July celebrations by providing additional activities that are educational, entertaining, and accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and togetherness in Belfast.

Vision

Our vision is to build a peaceful and harmonious society within Belfast, where the diversity of cultures is celebrated and respected. 

We aspire to make the Belfast 12th a globally recognised event that not only highlights the cultural significance of the day but also promotes unity and economic growth. 

Through our efforts, we aim to remove barriers, foster mutual respect, and create a positive and inclusive environment for all citizens and visitors.

Objectives

Enhancing Cultural Celebration

  • Promote Inclusivity and Education: Organise cultural activities that are inclusive, educational, and celebratory, ensuring they cater to all age groups and backgrounds.
  • Annual Competitions: Host an annual children’s art exhibition and writing competition to encourage creative expression and cultural understanding among young people.

Strengthening Community Engagement

  • Family-Friendly Events: Ensure the Belfast 12th is managed and promoted as an inclusive family event, enhancing its accessibility and appeal to a broader audience.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Establish effective working relationships with all stakeholders, including community groups, businesses, and government bodies, to foster a collaborative environment.

Fostering Multicultural Relationships

  • Cultural Inclusivity: Develop strong relationships with multicultural groups to promote understanding and respect for the diverse cultures within Northern Ireland.
  • Community Activities: Organise community activities that bring together various cultural groups, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Boosting Tourism and Economy

  • Tourism Promotion: Enhance the tourist potential of Belfast by making the 12th of July celebrations a significant event on the international tourism calendar.
  • Economic Impact: Support local businesses by ensuring retail shops, eateries, and other service outlets remain open during the festivities, boosting the local economy.

Operational Excellence

  • Strategic Management: Maintain a robust management and advisory structure to oversee the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of Orangefest.
  • Sustainable Funding: Seek sustainable funding sources, including sponsorship and support groups, to ensure the long-term success and growth of Orangefest’s initiatives.

Overcoming Challenges

  • Addressing Barriers: Work tirelessly to remove barriers and build relationships that encourage conditions for inclusivity and mutual respect.
  • Continuous Improvement: Reflect on achievements and disappointments to continuously improve the organisation’s activities and outreach efforts.

Future Vision

  • Progressive Strategy: Implement a progressive strategy document to guide the organisation’s efforts from 2024 onwards, focusing on financial sustainability and increased cultural activities.

Community Commitment: Demonstrate an unwavering commitment to moving society forward together, ensuring Orangefest plays a vital role in building a peaceful and harmonious community.