Around 50,000 Orangemen, bands and supporters will take part in celebrations across Northern Ireland today.

3,000 police officers will be on duty to staff the events throughout the day.

Their largest presence will be at three flashpoints in north Belfast, east Belfast and in the city centre.

The celebrations are the high point of the Orange Order marching season, and are traditionally held on July 12th each year.

However, when it falls on a Sunday events are held on a Monday.

Elsewhere, the Orange Order expects large crowds at the parade in Bessbrook in Armagh.

Chief Constable George Hamilton says violence is not inevitable, but he is calling for calm.

Meanwhile Gerry Kelly of Sinn Fein says Northern Ireland is closer now than ever before on reaching an agreement on flags, parades and the past.

He says it is important respect is shown on both sides so events can pass peacefully.