On the march during the annual Royal Black Institution parade in front of huge crowds enjoying the sunshine in Scarva.placeholder image
On the march during the annual Royal Black Institution parade in front of huge crowds enjoying the sunshine in Scarva.

Scarva 2026: Video and 53 of the very best pictures from Royal Black Institution's huge annual parade and Sham Fight

More than an estimated 100,000 people descended on the Co Down village of Scarva for the annual Royal Black Institution’s annual July ‘Thirteenth’ parade and Sham Fight.

As July 12 fell on a Sunday this year, the traditional July 13 celebrations in Scarva were held on Tuesday.

The Scarva-based preceptory, Sir Knight Alfred Buller Memorial RBP 1000, had the honour of leading the parade, accompanied by Waringsford Pipe Band.

More than 70 marching bands - comprising pipes, accordions, flutes, and silver - accompanied around 4,000 members of the Institution in the procession preceding the Sham Fight.

The day of music, pageantry and culture attracts visitors from all over Northern Ireland and beyond and this year’s they were blessed with glorious sunshine as they gathered to watch the huge parade and the re-enactment of the historical battle between King William III and King James II.

Related topics:
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice