THE past decade has had a significant number of centenaries to commemorate.

As with many other planned activities over the past 18 months, the celebrations of the Centenary of Northern Ireland’s existence have been on hold due to Covid-19.

Given the success of this year’s Twelfth of July and other events, that have been held mainly outdoors, it has been decided by County Fermanagh Grand Orange Lodge to hold a centennial festival this weekend to commemorate 100 years of Northern Ireland.

The event – to be held this Saturday, September 11, at the former TP Toppings yard – will include static exhibitions relevant to the past 100 years in Northern Ireland, with activities that include period drama and cultural displays by the Kilkeel-based Schomberg Society, the Regimental Band from East Belfast, the USC Historical Platoon, a cookery demonstration ‘through the years’ by Florence Creighton, Erne Highland dancers, local entertainers Joe Graham and Robert Pearson, local silver band musicians, and Florencecourt Flute Band.

A large open-sided marquee will be on-site to ensure activities have an overhead covering.

Entertainment for younger people will also be on-site for the day, which will include bouncy castles and other activities.

Portraits of King William III and Queen Mary II will be on display at the event, loaned by Fermanagh Museum.

Circuit parade

Festivities will begin at noon and the day will be rounded off by a circuit parade of Enniskillen, including vintage vehicles, floats, bands and Orange members from 7pm.

The NI100 Centenary Mini will be at the event and will lead the parade.

Entrance to the event is free; attendees will also receive a free souvenir programme and commemorative pin badges will be on sale.

The following day on Sunday, September 12, the annual County Fermanagh Grand Orange Lodge Murdered Brethren service and parade will take place.

As with other activities, the format of this has changed due to Covid-19, with the service being at the marquee at the former TP Toppings yard taking place at 2.30pm, with guest speaker Canon Alan Irwin, which will be followed by a circuit parade of Enniskillen.