President Mary McAleese is hosting a reception in Áras an Uachtaráin this evening to mark the anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne.
The Twelvth commemorates the victory of Protestant King William III over his Catholic father-in-law, King James II. The battle was fought on a site near the river Boyne, outside Drogheda, Co Louth in 1690.
As thousands of Orange Order members march across Northern Ireland and some parts of the Republic today, Mrs McAleese will holst 350 guests in the Aras.
The guests come from all parts of the island will have an opportunity to visit a living history display recreating a battle camp typical of the 1690s.
Entertainment will also be provided by the Drogheda Brass Band, renowned flute player, Reverend Gary Hastings, traditiontal singer, Brian Mullen and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. Today's is the ninth such reception hosted by Mrs McAleese on July 12th.