They carry banners and are often accompanied by brass bands. The climax of the marching season is July 11, when huge bonfires are lit in loyalist areas throughout Northern Ireland. The Orange Order acts as the focal point for many people's social lives in Northern Ireland. It is through the lodges that meetings, lectures, band practice and social events like dances are organised. There are also junior lodges and women's lodges.
Lodges traditionally have monthly meetings, to which entry is sometimes by secret password.
The gatherings begin with prayers or bible readings and conclude with the singing of God Save the Queen.