It was decided that due to
the this success the Pageant would become an annual event. These annual
re-enactments continued but in 1952 so many people came to take part in the
Pageant that the narrow streets in Carrickfergus could not cope. Some
visiting Orangemen were unable to leave the railway station such was the
size of the crowds.
It was decided to revive
the event in 1969 but this turned out to be a one of occasion.
The current Pageants began
in 1982 when Carrickfergus District Lodge together with neighbouring
Districts decided to hold a pageant.
Thousands of pounds have
been spent on costumes over the years and the Pageant has become a major
event in the Orange calendar.
Although the parade is
still organized by Carrickfergus District Lodge the actual pageantry is
organized by Carrickfergus Historical Re-enactments Group and is supported
by Carrickfergus Borough Council.
Each year this group
endeavours to improve the Pageant and the latest addition is a Fife and Drum Band in period
costume. |