Up to 30,000 people are marching in an Orange Order parade in Belfast to commemorate the centenary of the signing of the pro-Union Ulster Covenant.
Thousands of spectators have also lined the streets to watch the event, while a huge cultural festival is staged in the grounds of the Northern Ireland Assembly at Stormont.
The march and festival are being held to mark the 1912 proclamation against plans for Home Rule in Ireland.
A major security operation has been mounted, focusing on potential flashpoints along the route of the march.
Negotiations have been going on for months in Belfast to try and ensure the centenary is marked whilst not disrespecting the nationalist community.
The first leg of the marching past St Patrick's Church in the north of the city saw a group of catholic protesters gather with black flags and banners asking marchers to "Show Some Respect".
Despite some over exuberant drumming by band members those who had organised the protest felt reasonably content.
Frank Dempsey, leader of the Carrick Hill Concerned Residents' Committee, told Sky News: "It could have started something but happily it didn't."
"The only thing I'm hoping for on the return journey is that they keep it down a wee bit," he added.
The Parades Commission, which rules on controversial marches, has placed restrictions on both marchers and demonstrators by St Patrick's.
The church has been the scene of disorder during the summer after a band was accused of playing sectarian music outside on July 12.
Those taking part in the parade have been ordered to play only sacred music while passing the church.
A legal attempt at Belfast High Court by a resident to overturn the commission's ruling failed.
The number of protesters in the area has also been limited to 150 people.
The same music restriction has been placed on bands passing St Matthew's Catholic Church in Newtownards Road close to Stormont.
Politicians of all parties have appealed for calm at the event, which is set to be one of the biggest loyal order parades ever in Belfast.
Source: http://news.sky.com/story/990955
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