This year however, festival organisers, the Sandy Row Residents’ Association, have renamed the event as ‘The Healthy Twelfth’ to reflect plans to incorporate exercise and healthy eating throughout the festivities.

Highlights are set to include football training by Ballymena United captain Albert Watson, a cross-community tea dance, an historic walking tour of Sandy Row, a children’s fun day incorporating a climbing wall and organised games, and a day trip to Lisburn Omniplex, to name but a few events.

“We decided that we wanted to use this time to encourage people to be more active and eat healthier,” said Margaret Gibson, chairwoman of the Sandy Row Residents’ Association.

“As well as all of the physical activities taking place throughout the week, we are replacing the standard fizzy drinks and crisps that are served with fruit juice, bottled water, fresh fruit and low fat crisps. We promise any visitors to the Sandy Row Community & Cultural Festival that they will have a fun-filled and healthy time!”

Health Minister and South Belfast MLA Michael McGimpsey ,who will officially launch the festival on Friday, said he was “delighted” with the healthy theme.

“The desire of the organising committee to raise awareness around public health issues within Sandy Row is to be commended and I wish all involved in the festival every success for a fun, enjoyable occasion,” said Mr McGimpsey.

Anna Jess of the South Belfast Highway to Health, who is supporting the festival, said: “It is a great way to encourage the local community to watch their health through a good diet and exercise.”

The festival launches in Sandy Row Community Centre at 6.30pm on Friday, July 4.

Call 9023 8446 for more information.