The Grand Master of the Orange Order has warned those intent on causing trouble over the Twelfth celebrations to "stay away".
Edward Stevenson, who has held the role of Grand Master since 2011, has urged anyone taking part in events not to use it as an "excuse to show hatred or intolerance to the beliefs or culture of others".
Addressing anyone who is intent on stirring up tensions, he said: "Stay away from our events and don’t take part in any activity which would bring the Orange Institution into disrepute.
"Such behaviour has no place at our events which have traditionally been a community celebration and an opportunity for families to enjoy time together in the company of others from the wider Orange community.
"Whilst most of the are not organised by our members, they are part of the wider Twelfth celebrations - and it is therefore incumbent on all taking part that they do nothing which endangers life or property or besmirches the cause they are meant to herald – King William lll’s victory at the Battle of the Boyne."
Speaking to Belfast Live ahead of the annual celebrations, the Co Tyrone dairy farmer said tolerance and respect for traditions is key to peace in NI.
He added: "The Twelfth of July is a celebration of our beliefs, history and culture – it is not borne from, or must it be used as an excuse to show hatred or intolerance to the beliefs or culture of others. Tolerance and respect for varying opinions and traditions must be central to a peaceful Northern Ireland.
"This can only be achieved by education and engagement so that all parts of our community can at least understand the values and traditions of others."
Mr Stevenson, a father-of-three from Ardstraw, said there are still issues to be resolved around parading.
He added: "It's no surprise that I’d like to see a more fair and equitable solution to the issues associated with the parading tradition in Northern Ireland. This Institution has long held the view that the current structures are not fit for purpose and need to be replaced.
"I also aspire to see the organisation flourish and continue to be an integral part of society in Ireland – North and South. I believe that Orangeism is returning to its rightful place in community life, a place that had been diminished and dominated by the Troubles."
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