The Drumcree dispute originated from a contentious Orange Order march that aimed to pass through the predominantly nationalist neighborhood of Portadown. This march was met with fierce opposition from local residents, who viewed it as a provocative display of unionist supremacy in a historically divided region. The refusal to allow the march to proceed went against the longstanding tradition of such parades, igniting tensions that had been simmering for decades, rooted in issues of identity, sovereignty, and power-sharing in Northern Ireland. As the Orange Order prepared for the march, protests erupted, primarily in Catholic nationalist areas, where feelings of injustice and anger were already heightened.

For five consecutive days, protests escalated into violent riots, with numerous incidents of civil disorder reported. Protesters barricaded streets, set fires, and clashed with police, who attempted to enforce order through the use of riot control measures. The unrest was marked by gun battles and stone-throwing incidents. The situation drew national and international attention as images of the chaos flooded the media, highlighting the ongoing strife in Northern Ireland and the complexities surrounding national identity and territorial claims.

The five days of violent protests became emblematic of the broader struggles between nationalist and unionist communities in Northern Ireland. Participants voiced a wide array of grievances, from sectarian discrimination to economic disparities, showcasing the multifaceted nature of the conflict. The riots and protests indicated that despite the peace process being underway, deep-seated divisions continued to lead to violent confrontations. This escalation of violence at Drumcree highlighted the fragility of the situation in Northern Ireland and would influence discussions around peace negotiations and community relations moving forward.