Personnel from the Royal Navy waving in front of a union jack

Armed Forces Day 2026

The Royal British Legion is delighted to support Armed Forces Day.

It's a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.

What is Armed Forces Day?

Armed Forces Day is the annual opportunity for us all to come together in recognition and celebration of the wonderful service provided by our regular and reservist soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, past and present, and the families that have supported them in turn.

Taking place on the last Saturday of June, Armed Forces Day marks the end of a week of celebrations. First observed in 2006, the annual event was formerly known as Veterans’ Day before changing to Armed Forces Day in 2009. Recent hosts have included Cleethorpes, Falmouth and Scarborough, with events featuring military parades, displays from current service personnel, music and sport taster sessions. 

Hero image ©UK MOD Crown Copyright 2020

Key dates

  • Reserves Day:  Wednesday, 24 June 2026
  • Armed Forces Day:  Saturday, 27 June 2026
  • National Event Location in 2026: Aldershot and Farnborough

Armed Forces Day Events Across the UK

Celebrations will take place across the UK, with military displays, parades, and entertainment in more than 100 locations, including Aldershot (National Armed Forces celebration in 2026), Scarborough, Cleethorpes and London.

Find Armed Forces Day events near you

Three uniformed personnel walking across a bridge
©UK MOD Crown Copyright 2020

Show your support at the National Memorial Arboretum

The National Memorial Arboretum are marking Armed Forces Day with a range of fun family activities from 27 - 28 June 2026.

Visit their website for more information.

Armed Forces Day at the National Memorial Arboretum
©UK MOD Crown Copyright 2020
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