Excitement builds as plans for Plymouth Armed Forces Day are announced

19th March 2026

Plymouth is marching ahead with preparations for this year’s Armed Forces Day, as the epic programme was unveiled today at an energetic launch event.

A thrilling abseil by Commandos from the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines, marked the official countdown to Plymouth Armed Forces Day, exactly 100 days before celebrations take place on Plymouth Hoe.

Today’s launch highlighted the exciting plans for interactive military displays, parades, demonstrations and entertainment for Armed Forces Day, held in association with defence company Babcock International Group (Babcock), owner and operator of Devonport Royal Dockyard. It’s the perfect reminder to mark Saturday 27 June in the diary.

Guests at the launch event watched the exhilarating display from the RM Barracks Stonehouse, as Commandos abseiled down the walls of the Eastern King Fort, carrying the Armed Forces Day flag and displaying the Babcock flag.

The Armed Forces Day flag was then presented to the Lord Mayor, Councillor Kathy Watkin, in a dramatic finale, setting the tone for this popular annual celebration. The Lord Mayor was joined by representatives from title sponsors Babcock, Plymouth City Council, and members of the Tri-Service, Veteran and Cadet Communities.

Plymouth Armed Forces Day is an opportunity to celebrate and show support for the men and women who make up our Armed Forces community. More than 45,000 visitors are expected to flock to Plymouth Hoe to enjoy the free, family-friendly event.

This year’s line-up will see an action-packed day, with an all-day arena and stage programme, parades, interactive displays, military vehicles and equipment, exciting demonstrations, and entertainment for all ages.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries, Events, Cemeteries and Crematoria, said: “Armed Forces Day brings our whole community together. It’s a brilliant day out for visitors and families, but above all it’s a chance to recognise the incredible commitment of those who serve in our armed forces.
“Plymouth has a long and proud military history, and we are grateful to Babcock and all our sponsors for supporting this special event and helping us celebrate the people who protect us.”

John Gane, Managing Director of Babcock’s Devonport facility, said: “We are immensely proud to stand with our Armed Forces at a time when their dedication to protecting our nation has never mattered more. As a long‑standing title sponsor of Plymouth Armed Forces Day, a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, and an employer of many veterans and reservists, we’re strong supporters of the military community. We’re delighted to help bring people together and to celebrate the work of our military colleagues and those who work alongside them.”

30 Commando Information Exploitation Group Royal Marines, said: “The Royal Marines are honoured to support Plymouth Armed Forces Day, standing alongside the Army, Royal Air Force, veterans, and our cadet organisations. We share a longstanding and valued relationship with the City of Plymouth, and this occasion provides an important opportunity to reaffirm that enduring partnership.

“Armed Forces Day allows us to recognise the collective contribution made in the defence of the UK - whether through Global operations or our continued support to the people and communities of Plymouth.”

Plymouth Armed Forces Day will open at 10am, with the Parade of Standards at 11am - open to all veterans - led by the City of Plymouth Pipe Band as Veterans and Cadets march across the Hoe Promenade.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities throughout the day, including the Royal Navy Dive Tank, and opportunities to talk with personnel from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Air Force and British Army. Members of the Fire Service, Devon and Cornwall Police, RNLI and Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Plymouth will also be in attendance with hands-on equipment to explore.

The Veteran’s Village, supported by the Royal British Legion, will host charities, businesses and organisations offering advice and support for serving personnel, veterans and the wider community. Explore the many exciting displays and entertainment.

Foster for Plymouth, sponsors of the pre-school entertainment, will provide free activities for young children, including glitter tattoos and appearances from popular characters. The team will also be available in the marquee to speak with anyone interested in fostering in Plymouth.

Entertainment throughout the day includes: Cadet bands and drill displays, Junior Field Gun tournaments, demonstrations from REORG Jiu Jitsu, and live music from the City of Plymouth Pipe Band, Military Wives Choir, Armed Forces Choir, Rock Choir and more.

The live music continues into the evening with a free outdoor music concert from 5.30pm to 10.30pm, sponsored by C&G Catering, featuring performances by local artists: Marmalade, The Vibes and Riviera Dogs. The evening will conclude with a dazzling performance by Authentic Elton, guaranteed to get the crowd singing and dancing along to iconic hits.

For all the latest information about Plymouth Armed Forces Day, visit: plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk. For further information about Babcock International, visit: babcockinternational.com