About
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is delighted to announce that Armed Forces Day 2026 will take place in Coleraine on Saturday 20 June 2026, from 10am to 4pm.
This major civic celebration will honour the service, dedication and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community, bringing together residents and visitors for a memorable day of ceremony, entertainment and family-friendly activities in the heart of Coleraine Town Centre.
Delivered in partnership with representatives from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, the event will recognise serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets and their families who continue to play a vital role in protecting and supporting the United Kingdom at home and overseas.
Highlights include:
Military parade through Coleraine
Drumhead Service is taking place in the Diamond at 11am
Interactive military displays and armoured vehicles
RAF flypast (subject to operational availability), including the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota
RAF Falcons parachute display
Live music and performances throughout the day
206 (Ulster) Battery Royal Artillery Feu de Joie across the River Bann
Finale concert in the Diamond of Band, Bugles, Pipes and Drums of the Royal Irish Regiment
For more information and the full programme, visit Armed Forces Day | Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council
Armed Forces Day 2026 – FAQs
When is Armed Forces Day taking place?
Armed Forces Day 2026 will take place on Saturday 20 June 2026 from 10am to approximately 4.30pm in Coleraine Town Centre and Christie Park.
Is the event free to attend?
Yes. Armed Forces Day is a free public event and everyone is welcome to attend.
What can I expect on the day?
Visitors can enjoy a packed programme of military displays, live music, family entertainment, interactive exhibits, military vehicles, pipe bands, a military parade, RAF Falcons parachute display and a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota flypast.
What time does the parade take place?
The main military parade will step off from Coleraine Leisure Centre at 11.30am and proceed through Coleraine Town Centre before arriving at Christie Park at approximately 12 noon.
What time is the RAF Falcons parachute display?
The RAF Falcons parachute display is scheduled for approximately 12.15pm, subject to weather and operational requirements.
What time is the gun salute?
There will be a gun salute at 2.00pm. Please be aware that there will be loud noises for a very short period of time.
What time is the Dakota flypast?
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota flypast is currently scheduled for approximately 3pm, subject to operational and weather conditions.
Is there a quiet session?
Yes. A Quiet Time Session will take place in Christie Park & The Mall from 10.15am to 11.00am, offering a more relaxed environment for visitors who prefer reduced noise and activity levels.
Can I access Christie Park before the event starts?
No. Christie Park will be closed to the public from early morning on Saturday 20 June to allow for event set-up, safety checks and security measures ahead of Armed Forces Day.
This means the park will not be available for routine activities such as dog walking, exercise or recreation during this time.
The park will open to event attendees as part of Armed Forces Day once the event begins.
Is there a Free Park and Ride
A free Park and Ride service will operate from 7.00am to 6.30pm.
Location Rugby Avenue Playing Fields Rugby Avenue (off Mountsandel Road) Coleraine, BT52 1LJ
Drop-off locations
· New Market Street
Accessible shuttle buses will operate throughout the day.
Park and Stride
Visitors can also make use of the free Park and Stride facilities, allowing a short walk to the event space.
Locations
· Vineyard Church, 10 Hillmans Way, Coleraine, BT52 2ED
· The Crescent Playing Fields, The Crescent, Coleraine, BT52 2DS
Stewards and event signage will be in place to assist pedestrians along the route.
Visitors are encouraged to use public transport where possible.
Is there accessible parking?
Accessible parking for Blue Badge holders is available throughout Coleraine town centre car parks. Parking is available from 8.00am.
Additional temporary accessible parking will be available at:
· The Market Yard
· Killoween Green (Strand Road)
Advance booking is required for temporary accessible parking spaces.
To book, please contact Portrush Visitor Information Centre on 028 7082 3333. Please note that bookings can only be made by telephone and is booked on a first come first serve basis.
Can I travel by public transport?
Yes. Coleraine Bus and Train Station is approximately a 10-minute walk from Christie Park. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport where possible.
Will there be road closures?
Yes. Temporary road closures and traffic management measures will be in place throughout the day to facilitate the event safely.
The following roads will be closed:
Kingsgate Road
Church Street
The Diamond
Park Street
New Row
Society Street
Stone Row
Abbey Street
Bridge Street
Queen Street
Strand Road
A single lane closure will be in operation adjacent to Christie Park, from the Old Bridge to the junction with Killoween Primary School.
Newbridge Road Dual Carriageway
One lane of the dual carriageway will be closed adjacent to the Rugby Avenue Park & Ride facility (left-hand lane travelling from the A26 Ballymoney Road towards Coleraine).
Resident access will be maintained where possible, and clearly signposted diversion routes will be in place
Visitors are advised to allow extra travel time as delays are expected in and around Coleraine town centre and Christie Park.
Are dogs permitted?
Well-behaved dogs are welcome; however, owners should be aware that loud noises may occur throughout the day, including military displays, live music, ceremonial gunfire and aircraft activity. There is a gun salute at 2.00pm so please be mindful if you have your pets with you.
Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The event will proceed in most weather conditions. However, some activities, including aircraft displays, may be altered or cancelled if weather or operational conditions require.
Will the event be suitable for children?
Yes, the event is family friendly and suitable for all ages
Where is First Aid located?
First Aid will be available throughout the event site, with support from St John’s Ambulance and NI Ambulance Service.
Where are the toilet facilities?
Public toilets are available at Park Street, Christie Park and additional portoloos will be located throughout the event space, including at the Park & Strike and Park & Ride facilities.
What about disabled facilities?
Public disabled toilets are available at Park Street. Disabled portoloos will also be available throughout the site.
