Thousands gathered in Coleraine on Saturday 20 June as the town hosted a successful Armed Forces Day 2026 celebration, bringing together residents, visitors, serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets and military families for a day of commemoration, recognition and community celebration.
The event, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in partnership with military and community organisations, transformed Coleraine Town Centre, Christie Park and the River Bann into a vibrant hub of activity, with a packed programme of military displays, live entertainment and family-friendly activities taking place throughout the day.
Formal proceedings began with a Drumhead Service and wreath-laying ceremony at the War Memorial in The Diamond, providing an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces community, past and present. The atmosphere then shifted to celebration as crowds gathered to watch the Armed Forces Day Parade led by the Royal Irish Regiment, make its way through the town centre.
Hundreds of serving personnel, veterans and cadets received a warm reception from spectators lining the streets before making their way to Christie Park. Earlier in the day, visitors enjoyed a dedicated Quiet Time Session featuring a Family Fun Zone, soft play area and interactive military displays, ensuring the event was accessible and welcoming for all.
One of the highlights of the day came shortly after midday when spectators turned their attention to the skies for the arrival of the RAF Falcons parachute display team. Their spectacular descent over Coleraine proved to be one of the most anticipated moments of the event and drew enthusiastic applause from crowds gathered across the town.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors explored the Military Village in Christie Park, met members of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, viewed military vehicles and aviation exhibits, and took part in a wide range of family activities and demonstrations.
Well-known broadcaster and media personality Paul Clark compered the event, guiding visitors through the day's programme of commemorative events, military displays and entertainment.
From the morning parade and formal proceedings through to the afternoon activities, Paul helped bring the event to life for those in attendance.
Live entertainment from Ballroom Blitz, Rock Choir, Harpurs Hill Steel Band and the Swingtime Starlets created a lively atmosphere in Christie Park, while performances from the RAF Band Ensemble and the Band, Bugles, Pipes and Drums of the Royal Irish Regiment entertained audiences on The Diamond Council Stage.
Across the town centre, pipe bands and drum majors added to the celebrations with a series of pop-up performances in Christie Park, The Mall and Kingsgate Street, ensuring there was something to enjoy around every corner.
Activity on the River Bann proved popular throughout the afternoon, while a ceremonial gun salute by 206 (Ulster) Battery Royal Artillery provided a powerful reminder of the traditions and heritage associated with the Armed Forces.
The celebrations concluded with a much-anticipated flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota aircraft, providing a fitting tribute to Britain's aviation heritage and generations of service personnel.
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Dawn Huggins, said: "Armed Forces Day 2026 was a tremendous success and it was wonderful to see so many people come together in Coleraine to recognise and celebrate the contribution of our Armed Forces community.
"The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the dedication, professionalism and sacrifice of serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets and military families, while also offering a fantastic day of entertainment and activities for residents and visitors of all ages.
"I would like to thank everyone who attended, along with the many organisations, volunteers, performers, military personnel, emergency services, community groups and council staff whose hard work and commitment helped make the event such a success.
"Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council would like to thank all event partners, Armed Forces representatives, veterans' organisations, community groups, volunteers, performers and members of the public who contributed to the success of the event.
"Council would also like to acknowledge the support of local businesses and residents throughout the planning and delivery of Armed Forces Day 2026."
Brigadier Piers Ashfield DSO MBE, Commander 38 (Irish) Brigade, added: "Armed forces day here in Coleraine has been a wonderful opportunity to recognise the dedication and professionalism of our people, and to thank the public for their continued support.
"Seeing so many local people come together with serving personnel, veterans and their families is a fitting tribute to those who serve.
"It's a real highlight of the close bond between the armed forces and the communities they serve. The warmth and turnout is exactly what days like this are about."
Armed Forces Day is a national moment to honour the men and women who make up the armed forces community, from those currently serving to veterans, cadets and their families. The Army is proud to have played a central role in this year's event, showcasing its people, its capability, and its enduring connection with communities across Northern Ireland.