Armed Forces Day Parade

Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day 2024: A day to honour and celebrate

‘Phenomenal’ was just one of the headlines for last year’s Armed Forces Day as it attracted more than 3,500 visitors.

Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day returns for 2024 and once again it’s at the glorious beachside location of Eastern Gardens in Ryde. The date for your diary is Sunday, 30th June — one day after the national Armed Forces Day.

Dore: Rest assured it’s going to be a stonker
Councillor Ian Dore, Armed Forces Champion and AFD committee chair, said this year’s event was shaping up to be just as jaw dropping.

He said,

“Prep started last summer, and we will be announcing the attendees over the next few months. Rest assured it’s going to be a stonker.

“There are thrilling air assets to inspire and excite, plus more on the ground to get interactive with. This includes engagement teams, live demos and of course live acts on stage.

“Throw into the mix a marching parade, the associated bands, military vehicles, kids activities, cadets and reservists and you have another top quality Armed Forces Day event coming your way.”

A chance to show your support
The Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day is 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, reservists, cadets and supporting registered charities, showing support for the Armed Forces provides a much-valued morale boost for the troops and their families.

The location itself provides the perfect opportunity to display land, sea and air assets at one of the most idyllic parts of the Island.

Dore: Two very special guests joining the programme
Councillor Dore added,

“We of course will be commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day with the inclusion into the programme of two very special guests, and an incredible musical performance from that era.

“Many from our Island made huge sacrifices and we must never forget the vital roles played by them and their families. We are forever in their debt for what they gave for the future generations, not only of our country but our Island.

“For now, block out the date for the official Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day. It’s going to be one of the must attend events of the summer.

“There is the website and the official Facebook page too. Over the coming weeks there will be more released on what the day consists of but in the meantime, there is a warehouse of photos to push out, so jump on to see if you can spot yourself in the crowd.” 


News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed