Armed Forces Day 2026 Northern Ireland: RAF flypast, 'Falcons' parachute display and gun salute lined up for Coleraine
Thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland are expected to descend on Coleraine for this year’s Armed Forces Day as a vibrant line-up featuring a flypast by the iconic RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota is revealed.
Another planned highlight will be a display by the UK’s premier military parachute team, the RAF Falcons, including falls at speeds of up to 120mph.
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has announced further details of the popular event, taking place on Saturday, June 20, from 10am to 4pm.
The annual day of celebration, which always attracts large crowds, recognises the service and dedication of the Armed Forces through a programme of free entertainment, displays and activities. It is delivered in partnership with representatives from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force.
A full day of activity will begin with a military parade through the town at 11am, bringing together Service personnel, veterans’ organisations and cadet units. A drum head service will follow, with the parade arriving at Christie Park at approximately 12 noon.
Christie Park will host a wide range of attractions throughout the afternoon, including interactive military displays, armoured vehicles and opportunities to meet serving personnel.
Highlights will include a Royal Air Force flypast, currently expected to feature the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota, alongside a parachute display by the RAF Falcons.
Additional highlights will include live musical performances, a nine-round Feu de Joie fired across the River Bann by 206 (Ulster) Battery Royal Artillery, and a range of military exhibits. The event will culminate in a Beating Retreat at 4pm by the Band, Bugles, Pipes and Drums of the Royal Irish Regiment.
Aircraft participation is subject to operational availability and will be confirmed closer to the event.
Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Richard Brown Stewart, said the council is “delighted” to host the event.
"Our borough has a strong and long-standing connection with the Armed Forces, so I know it will be a great source of pride for many residents to host Armed Forces Day in Coleraine.
"We look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland to Coleraine on Saturday, June 20."
Air Marshal Sean Reynolds CB CBE DFC RAF, Air Officer Northern Ireland, said: “I am delighted to announce that the widely recognised UK’s premier military parachute Display Team, the ‘Falcons’ will showcase the excellence of the Royal Air Force at the Armed Forces Day 26 with their exciting free fall display, which includes advanced manoeuvres, falling at speeds up to 120 mph.
"The ‘Falcons’ will be accompanied by the iconic RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight C47 Dakota flypast at what is promising to be a fantastic day out at Coleraine with special thanks to our hosts at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. As ever it is a unique opportunity to engage with the people of Northern Ireland and demonstrate how the Armed Forces protects our people and endeavours to add value.”
Causeway Coast and Glens Veterans’ Champion, Councillor Dawn Huggins, added: “Armed Forces Day is an important day in the military calendar. It is a day when we come together to honour the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of the men and women who serve, and those who have served, in our Armed Forces.”