Chatham and Folkestone to celebrate Armed Forces Day 2024 with parades, music, classic cars and a Red Arrows display

Two huge events celebrating the people who make up Britain’s Armed Forces community are taking place this month.

The national event, which occurs on Saturday, June 29, is a way to thank those serving in the military and commemorate those who have lost their lives.

This year, the Historic Dockyard Chatham will be showing its appreciation by putting on a colourful parade, followed by live music, hands-on activities and vehicle displays.

These will all run alongside the dockyard’s usual attractions, such as the HMS Ganet and the RNLI lifeboat exhibition, many of which have ties to the military.

It’s the 15th year that the day is being honoured in Medway and it will return to the maritime landmark on Saturday, June 29.

Harinder Mahil of Medway Council said: “Armed Forces Day is always a brilliant chance for the community to come together and celebrate those who have served their country and those who continue to do so.

“Returning to the Historic Dockyard will make it an extra special day, which will be one to remember for everyone who comes down. We have a long historic connection to the armed forces, and we all want to acknowledge the importance of those links for families throughout Medway. Most importantly it will be a great fun-packed day, with something for everyone and all ages to enjoy.”

The following day, on Sunday, June 30, The Leas in Folkestone will be transformed into a bustling hub with food stalls, bars, charity stands, exhibitions and live music.

The event, which is free to attend, starts at 10am and features a varied programme of family activities.

The day will include a military band parade, lindy hop dancers, a flight simulator, a Spitfire display and music from the Military Wives Choir and an Andrews Sisters tribute act.

There will also be a 22-minute aerial display from the Red Arrows.

The entertainment continues into the evening with a free evening concert - you can register for tickets here.

The concert takes place at Leas Cliff Hall from 6pm to 9pm and must be booked in advance.