Armed Forces Day 2023 celebrations coming to Larne!

Launching the event recently was Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams with military personnel.

Larne will come alive with music, entertainment, military displays and spectacular aviation demonstrations this June, as Mid and East Antrim Borough Council hosts this year’s Armed Forces Day celebrations!

The hugely popular FREE military and musical spectacular will take place in Larne on Saturday 17 June at Sandy Bay Playing Fields.

Each year the event is held in the United Kingdom to celebrate the service of personnel in the British Armed forces both past and present. Thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond are expected to come out in force for the action packed day of entertainment for all ages.

The fun-filled day will kick off with a parade of 600 personnel to the venue and a drumhead service.

Launching the event recently was Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams with Alex (with guitar), Zach (with guitar), Ella (singer) Ben (drummer) all from The Music Yard - Larne’s award-winning music collective – who will be playing at the event.

Visitors will see first-hand the magnificent equipment used by the armed forces thanks to the interactive & static military displays showcased on the day.

All eyes will be skyward for the Spitfire and Hurricane World War II fighters, and a parachute display by the Silver Stars Royal Logistics Corps.

Thrilling music and entertainment will come from the renowned Band of the Royal Irish Regiment plus Larne’s own award-winners, The Music Yard, Swingtime Starlets and some sassy soul from The Gold Tips.

A 21 Gun Salute will mark the King’s official birthday plus the RAFP Military Working Dogs will be displaying their amazing talents and skills for visitors to the event.

With an incredible military village, Ulster Aviation Society aircraft on static display, children’s entertainment, funfair, food village, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) competition and theBeating the Retreat finale – this is one event not to miss!

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams, said:

“As a former Royal Air Force Wing Commander I could not be happier that our Borough will be hosting this year’s annual Armed Forces Day. MEA has a strong history supporting the armed forces and recognising the sterling work they do.

"We are planning a fantastic, fun-filled day out for all ages to show our appreciation and we look forward to welcoming visitors from all over to Larne.”

Information on the event and the travel plan can be found at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/AFD