Manchester to mark Armed Forces Day 2025 with ‘poignant’ military parade this weekend
Armed Forces Day / Credit: Manchester City Council
Plans to mark Armed Forces Day 2025 with a ‘poignant’ military parade in Manchester this weekend have been revealed.
As the country prepares to honour Armed Forces Day – which is taking place this year on Saturday 28 June – and show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community across the country, Manchester has revealed how our city will mark the annual event this weekend.
Armed Forces Day sees Brits commemorate and celebrate those who are currently serving troops, their families, serving reservists, veterans, and cadets.
Manchester will also be paying tribute to the hundreds who have ‘fearlessly served’.
This year’s Armed Forces Day is particularly-special because it marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day) which happened on 8 May, and the upcoming Victory over Japan (VJ Day) on 15 August.
Mancunians are expected to line the streets as a parade made up of armed forces personnel, veterans, and cadets will begin a procession that will proudly march together through the centre of Manchester – with the Lancashire Army Artillery Band officially signalling the event opening at 11am, followed by the vibrant parade starting in St Peter’s Square at 11:30am.
Lord Mayor Carmine Grimshaw will then lead an inspection with dignitaries, with other ‘esteemed guests’ set to be in attendance including the Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester.
The Deputy Lieutenant will give a speech at 11:50am, before the honorary celebrations then continue with an afternoon of live performances, again by the lively Lancashire Army Artillery Band, alongside music hosted by BBC Radio DJ, Michelle Dignan until 4pm.
Historic military displays, and stalls from organisations including the NHS, Royal British Legion, and Manchester City Council’s own Armed Forces Covenant, will also be in attendance on the day to give visitors the opportunity to further support the armed forces community beyond just Saturday itself.
This Armed Forces Week we want to thank veterans and serving members of the armed forces community across Manchester for their incredible sacrifice and service.
— Manchester City Council (@ManCityCouncil) June 25, 2025
Get involved and share your message of thanks to family, friends or colleagues in the Armed Forces!
[1/2] pic.twitter.com/mBsBJJTR0o
On the ground, history will come to life through a special pop-up Military Museum tent.
Attendees can explore an engaging display of military vehicles, uniforms, artefacts, and personal stories that span the rich legacy of the British armed forces.
The Council hopes this immersive experience will offer a rare opportunity to connect with the past, understand the evolution of military service, and honour those who have shaped the nation’s history through their courage and commitment.
Read more:
- What’s the story of the iconic soldiers statue in front of Manchester Piccadilly station?
- Manchester Day is back with a ‘mammoth day’ of music-themed FREE fun next month
- Watch as one of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks turned into a ‘living statue’
Armed Forces Day 2025 takes place on Saturday 28 June, with commemorations to begin in Manchester city centre from 11am.
Featured Image – Manchester City Council