Get ready for Armed Forces Day in Portsmouth

This year, Portsmouth hosts its huge Armed Forces Day celebration on 21 June, with a host of displays, performances and parades headed to Southsea Common.

The event is free and un-ticketed, so visitors can just turn up on the day and get involved in the activities.

If you're thinking of making the journey, here's all the key information you'll need.

   

What is happening at Armed Forces Day?

There will be loads to see and do at Armed Forces Day 2025 - so be sure to allow plenty of time!

Perhaps the most exciting of all is the full Spitfire display from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Team. They will take to the skies in the truly iconic aircraft for a breathtaking show that may also feature a Hurricane, Dakota and Lancaster, alongside the famous Spitfire.

That's not all, as the day will also feature a Royal Navy ‘Raiders’ parachute jump, a full military parade led by the Rose and Thistle Pipe Band and dog shows - all within the main arena.

Elsewhere there'll be a dedicated Bike Arena where BMX specialists will show off their tricks, plus a Field Gun Arena to host further displays.

The 6 Regiment Army Air Corps Reserves will bring a static Gazelle helicopter, there’ll be a tactical wing supply from Joint Helicopter Group, plus displays and stalls from veterans, charities and military organisations.

For the youngsters there's a climbing wall - back by popular demand - as well as funfair rides to purchase.

   

When is Portsmouth Armed Forces Day?

The big event takes place on Saturday 21 June - one week before the national Armed Forces Day celebration. Activities will run throughout the day from 10am to 4pm. See the Visit Portsmouth or PCC social media channels nearer the time for a specific breakdown of event timings (subject to availability).

   

Where is Portsmouth Armed Forces Day?

All events will take place on Southsea Common, in the large section near the Naval Memorial.

Please note that due to ongoing coastal defence works the promenade road is currently closed between Blue Reef Aquarium and the Hovertravel terminal. This also means a large number of parking spaces along the seafront are no longer available. Please bear this in mind when you travel and allow plenty of time for your journey.

Portsmouth Park and Ride will be in operation during Armed Forces Day, providing a quick, easy and stress-free way to get into Southsea from the M275.

   

Armed Forces Day sponsors

It's only possible to deliver an Armed Forces Day event at this scale (and to keep it free to attend) with help from sponsors.

BAE Systems continues its commitment to Portsmouth's Armed Forces Day as headline sponsor for the event and will be providing the catering for the veterans.

Snows BMW & MINI Portsmouth is a supporting sponsor, and will bring a selection of electric vehicles from across the range to view on the day.

Additionally, Toob will be at the event, so too Yarty Cordials and Tea Mountain who will be providing drinks for the veterans.