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Military celebrations are coming to the Historic Dockyard Chatham for Armed Forces Day 2025

A historic attraction will be paying tribute to veterans and the families of those who have served on the frontline with a commemorative event.

This year’s Armed Forces Day at the Historic Dockyard Chatham will see a huge military parade make its way through the naval site as crowds gather to show their support.

The Armed Forces Day festivities will return to Medway’s maritime attraction at the end of June. Picture: Historic Dockyard Chatham
The Armed Forces Day festivities will return to Medway’s maritime attraction at the end of June. Picture: Historic Dockyard Chatham

The event, which has become an annual staple of Medway’s maritime attraction, will pay tribute to the 80th anniversary of both Victory in Europe and Victory over Japan, two significant moments of the Second World War.

The day starts at 10am, when visitors will be welcomed through the gates to enjoy a programme of music from retro singers and live bands.

There will also be family entertainment and activities throughout the day and a formal military parade that starts at 12.30pm.

The schedule is completed by a drumhead service, where piled drums will be draped with flags, and the beating retreat, with a pageant of military music and precision drills, at 4.30pm.

HMS Gannet, along with a number of other attractions, will still be open at the dockyard during Armed Forces Day. Picture: Historic Dockyard Chatham
HMS Gannet, along with a number of other attractions, will still be open at the dockyard during Armed Forces Day. Picture: Historic Dockyard Chatham

While some areas of the dockyard will be closed, the RNLI Historic Lifeboat Collection, No.3 Slip, Museum Square, Ship Compounds, Tennis Court Lawn, HMS Gannet, Mess Deck and Wagon Stop Restaurant will all be open during the day.

The event takes place at the Historic Dockyard Chatham on Saturday, June 28. You can book tickets here.

Armed Forces Day is a nationwide event that takes place on the last Saturday in June. It is a chance for the public to show their support for the Armed Forces community, from those who are currently serving to young cadets, veterans and family members.

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