Wakefield Armed Forces Day returns this weekend

Wakefield Armed Forces Day will take place this weekend on Saturday 4 July from 10am-4:30pm at Pontefract Park as part of the UK-wide Armed Forces Day celebrations.

This free, family-friendly event offers visitors a packed programme that celebrates the contribution of serving and veteran members of the armed forces and the wider armed forces community.    

Cllr Rebecca Webster, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Safer Stronger Communities, said: “Wakefield Armed Forces Day will be a fun packed and free day out for all the family to enjoy. And most importantly, it gives people an opportunity to show their support for the Armed Forces and the outstanding work they do for our country.”

The event will feature a Military and Veteran’s Parade comprised of veterans, serving personnel, cadets, and standard bearers accompanied by music from The Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment.

This year, visitors can enjoy a special Battle of Britian Memorial Flypast, with Squadron Leader Al Luckins flying Spitfire MkVb AB910 over the event site. This plane was flown during D-Day in the Second World War.

There will also be two fantastic Free Fall Parachute Displays from the Wings Free Fall Team. Please note the use of drones and kites is strictly prohibited at this event due to aerial activity.  

In the main arena, compered by Rhubarb Radio, there will be a fantastic programme of activities visitors can enjoy watching including a Tug of War, Cadet Drills and performances from The Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment.

The Military Village is back, where visitors can discover more about the capabilities and traditions of the armed forces by speaking to serving military and cadets. There will be also a market with traders selling an assortment of delicious food, drinks, homemade crafts and gifts. There will also be street food vendors and an onsite bar where refreshments can be purchased.

If the weather is warm people are advised to bring drinks, shade, sunscreen and hats. Well-behaved dogs on a lead and their owners are also welcome.  

Find out more about the event at https://experiencewakefield.co.uk/event/wakefield-armed-forces-day/

There is onsite parking at Pontefract Park on the event field. There will be signage in place and parking attendant staff on hand to assist. The play area car park will be reserved for Blue Badge Holders only. It is expected to be a busy during Wakefield Armed Forces Day so we recommend car-sharing or using public transport where you can.