Bradford — 26–27 June 2026
SHAPE-UK ‘Remembering Together’ ARMED FORCES DAY (BRADFORD)
- When
- 7:00 pm to 4:00 pm
- Location
-
City Peace Garden, 71 Tanner Hill Road
Bradford
West Yorkshire
BD8 8LD
United Kingdom
This year, SHAPE-UK will continue to promote and highlight the Commonwealth contribution to Britain’s Armed Forces following the unveiling of the Commonwealth War Memorial Bradford, the first memorial of its kind outside London, in November 2024.
Through our Armed Forces Day programme, we aim to ensure greater recognition for servicemen and women from Commonwealth nations who fought in the two World Wars and played an important role in rebuilding Great Britain in the decades that followed. The event will celebrate the Armed Forces community while also educating the public about the shared heritage and sacrifices that underpin modern Britain.
Our events will showcase the diverse roles undertaken by the Armed Forces across history and in the present day. A military historian will present a curated collection of military memorabilia and historical resources, providing insight into how the Armed Forces operated in earlier eras. A photographic exhibition will highlight the global missions undertaken by British Armed Forces personnel, including peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, and international security operations.
As part of the programme, SHAPE-UK will deliver a roadshow across five locations during Armed Forces Week, culminating in a final exhibition and community event. Armed Forces units will be invited to participate with interactive displays featuring military transport, equipment, and information on career opportunities within the Forces. Cadet organisations will also play an active role in inspiring younger generations. Visitors of all ages will have opportunities to take part in activities led by Armed Forces volunteers and reservists.
A specially produced collection of short films exploring the history of the Armed Forces and the vital contribution of Commonwealth personnel will be screened at multiple venues during Armed Forces Week. Local Armed Forces units will host stalls and interactive displays, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about military service and the diverse roles undertaken by personnel across the Forces. Visitors, service personnel and guests will also be able to enjoy refreshments while engaging with the exhibitions and displays. A pop-up heritage exhibition will further enrich the experience, offering insight into the shared history, service and sacrifice of both UK and Commonwealth forces.
Building on the success of last year’s event, members of the public will again be encouraged to bring relatives’ war medals and memorabilia to be digitised as part of our heritage preservation initiative. Volunteers and staff will also record personal stories from veterans and community members, helping to create a growing digital archive that preserves these memories for future generations and shares them with audiences across the UK.
Throughout the programme, banners and displays will honour both UK and Commonwealth veterans. Dedicated spaces will also allow members of the public to meet Armed Forces personnel informally, learn more about military life, and personally express their appreciation.
Further details about event locations, venues and talks taking place during Armed Forces Week will be published on the SHAPE-UK website and across our local and social media channels closer to the week. Please keep an eye out for updates and we look forward to welcoming you to the events.