Scarborough Prepares for Armed Forces Day Celebration

An RAF Typhoon will be flying over Scarborough on Saturday as well a Spitfire and Tiger Moths as the town holds it's annual Armed Forces Day event.

The event in South Bay aims to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse Armed Forces community, encompassing currently serving troops, service families, veterans, and cadets, providing a "much valued morale boost" to those who serve.

The day's programme is packed with displays and ceremonies, commencing at 11am with a welcome from the Scarborough Town Crier.

Air displays are a key highlight, featuring an RAF Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 at 12pm, a Tiger Moth at 1pm, The Starlings Aerobatic Team at 2pm, and a jet-powered Pitts special display by Richard Goodwin at 3pm. The afternoon will also see a poignant Battle of Britain flight with a Spitfire and Hurricane at 3:40pm.

Musical performances will be provided by the Norwegian Marching Bands, the Yorkshire Volunteers Band, the Scarborough Sea Cadet Band, and the East Riding Pipe Band throughout the day.

Formal proceedings include the review of standards by Councillor George Jabbour, Chairman of North Yorkshire Council, at 12:10pm, followed by a formal opening and welcome from the Chairman. Awards will be presented by Brigadier David Colthup CBE, who will also review the parade and deliver closing words later in the day.

Displays such as banner drill by the 152 City of Hull Royal Air Force Cadets at 12:45pm and a continuity drill by the Scarborough Sea Cadet display team at 1:15pm are also scheduled. The day will conclude with a standards, veterans, and cadets parade stepping off at 4:20pm, leading to a review and closing ceremony, featuring a Sunset ceremony, the lowering of the Armed Forces flag, and the National Anthem, finishing at 5pm. All timings for the day are subject to change.

Special Recognition for Veterans

Veterans will be publicly acknowledged throughout the day with speeches and tributes honouring their service and sacrifice. A dedicated Veterans’ Village will be available, offering a space for veterans to connect with support organisations, charities, and fellow service members. This area will also provide access to information and advice on health, wellbeing, housing, and financial support from military charities and organisations. Additionally, veterans can register for the Defence Privilege Card, which offers access to various online and high street discounts.

Naval Warfare Returns to Peasholm Park

The legendary Naval Warfare show, will launch its summer season with an Armed Forces Day special at Peasholm Park in Scarborough's North Bay. At 3:00pm on Saturday 28 June, the park's tranquil lake will be transformed into a dramatic battle zone, where 20-foot replica warships will recreate a thrilling sea battle, complete with explosions, smoke, and sound effects. This "unique and much-loved Scarborough tradition" is free to watch and forms a "powerful tribute to naval history and the courage of those who serve,".

Road Closures

Visitors planning to attend should be aware of road closures and parking restrictions that will be in effect.

Several roads and car parks will be closed from 5am until 11:59pm on Saturday 28 June 2025 to facilitate the event's set-up and take-down.

Affected areas include Blands Cliff, Eastborough (from Globe Street to Foreshore Road Junction), Eastborough Car Park, East Sandgate (from Tuthill to Eastborough), Foreshore Road, Quay Street, Quay Street Car Park, Sandside, and West Pier Car Park. Deliveries will be permitted until 9am.

North Yorkshire Council has indicated that if a resident's road is on the closure list, their vehicle must be moved by the specified times, or it may be removed, with a potential charge for recovery.

For Blue Badge holders, a statement from North Yorkshire Council clarified,

"Unfortunately, you are not able to leave your car parked even if you have a blue badge. All vehicles will have to be moved from the event area. We appreciate this may cause some inconvenience, but this is unavoidable. Arrangements are being made for anyone with special medical requirements."

For those attending with pets, event organisers stated,

"Well-behaved dogs on leads are very welcome at Scarborough Armed Forces Day. We know they’re part of the family too! Please ensure your dog is kept on a lead at all times and that you clean up after them to help keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone. Let’s make it a great day for all—two-legged and four-legged visitors alike!".

Scarborough Armed Forces Day 2025 Event Timings - June 28th 2025

Timings are subject to change.