Armed Forces Day 2022 events in Manchester: activities taking place - and why it's celebrated

Armed Forces Day 2022 takes place this weekend, with dozens of events planned around the country to mark the occasion.

There are several events taking place in and around Manchester, each focusing on the importance of the day and giving people a chance to come together.

Here’s what you need to know about the events taking place in Manchester, and also the origins of the day.

What is Armed Forces Day?

Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday in June every year and is a day for the public to give thanks to and recognise the efforts of the UK’s Armed Forces.

A spokesperson for The Armed Forces Day organisers said: “Showing support for the Armed Forces provides a much valued morale boost for the troops and their families.”

Which events are taking place in Manchester?

All of these events take place on Saturday, 25 June unless otherwise stated.

LGBT Foundation project launch

Tel 07956887833

Email [email protected]

Time: 12pm-4pm

2nd Floor, Buildings, Fairbairn House, 72 Sackville St, Manchester M1 3NJ, UK

A spokesperson said: “To commemorate Armed Forces Day, LGBT Foundation will be launching their brand new service to the community – Operation Equality: A Befriending Service for LGBTQ+ Armed Forces, Veterans and their Families.

The project has arisen as part of a wider grant from the Armed Forces Covenant Trust Fund titled “Tackling Loneliness” which aims to reach out to LGBTQ+ members of the Armed Forces.

Tameside Armed Forces Day

Tel 0161 342 4144

Email [email protected]

Time: 12pm-4pm

Victoria Park, Acre Street, Denton, Manchester

A spokesperson for the event said: “This free event traditionally opens with a civic luncheon for specially invited ex-service/serving personnel with the Civic Mayor, Councillors, Aldermen and Freemen, MP’s and other civic and local dignitaries.

“The remainder of the day is hosted from the main bandstand within Victoria Park where key AFD messages will be relayed in addition to a wide range of high quality entertainment throughout the afternoon.

“There will also be a wide range of participatory activities from arts and craft to exciting and challenging physical activities for everyone to participate in.”

Armed Forces Day Parade and Family Fun Day

Tel 0161 793 3432

Email [email protected]

Time: 10.30am-4pm

Dover St, Eccles, Manchester M30 8LW, UK

A spokesperson for the Eccles event said: “Salford is planning a number of fun activities ranging from small children’s rides, face painting, climbing wall, magician and lots of other entertainment.

“Forming part of the event will be a Parade; starting from Dukes Drive Car Park, off Parrin Lane, Monton, Eccles concluding at Winton Park, Dover Street, Eccles.”

Manchester Armed Forces Day - A Big Thank You

Tel 07748651465

Email [email protected]

St Peter’s Square, Manchester M2 3AA, UK

Manchester will honour the outstanding contribution of the nation’s armed forces with a special day of activities and entertainment for the whole family.

The celebration will take over St Peter’s Square on Saturday 25 June – from 11am until 4pm – to thank current serving members of the armed forces as well as veterans of all ages.

Heaton Norris Armed Forces Day Picnic

Tel 07748651465

Email [email protected]

Time: 9am-6pm

A spokesperson for the picnic event said: “A family event for local residents – a family picnic with information stalls, children rides – guest speakers ex. Army veterans

“Workshops related to the armed forces and highlighting the past and current achievements of our armed forces with an exhibition display.”

For more information on all of these events, visit the Armed Forces Day website