Armed Forces Day is an annual celebration recognising the dedication and sacrifices of our service personnel, past and present, and their families.
City of York Council is proud to be a Gold Award signatory of the York Armed Forces Covenant, reflecting our commitment to supporting serving personnel, veterans and their loved ones.
Through events, initiatives and year‑round support, we honour the contributions of the Armed Forces community and promote understanding of the organisations that stand beside them. As a city with a rich military heritage, York is proud to play its part in recognising those who serve our nation.
Armed Forces Day 2026 events and activities
York Armed Forces Day Football Festival
- Date: Saturday 12 July
- Venue: LNER Community Stadium, Kathryn Avenue, Huntington, YO32 9AF
- Website: York Armed Forces Day Football Festival
The turnstiles will open at 10.30am, ahead of the first match at 11.30am, giving visitors time to explore the stadium and enjoy the activities on offer.
We look forward to welcoming you for a memorable Armed Forces Day celebration at the LNER Community Stadium.
The event is free for everyone to attend, with wristbands provided on the day to allow for re-entry.
Attendees may also choose to upgrade their ticket to further support the event if they wish.
Optional Ticket Upgrade Costs:
£1.00 Ticket Upgrade:
This covers the cost of ticket administration.
£5.00 Ticket Upgrade:
This includes:
- £2 donation to York Against Cancer
- £2 donation to Combat Stress
- £1 to cover ticket administration
£32.50 Ticket Upgrade:
This includes:
- 2-course meal
- All-day tea and coffee
- Entry to the VIP viewing area (Block EE)
Parking:
All-day parking at Monks Cross Park & Ride is available for £5.00.
Match Highlights:
- Over 35s vs Veterans - a competitive and entertaining opener showcasing teamwork, experience and community spirit
- 2 Signal Regiment vs 21 Multi Medical Role Regiment - a high‑energy fixture featuring inter‑unit rivalry and exceptional Armed Forces teamwork
Family Zone
Inside the stadium’s Fan Zone, families can enjoy free activities including:
- face painting
- badge making
- friendship bracelet crafting
- circus skills
- magic
The Family Zone offers a relaxed, welcoming space suitable for all ages.
Stadium Entertainment
Half‑time and between‑match entertainment will take place inside the stadium, including a special performance by the Service Children’s Choir. There will be something for everyone throughout the afternoon.
York Armed Forces Day Trail
As part of Armed Forces Day 2025, City of York Council created a dedicated Armed Forces Trail guidebook and maps highlighting locations of military interest across the city.
The trail takes you on a journey through York’s rich military heritage, showcasing key sites connected to the Armed Forces, past and present. It's designed to be accessible, informative and suitable for individuals, families and community groups.
You can complete the trail at your own pace by following the guidebook and maps, to undertake a self‑guided tour of York’s Armed Forces Trail.
The trail is free to access and can be enjoyed year‑round, offering a meaningful way to explore the city while learning more about its proud Armed Forces connections.
Also see
- York Armed Forces Covenant
- Armed Forces Covenant (GOV.UK)
- Information for veterans (GOV.UK)