Events

Each year, various events are hosted across the city, with participation from the Garrison and local veterans.

Armed Forces Day - last Saturday in June

Since 2009, Armed Forces Day has been marked annually with events large and small throughout the UK. In support of this event, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is providing funding to help organisations and individuals in the UK host an Armed Forces Day event. Apply for funding.

Events could include Armed Forces Day tea parties, parades, big band concerts and civil war military re-enactments. Local councils, organisations, schools, ex-service organisations and individuals in the UK are eligible to apply for funding. The event should be held on or in the weeks around National Armed Forces Day. Organise your own event.

#SaluteOurForces is a simple way for anyone to pay tribute to the British Armed Forces community for their hard work, dedication and efforts to keep us safe in the UK and across the globe. To join in, simply send us a photo or video of yourself or your friends and colleagues saluting!

Reserves Day - Wednesday before Armed Forces Day

Reservists give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces, balancing their civilian life with a military career to ensure that should their country require them, they would be ready to serve as part of the military. Reserves Day was created to highlight and recognise the valuable contribution Reservists make to our Armed Forces. On Reservists Day, our Reservists wear their uniform in their civilian life.

Civic events

Each year we host various events with participation and assistance from the Garrison and local veterans.

June

• Saturday 15 June: HM The King's Royal Birthday Gun Salute at 12pm. Public access in the Upper Castle Park.
• Monday 24 June: Armed Forces Week - Flag raising ceremony at 11am at Colchester Town Hall.

September

• Tuesday 03 September: Merchant Navy Day - Flag Raising Ceremony at 11am at Colchester Town Hall.
• Tuesday 17 September: Commemoration of the Battle of Arnhem at 12pm at Colchester War Memorial.

November

• Sunday 10 November: Remembrance Sunday Service at 10:45am at Colchester War Memorial.
• Monday 11 November: Armistice Day Ceremony at 11am, including 11am silence at Colchester Town Hall.