Armed forces celebratory and commemorative events

Every year there are a variety of events throughout the year and across the county celebrating Kent’s military heritage and commemorating the service of men and women in our armed forces throughout history.

To mark 100 years since the start of World War 1, a timeline of Kent's residents' first-hand experiences in the First World War was created by volunteers using the archives at the Kent History and Archive Centre.

May 2021 marked the 100th anniversary of the Royal British Legion. Find out more on the British Legion website.

The Step Short Memorial, a memorial arch in Folkestone, was opened by Prince Harry in 2014 to remember the millions of men who passed through the Harbour on their way to battle.

Events calendar

If you know about a significant event that is happening, contact civic.office@kent.gov.uk.

DateTimeEvent detailsType of eventContact
8 May 20257:30pmVE Day 80 - Beacon lighting

Bandstand, The Leas, Folkestone
Public

Georgina Wilson

Georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk

6 June 202511amD-Day (NVA)

Garden of Remembrance, Sandgate Road, Folkestone 
Public

Georgina Wilson

Georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk

28 June 202512pmArmed Forces Day

The Leas, Folkestone 
PrivateVicky Deakin

vicky.deakin@folkestone-tc.gov.uk 
1 July 202511amCanada Day

Shorncliffe Military Cemetery, Folkestone 
Public

Georgina Wilson

Georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk

15 August 202511amVJ Day

Garden of Remembrance, Sandgate Road, Folkestone 
Public

Georgina Wilson

Georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk

15 September 20255:45pmBattle of Britain Day

The RAF Memorial, The Leas, Folkestone 
Public

Georgina Wilson

Georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk

2 November 20252pmDedication of Garden of Remembrance

Garden of Remembrance, Sandgate Road, Folkestone 
Public

Georgina Wilson

Georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk

9 November 202510:30amThe War Memorial, The Leas, FolkestonePublic

Georgina Wilson

Georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk

11 November 202511amMachine Gun Corps

Cheriton Road Cemetery, Folkestone
PublicNeil Jones

neil.jones.mbcs@gmail.com