Bangor, Co Down, is the venue for free, family fun this weekend (24 and 25 June 2017) when Northern Ireland Armed Forces Day is celebrated on the same weekend as the Council’s popular maritime Sea Bangor Festival.
Visitors to the town will be able to enjoy a programme of military activity that wouldn’t normally be seen by the public, along with musical performances, cookery demonstrations, food stalls and street theatre.
Highlights include Jetlev demonstrations; a spitfire display; the Sea Science Hub where children and adults alike can explore the scientific wonders of the maritime and wider world; the Shanty Shack music tent with a mix of performers playing everything from Bluegrass to rock and roll; and the ever popular Sea Bangor rowing challenge.
Specialised military vehicles will also be on display alongside other military regalia and visiting Sister Tall Ships Lady Avenel and La Malouine will sit on Eisenhower Pier alongside a naval P2000.
The event is organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council and sponsored by Tourism NI.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Robert Adair, is looking forward to welcoming day trippers and tourists to the borough and said: “Sea Bangor attracts thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond every year and Ards and North Down Borough Council is delighted to be hosting Northern Ireland Armed Forces Day as part of this year’s event.
“It is fitting given the area’s close affinity with the Armed Forces and its rich military history through the likes of Colonel Paddy Blair Mayne and Major General Rollo Gillespie of Comber who fought in India.”
The event will officially commence at 10.50am on Saturday 24 June with the official regional Armed Forces Day military parade through Bangor town centre, incorporating a special Drumhead Service and Flag Raising.
The free weekend takes place on Saturday 24 June from 10am-6pm and Sunday 25 June, 12noon-6pm at Bangor Seafront.
For more information: visitardsandnorthdown.com
Visitors are advised to avail of public transport as parking will be very limited, otherwise please allow extra time to find a space. More information is available at:
