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.

2025 will mark the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day on 8 May and 15 August. It's an opportunity for the nation to come together to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth, through a series of national and local events and activities. You can apply to close a road for a street party and to attach lightweight bunting or flags to streetlights to celebrate VE and VJ days.

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.