Police are advising members of the public and road users to expect traffic delays and large crowds on Saturday, 20th June as Armed Forces Day 2026 takes place in Coleraine.

The event hosted by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is expected to draw approximately 25,000 people, and was last hosted in Coleraine back in 2018.

There will be a fly past on the day which includes the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota and RAF Falcons parachute display.

Live demonstrations will take place throughout the day, as well as a flag abseil, gun salute and military village to explore.

The event will officially begin at 10am on Saturday morning, 20th June with an hour of quiet time commencing at 10.15am, however, some disruption in the area could be expected from Friday evening onwards.

There will be no access to Christie Park or Coleraine Leisure Centre from Friday evening, 19th June at 6pm until the event finishes at approximately 6pm on Saturday.

Two parades are expected on the day – with the first commencing at 10.45am from Coleraine Leisure Centre via Railway Road, Mill Street, Long Commons, Kingsgate Street, Church Street and the Diamond.

A second parade will begin at 11.30am – taking the same route – as well as Queen Street, Circular Road, Coleraine Old Bridge, Strand Road and Christie Park.

Strand Road will be down to one lane from 7am  onwards . Restricted air space will also be in place between 6am and 8pm.

Disruption to traffic is expected in and around Coleraine town centre, and those planning to attend the event are urged to arrive early and to locate parking in good time, to avoid parking illegally.

Park and ride facilities will be available from Rugby Avenue, including park and walk from the vineyard, the Crescent, and NRC.  

Accessible parking and the shuttle bus will be running from the market yard and parking should be pre-booked. Signposted diversions will be in place, please visit https://www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/ for more information.

Traffic management systems will be in the area to assist with diversions and to enable local residents to access their homes, however, if you do not plan on attending, please seek an alternative route for your journey to avoid expected delays. 

We hope everyone thoroughly enjoys this family-orientated event, but please do so in a safe manner and act responsibly at all times.