Wales National Armed Forces Day welcomes thousands of visitors

Thousands of visitors celebrated the Armed Forces community as Carmarthenshire welcomed Wales National Armed Forces Day 2026 at Pembrey Country Park on Saturday 27 June.

The free, family friendly event provided entertainment throughout the day, beginning with a parade which included serving members of the Armed Forces, veterans and cadets, led by the Royal Welsh Regiment’s goat mascot, Fusilier Shenkin IV of the 3rd Battalion.

Excitement continued throughout the day, with an A400m Atlas flypast at 12:30pm which followed the opening ceremony, piloted by Flight Lieutenant Will Murray, with Sergeant Rob Small waving to crowds from the back of the aircraft.

Visitors also witnessed a spectacular performance from the Royal Air Force Falcons Parachute Display Team, showcasing a thrilling free-fall display with advanced manoeuvres at speeds of up to 120mph.

Talent on the main stage entertained throughout the day and into the evening, with music from Newshan as well as performances from former and current Loud Applause Rising Stars, including Lauren Williams, Liam J Edwards (S4C’s Y Llais finalist 2025), and headlined by West End performer Samuel Wyn Morris.

A wide range of stalls and attractions were on offer throughout the day including Armed Forces demonstrations and simulators, a military area, family zone, and a selection of food and drink. Carmarthenshire County Council services including Actif Sport and Leisure and the Llanelli Scarlets also attended. Visitors also had the chance to see real military vehicles up close, explore Armed Forces displays.

Photos from throughout the day can be viewed on the Discover Carmarthenshire website.

Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council, Cllr Linda Evans, said:

I’m delighted Wales National Armed Forces Day 2026, hosted by Carmarthenshire in Pembrey Country Park, was such a fantastic success, with thousands of visitors coming along to celebrate our Armed Forces.”

Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice, Sioned Williams, attended the event. She said: 

"The day was an opportunity to show our appreciation for those who serve and have served, and for their families, and to recognise the contribution they make to our communities. 

I thank Carmarthenshire County Council, our partners, and all the volunteers and organisations who work tirelessly to support the Armed Forces community and who helped make the day such a success."

Air Officer Wales - Rob Woods OBE, said: 

Wales Armed Forces Day showcased the very best of our Armed Forces in a specular location —an inspiring Atlas C.1 (A400M) flypast, the precision of the Falcons Display Team, and a powerful joint presence from all three services, demonstrating capability, commitment, and pride.  It was an honour to attend and a thoroughly enjoyable day for all.”

Organised by Carmarthenshire County Council, in partnership with the Welsh Government and the three armed services – the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force – as well as a range of supportive organisations. The event was part funded by Welsh Government and the Ministry of Defence and received £20,000 from Welsh Government’s 2026-27 budget.