A DAZZLING aerial display by the Red Arrows is just one of the highlights set to fill the skies at Ards Airfield for Armed Forces Day.
The spectacular air show, interactive exhibits, live music and hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) fun will take place on Saturday, June 21 from 10.30am to 5pm.
Armed Forces Day is a special opportunity to get an insight into the work of the armed forces and to show support for everyone in the armed forces community, from those currently in service, to veterans, cadets and their families.
The day begins with the official armed forces parade stepping off from Court Square, Newtownards at 10.30am, featuring the band, bugles, pipes and drums of the Royal Irish Regiment, followed by a traditional Drumhead Service and flag raising at Ards airfield.
Then there will be a host of aerial displays including the RAF premier military parachute display team, The Falcons, the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the Red Arrows.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy a programme of military activity and get up close with on-ground exhibits that would not normally be seen by the public.
A host of family-friendly activities planned throughout the day will celebrate innovation and inspire budding scientists of the future.
Visitors can explore the depths of the universe with Armagh Planetarium and find out just how complicated or not rocket science really is with Ulster Rocketry.
There is also the chance to discover what lies beneath Strangford Lough with Ulster Wildlife and Queen’s Marine Laboratory. Alternatively have a go at being a cyber security expert or chill out at one of the Legostations.
There will be a food village offering a range of over 30 food and drink options.
Normal scheduled public transport services will be in operation on the event day. Additional special transport arrangements are in place to and from the event site.
On-site car parking will be available at Ards airfield by pre-booking online at www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/AFD25, capacity is limited.
There will be a temporary free park and ride from Bangor’s former NIE site (Balloo Road), plus additional event shuttle buses from Bangor Translink Station and the Dundonald Glider Stop on the Upper Newtownards Road, will be in operation on the day.
Large numbers of visitors are expected to attend this event. Road closures are in place to facilitate this and inevitable travel disruption around Newtownards is anticipated. Please allow additional time and consider this when planning onward travel.
To find out more and plan your trip at www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/AFD25.
