The National Armed Forces and Emergency Services Event is returning to the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, on Wednesday, 13 May 2026. This free event brings together military veterans, serving personnel, and emergency service workers for a morning of networking and community support.
This year’s gathering has a Maritime and Marine theme to mark the 480th anniversary of the Royal Navy and celebrate the history of shipbuilding in the city. Visitors can explore a dedicated recruitment zone, a technology area for students, and a breakfast club for veterans between 9:00 am and 12:30 pm.
For the first time, the annual Services Awards will take place during the main daytime programme instead of at a separate evening ceremony. Organisers have reduced the awards from nine categories down to five, allowing more attendees to hear the stories of those being recognised for their work firsthand.
The event is organised by NAFESE in partnership with local groups including Veterans in Crisis Sunderland and Sunderland AFC. Other supporters include Stagecoach North East and the University of Sunderland, with free tickets available through the online booking site.
