Somerset Armed Forces Day 2026 at Vivary Park in Taunton took place on 4th July. It was a triumphant, sun‑soaked celebration that balanced heartfelt gratitude with first‑class entertainment. Under dry, very warm skies, an estimated 48,000+ visitors streamed through the gates for a free, flawlessly run day that showcased the breadth of Somerset’s community spirit and the pride it holds for the Armed Forces.
From the outset, Apple FM set a lively, welcoming tone as hosts of the main arena and two performance stages. The programming was tight and varied: the main arena cycled through a Cadet Drill competition, a thunderous military vehicle parade, and an adrenaline‑spiking Motocross stunt team that drew gasps and cheers in equal measure. Overhead, several flypasts punctuated the schedule beautifully—first, a formation of five aircraft from Middlezoy Aerodrome, then the unmistakable silhouette and roar of a Spitfire circling the arena three times, sending waves of applause across the lawns.
Not only did Apple FM broadcast live for nine hours, the dedicated team also hosted the two stages and main arena while also collecting interviews from the organisers, spectators and performers.
The stages delivered a steady stream of crowd‑pleasers and local talent. Chrystal Bliss brought polished vocals; the Taunton Military Wives Choir added warmth and poignancy; The West Country Songbirds offered rich harmonies; Soldiers Of Swing leaned into nostalgia with charm; and the Taunton Concert Band tied the musical program together with confident, rousing arrangements. Comedy interludes from Maj Blunder kept the mood buoyant between sets, helping families settle in for full‑day enjoyment.
The closing ceremony assembled military personnel in full uniform for a moment of stillness: a prayer for the fallen, then the dramatic bang of a cannon—solemn, resonant, and fitting. It reminded everyone why the day exists: to pay respect to the men and women of the Armed Forces community, past and present.
