D-Day 80th anniversary celebrations in Preston

Pay tribute to the heroes of D-Day and celebrate 80 years of courage, sacrifice, and resilience.

Thursday 6 June 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The term itself refers to the beginning of an operation, which turned out to be the largest seaborne invasion in history.

On June 6 1944, Operation Overlord saw over 5,000 ships and landing craft set down more than 130,000 allied troops from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and other countries on five Normandy beaches. At the time, France was occupied by the armies of Nazi Germany and it was this momentous action that would eventually bring about the liberation of France and North Western Europe. As such, historians often refer to D-Day as the beginning of the end of World War II.

To remember the bravery and sacrifice of those in securing the peace and freedom enjoyed today, there will be a series of major commemorations and events across the UK to mark the 80th anniversary of this historic day.

D-Day anniversary events and exhibitions in Preston

D Day 80 (Civic Anniversary Event) - Flag Market

Date/time: Thursday 6 June (8-9:30pm)
Cost: free

Join us for a poignant D-Day 80th-anniversary civic event in Preston, centred around a symbolic beacon lighting ceremony with a tribute from cadets and veterans. 

The programme will feature choir performances leading up to the beacon lighting, fostering a sense of unity and remembrance as we honour the heroes of D-Day.

For more information see .

D-Day 80th anniversary celebration - Flag Market

Date/time: Saturday 8 June (1-4pm)
Cost: free

Celebrate e D-Day 80th-anniversary in Preston, where history comes to life through a range of events and performances. Starting with the parade, led by the Hesketh Silver Band, treating attendees to a brilliant musical set.

Expect dance performances from Preston College and workshops with local artist Anthony Padgett, while vintage singer Hattie Bee transports you back in time with songs from the wartime period.

Recognise the historical significance of D-Day by viewing the military vehicle displays in the Guild Hall foyer and an exhibition with Dickie Bird cartoon reproductions on the Flag Market.

There will also be a re-enactment on the Guild Hall balcony, and Sue Hurrell performing solo singing during the service on the Flag Market

For more information see .

Lancashire Infantry Museum D-Day Model Exhibition

Date/time: Friday 7 June - Sunday 9 June (10-4pm)
Cost: Adult £4, Child £6

To mark the 80th Anniversary of this turning point in history, Lancashire Infantry Museum are hosting an exhibition of models which tell the story of D-Day from April to September 1944.

Your whole visit will be accompanied by a guide to enhance your experience. There is plenty of secure parking on site but please remember to bring photo I.D. to gain entry to the barracks.

D-Day 80th Anniversary Event at UCLan

Date/time: Friday 7 June (6:15pm - 9pm)
Cost: Adult £10

Join Lancashire Armed Forces Association to learn all about D-Day.

Come and join to learn more of the remarkable D-Day story, expertly told by Professor Martin Alexander and Brigadier Peter Rafferty.

For more information see D-Day 80th Anniversary Event at UCLan.

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Map address of D-Day events and exhibitions

Flag Market, 4 Cheapside, Preston, PR1 2AP
Lancashire Infantry Museum, Fulwood Barracks, Preston, PR2 8AA.