Durham Festival of Remembrance 2026
Organised by the Army Benevolent Fund, the British Army’s national charity, the Durham Festival of Remembrance has brought together military and civilian communities for more than sixteen years.
Held within the magnificent setting of Durham Cathedral, the Durham Festival of Remembrance has become one of the North East’s most significant annual acts of commemoration. Each year, the Festival honours the service and sacrifice of those who have served our nation while raising vital funds to support soldiers, veterans and their immediate families.
Today, the Durham Festival of Remembrance remains a cherished part of the region’s Remembrance calendar. Above all, it offers an opportunity to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to recognise the contribution of the wider Armed Forces community.
“It was a spectacular event to make everyone proud of the manner in which we can come together to remember our fallen.” Martin, Festival of Remembrance 2025
Freedom, Service, Duty: The Theme of the Durham Festival of Remembrance 2026
This year’s Durham Festival of Remembrance is inspired by the theme Freedom, Service, Duty.
Throughout the evening, music, narration and personal reflection will explore the values that have shaped military service across generations. The programme will celebrate the freedoms we enjoy today. In addition, it will recognise the commitment of those who serve in the Armed Forces and reflect upon the enduring sense of duty that lies at the heart of military life.
Moreover, the Festival will highlight the lasting connection between the Armed Forces and the communities they serve. As a result, audiences will gain a deeper appreciation of the contribution made by generations of servicemen and women.
A Unique Remembrance Event at Durham Cathedral
The Durham Festival of Remembrance tells stories of service, sacrifice and resilience through a moving blend of music and spoken word. Meanwhile, performers from across the military and civilian communities will bring the programme to life within one of Britain’s most iconic cathedrals.
The evening culminates in the poignant Muster and Act of Remembrance beneath Durham Cathedral’s central tower. As silence falls across the Cathedral, thousands of poppy petals descend from above. Consequently, this moving moment has become one of the most memorable features of the North East’s annual programme of Remembrance events.
Performers and Narrator
The 2026 Durham Festival of Remembrance will be narrated by renowned North East broadcaster Carol Malia.
Performances will feature:
- The Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers
- Catterick WAGS Choir
- Tyne Electrical Association Pipes and Drums
- Enter CIC
- Charlotte Potter, Soprano
Together, these performers will create a memorable evening of reflection, remembrance and tribute. Furthermore, they will showcase the strong connection between military and civilian communities across the North East.
“I personally hung onto every word of the guest speaker as he spoke so eloquently about why we do and indeed should, continue to remember those that have given their lives in service to the country.” Vivienne, Festival of Remembrance 2025
The Army Benevolent Fund and the Durham Festival of Remembrance
The Durham Festival of Remembrance is organised by the Army Benevolent Fund, the British Army’s national charity.
The Charity provides lifelong support to serving soldiers, former soldiers and their immediate families when they face hardship, illness, injury, bereavement or other challenges arising from military service.
Every ticket sold helps support this work. Therefore, by attending the Durham Festival of Remembrance, you will not only honour those who served our nation, but also help members of the Army family when they need support most.
Durham Festival of Remembrance Tickets
Tickets for the Durham Festival of Remembrance 2026 will go on sale in September through the Durham Cathedral Box Office. Please click the “Buy Tickets” button below when tickets become available.
Central Aisle Seating – £22.00 per person
Font Seating – £20.00 per person
South Transept Seating – £12.50 per person
A Box Office fee applies to all bookings. Furthermore, seating is allocated by zone rather than by individual seat. Therefore, we recommend arriving in good time.
For ticketing enquiries, including amendments and refunds, please contact [email protected].
For general event enquiries, please contact the Army Benevolent Fund North East & Yorkshire at [email protected].
“Congratulations on the programme, beautifully delivered, which captured and reinforced our gratitude, respect and support for all who have served and continue to serve in the armed forces.” Dame Sue Snowdon DCVO, Festival of Remembrance 2025
Durham Road User Charge Zone
Please note that Durham Cathedral is located within the Durham Road User Charge Zone. Currently, the charge applies Monday to Sunday between 10:00am and 2:00am.
For further information, including exemptions, please visit the Durham County Council website here.
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