The proud soldiers of The Royal Yorkshire Regiment are gearing up for a blockbuster year in 2026 as they mark 20 years since their formation — and the celebrations are set to sweep across the county in true Yorkshire style.
Branded as “Yorkshire’s Regiment,” the infantry unit is promising a spectacle of marching troops, military pride, and community celebration in a series of Freedom Parades that will roll through towns and cities between 5–9 June 2026.
And it’s not just a quiet nod to history — this is a full-blown county takeover.
COUNTY ON PARADE
The action kicks off in Keighley on 5 June before moving to Halifax on 6 June, where crowds will also gather for a service at the iconic Halifax Minster.
On 7 June, the Regiment splits its attention between Beverley and Bridlington, with Beverley hosting a special service at the historic Beverley Minster — a moment expected to draw large crowds from across East Yorkshire.
The march continues to York on 8 June, with a Minster service at the world-famous York Minster, before concluding in Richmond on 9 June.
Each stop will see marching soldiers, veterans, cadets, and potentially military bands turning town centres into stages of pride and pageantry.
In a symbolic gesture of gratitude, the Regiment will also present engraved silver commemorative salvers to each town and city holding the Freedom — a lasting tribute to communities that have supported generations of soldiers.
GRAND FINALE IN YORK
The celebrations will reach their climax on 12 September 2026 with a major Anniversary Parade and Families’ Day at Imphal Barracks, led by the 4th Battalion (4 R YORKS). Running from 11:00 to 16:00, the event is expected to draw serving personnel, veterans, families, and supporters from across the country.
Colonel N P Rhodes, Regimental Secretary, said the milestone is about more than ceremony.
“This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate professionalism, resilience, and our deep connection to Yorkshire,” he said. “These Freedom Parades are about thanking the communities that support us.”
A COUNTY-WIDE CELEBRATION
The 20th anniversary programme aims to honour two decades of operational service, strengthen ties with Yorkshire communities, and inspire future recruits.
For Yorkshire, it promises something rare: a summer where towns, traditions, and troops come together in one shared display of pride — and where history quite literally marches through the streets.
