Bournemouth, Events & Entertainment | Posted on June 11th, 2026 | return to news

Southbourne to proudly salute armed forces at Shake & Stir festival

The Shake & Stir Armed Forces Weekender takes place on 27 and 28 June.

Southbourne is preparing to salute the Armed Forces this summer as the Shake & Stir Armed Forces Weekender returns to Fisherman’s Walk.

The award-winning volunteer-based team at Stir Events CIC, who organise the event, say the free community festival will be the only officially recognised Armed Forces Day event taking place within the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council area.

It promises two unforgettable days of live music, community spirit, remembrance and celebration on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June 2026.

The not-for-profit event has been refreshed following feedback from visitors and veterans, with a greater focus on recognising and supporting the Armed Forces community.

One of the highlights will be the Armed Forces Day Parade through the streets of Southbourne on Saturday morning.

Veterans, cadets, military associations and community groups will march alongside the Christchurch British Legion Band, creating a powerful tribute to those who have served.

Everyone is encouraged to line the route, wave flags and join in the celebration as the parade makes its way to Fisherman’s Walk.

The Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Sir Christopher Lees DL, will take the salute. Civic representatives including BCP Council Leader Cllr Millie Earl, BCP Chairman Cllr Lesley Dedman, Bournemouth Mayor Cllr Roberto Rocca, BCP Armed Forces Champion Cllr George Farquhar and local MP Tom Hayes will be in attendance.

There will be plenty of entertainment throughout the weekend, featuring vintage music from the 1940s to the 1960s. Performances by the Christchurch British Legion Band, the Bovington Military Wives Choir, Retro Rita and many other popular vintage artists, bands and DJs will take place.

Whilst soaking up the atmosphere you can meet veterans’ organisations, military charities, cadet forces and support groups at the Military Village, and visit the History Hub which will showcase local military heritage, including exhibitions from the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch Indian Community and displays remembering local servicemen and women.

Alongside the entertainment, visitors can explore a Vintage Village, Artisan Village, food and drink traders, military and heritage vehicles, wrestling demonstrations, fairground rides, family activities and a community area sponsored by Southbourne Beach Care Home.

Entry is free, although voluntary donations will be welcomed to help cover the costs of delivering the event and ensuring its future sustainability.

Mandy Polkey, event director of Stir Events CIC, said: “Shake & Stir has always been about bringing communities together, and this year we wanted to create something truly special that recognises our Armed Forces, veterans and military families. We are incredibly proud to be hosting the only Armed Forces Day event in the BCP area and to provide a free event that everyone can enjoy.

“We hope local people will come along, support our veterans, join us for the parade and help make this a wonderful celebration of service, sacrifice and community spirit.”

Stir Events CIC is a not-for-profit community interest company supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. Any businesses wishing to support the event through sponsorship or donations are encouraged to get in touch.

For details, visit the website: www.shakenstirfest.com.