Information

Vigo will solidify its role as the main venue for Spain's Armed Forces Day 2026 with high-impact visual events in Samil, featuring aerial displays and parades that will bring dozens of aircraft over the beach and avenue—alongside activities in the port and Vigo's ría.

The naval presence and military equipment display along Avenida de Beiramar and the Vigo Port docks will run for six days with specific hours and complementary events across the city. All programming is free and open to the public.

Samil hosts the most anticipated moments between May 29 and 30.

Daily Agenda
Day Date Port Hours Port Location Other Vigo Events That Day
Tuesday May 26 10:00-20:00 Avda. Beiramar/Docks 10:00: Flag-raising ceremony, Montero Ríos
Wednesday May 27 10:00-20:00 Avda. Beiramar/Docks 19:00: Equipment exhibition BALAÍDOS (athletics tracks)
Thursday May 28 10:00-19:00 Avda. Beiramar/Docks 19:15: Military music, Porta do Sol
Friday May 29 10:00-13:30 Avda. Beiramar/Docks 15:30: Naval review, Vigo ría
17:15: SAMIL (beach): K-9 units + equestrian display + amphibious assault
Saturday May 30 15:00-20:00 Avda. Beiramar/Docks 12:00: Central event Samil (aerial/ground parade with the King and Queen)
Sunday May 31 10:00-14:00 Avda. Beiramar/Docks Final closure

Port content: Visit Navy ships + Army, UME, and Guardia Civil vehicles/equipment on display. Direct access from Beiramar waterfront promenade.

Aerial and Ground Parade:

At 12:00, Saturday, May 30 the central DIFAS event begins on Avenida de Samil, presided over by Their Majesties the King and Queen. The sequence starts with honors, a flag-raising (delivered by paratroopers), and a tribute to the fallen, leading into the combined parade.

Aerial Parade (approx. 12:30-13:15)

  • 46 aircraft: C/CE-15 and C/CE-16 fighters from Zaragoza, firefighting planes, Guardia Civil CN-235 maritime rescue, transport, and surveillance aircraft.

  • 25 helicopters from Army and Navy.

  • Closes with Mirlo Formation (5 E-27 aircraft from the General Air Academy).
Ground Parade (approx. 13:30 onward)

  • Over 1 km route along Avenida de Samil (from the slot car circuit to the tennis courts parking).

  • 3,200 troops, 100 vehicles, 32 motorcycles.

  • Features Royal Guard, Navy/Army/UME/Guardia Civil battalions, Ceuta Regulars, Melilla Legion, Royal Battery, and Cavalry Squadron.

Samil hosts not only the highest-ranking institutional event but also the bulk of DIFAS 2026's air operations in Vigo: 71 aircraft total between planes and helicopters.

Logistics will be intensive: the ground parade spans over a kilometer of the avenue, with road closures and specific security measures.