Kingston upon Thames — 28 June 2025

Armed Forces Community Day Kingston

When

12:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Location

kiNGS ROAD
Kingston upon Thames
England
KT25UB
United Kingdom

Proposal: Armed Forces Day Community Celebration at The Keep, Kingston
Overview
We propose to host a Community Celebration for Armed Forces Day at The Keep – a military housing patch in Kingston consisting of approximately 200 homes – in partnership with Afghan Armed Forces resettled families. This event will be open to the public and is designed to celebrate the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces, build stronger community connections, and showcase the unique history and cultural diversity of our local area.

Objectives
• Celebrate and honour the Armed Forces and their families, including resettled Afghan personnel
• Promote integration and understanding between military families, resettled communities, and the wider Kingston public
• Provide a free, family-friendly event to foster local pride and shared community spirit
• Educate the public on the history and significance of The Keep as a military site

Event Features
• Live music from resident military musicians, featuring patriotic classics and uplifting tunes
• Cultural and community food stalls, offering both traditional British fare and Afghan cuisine
• Children’s entertainment including face painting, bouncy castles, arts & crafts, and interactive activities
• Military vehicle displays and engagement opportunities with service members
• A History of The Keep – an engaging exhibition or storytelling area that explores the heritage and role of the site in Kingston’s military past
• Afghan Cultural Corner – celebrating the traditions, food, and resilience of Afghan Armed Forces families who now call Kingston home
• Community mingling zones, encouraging local residents and the public to engage, interact and form new connections

Audience
• Residents of The Keep
• Resettled Afghan Armed Forces families
• Local Kingston residents and the general public
• Community organisations, local councillors, and support services

Benefits
• Strengthened community bonds between military and civilian populations
• Increased cultural understanding and appreciation of resettled Afghan families
• Enhanced visibility of Armed Forces contributions within the local area
• A positive, inclusive public event that encourages neighbourly connection and shared celebration