To be a day of brotherhood with society. This is the essence of Armed Forces Day, which is commemorated annually throughout Spain, highlighting the work carried out by our Armed Forces and Navy, both within and outside our borders.
Serious, responsible, and committed work dedicated to protection, security, and the defense of peace.
In 2025, the Canary Islands will host events that allow for direct interaction between the Armed Forces and citizens, not only through traditional parades but also through parallel and complementary activities designed for all profiles and ages.
On June 7, the main event will take place: a military parade presided over by HM King Felipe VI in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Units from the three armies and the Civil Guard will be represented. As is tradition, this will include the raising of and tribute to the National Flag and those who gave their lives for Spain. The day before, a naval parade will be held in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which will also feature the presence of the monarch.
This event has taken place in Spain since 1978, the year in which an institutional event was established to serve as a tribute to the Armed Forces and Navy. The Armed Forces are currently present in 16 missions abroad, under the flags of the EU, the UN, and NATO, as well as in permanent missions, always alert to address potential threats to security in areas of sovereignty and national interest, or ready to intervene in cases of risk, catastrophe, or any public need.
Traditionally, Armed Forces Day (DIFAS) is celebrated annually on the Saturday closest to May 30, the feast of San Fernando, as established by Royal Decree 530/1987, of April 10. In response to this desire to promote awareness and integration of the Armed Forces into society, it is celebrated each year in a different Spanish city.
This year, Correos is joining the celebration of Armed Forces Day by issuing a stamp depicting members of the Army, the Air Force, and the Navy on a waving Spanish flag, beneath the coat of arms of the autonomous community of the Canary Islands.
