If you're on vacation in the Canary Islands, don't miss one of the biggest public spectacles of the year: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas will host Armed Forces Day 3 (DIFAS) from June 8rd to 2025th, with free events, beach displays, naval parades, and the presence of King Felipe VI. The highlight will be on Friday, June 6th, when the bay of Gran Canaria's capital will become the stage for a historic naval air show. Right in front of Santa Ana Cathedral and the old town of Vegueta, at 15:00 PM, tourists and residents will be able to enjoy the flyover of 23 military aircraft and the navigation of 14 ships of the Spanish Navy, including the modern submarine S-81 "Isaac Peral," designed and built entirely in Spain.
Starting at 16:30 p.m., the action moves to Las Alcaravaneras Beach, right in the city center. There, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Civil Guard will put on a spectacular combined display, featuring maneuvers at sea, landings, and rescue drills. All admission is free and open to the general public. In addition, from Tuesday, June 3rd to Sunday, June 8th, both the Las Palmas Military Arsenal and the Santa Catalina Pier will open their doors to the public with displays of military vehicles, helicopters, patrol boats, and defense equipment. This is a perfect opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn about the role of the Armed Forces firsthand.
If you're staying in Gran Canaria, especially in areas like Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, Playa del Inglés, or the north of the island, you can easily get to the capital using public transport. Las Palmas City Council recommends avoiding private vehicles on June 5 and 6, when large crowds are expected. Remember that Las Alcaravaneras Beach will be closed to swimming on June 5 and 6, and its sports facilities will be closed starting Monday, June 2. However, nearby beaches such as Las Canteras, La Laja, and El Confital will remain open for tourists.
Armed Forces Day 2025 in Gran Canaria not only pays tribute to the work of the armed forces in protecting the territory and the environment, but also offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a visually stunning, safe, and educational spectacle in the heart of one of the most vibrant cities in the Canary Islands. In addition to the presence of King Felipe VI, the event also includes the direct participation of the Ministry of Defense and Las Palmas City Council, which have implemented extensive measures to ensure the safety, cleanliness, and comfort of all attendees.
Key dates: June 3-8, 2025
Main event: Friday 6th, with King Felipe VI
Free exhibitions: beach, sea and air
Visits to ships and naval exhibitions
Leisure options near the event: Las Canteras, Vegueta, Triana
If you're a tourist in the Canary Islands in June 2025, don't miss Armed Forces Day in Las Palmas. Experience the excitement of major national events, feel the closeness of the Army in a family atmosphere, and enjoy an unforgettable week on the island of Gran Canaria.
