Royal British Legion’s 2026 Festival of Remembrance held

The Royal British Legion’s 2026 Festival of Remembrance was held at the Royal Albert Hall in London, bringing together senior members of the Royal Family, veterans, serving personnel and their families for an evening of personal stories and musical performances. Clive Myrie hosted the programme, which was broadcast on November 7.

The festival’s theme, “Places of Remembrance,” explored locations people associate with loved ones who have died. Accounts described places ranging from national memorials and familiar landmarks to gardens, football pitches and quiet spots in everyday life, where people said they feel connected to those they remember.

The programme featured stories from people who had served in conflict, relatives who had lost loved ones and families living with the effects of military service. It also marked anniversaries connected to operations in Bosnia and the ends of the Gulf War and the Iraq War.

Performers included Alfie Boe, James Emmanuel, Mica Paris, Rita Wilson and Tom Odell, accompanied by military bands. The Royal Albert Hall observed a two-minute silence at the close as poppies fell, in tribute to those who have served.

Some viewers posted emotional...