02/06/2026
26 for 26 – No.15 | D-Day Commemorations
Each year, in June, the D-Day commemorations in Normandie grow more poignant, more powerful, and more precious. As time passes the number of veterans able to return to these shores becomes smaller so the moments shared here among locals, visitors, families, and those who remember take on even deeper significance.
What makes the D-Day commemorations here so special is that they are not simply events to watch. They are moments to experience.
You might find yourself standing beside a veteran's family sharing stories, watching vintage military vehicles rumble through a village square, listening to the haunting sound of bagpipes drifting across the beaches, or joining locals and visitors alike as they gather in remembrance and friendship.
Over the years we've been privileged to welcome many wonderful guests to Le Pressoir who return for the commemorations. Some arrive in beautifully restored military vehicles, including members of the Military Vehicle Trust, while others come simply to pay their respects and walk in the footsteps of history.
One particularly special friend is a piper with the Scots Guards and we were honoured to be invited to witness him pipe across Pegasus Bridge during the 80th anniversary commemorations - a moment we'll never forget.
It's those personal moments that stay with you.
Here are some of Our Favourite Events
Standing with Giants – British Normandy Memorial
Perhaps the most moving tribute of all.
1,475 silhouettes stand overlooking Gold Beach, representing the British personnel lost on D-Day. It is a powerful and deeply emotional sight that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits.
Vintage Vehicle Parades
Throughout the commemorations, beautifully restored military vehicles, jeeps, motorcycles and trucks travel the roads of Normandy, bringing history vividly to life.
Pegasus Bridge Military Motorbike Parade
The roar of wartime motorcycles, period uniforms and the atmosphere of Pegasus Bridge make this a wonderful event.
Bagpipes, Pipes & More Pipes
If, like me, you love the sound of the pipes, you're in for a treat.
From the Bagpipe Parade at Gonneville-en-Auge to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Pipes and Drums at Juno Beach, and the spectacular international Pipes & Drums parade on Sword Beach, there are wonderful opportunities to hear these stirring sounds across Normandy.
Parachute Drops over Omaha Beach
Watching parachutists descend over Omaha Beach is always a memorable sight and a fitting tribute to the airborne forces who played such a vital role.
Freedom Balls & Swing Festivals
Not all remembrance is solemn.
Many events celebrate the joy of liberation with 1940s music, dancing, vintage fashion and community spirit. The Swing D-Day Festival perfectly captures this atmosphere.
And yes... we've seen the Satin Dollz perform and they are fabulous!
Omaha Beach Freedom Picnic & Fireworks
One of the loveliest family events of the commemorations.
Picnics on the beach, live music, dancing, friendship and a spectacular fireworks display over Omaha Beach as darkness falls.
What we love most about the D-Day commemorations is the balance they strike.
There is remembrance. There is gratitude. But there is also friendship, music, laughter and community.
The commemorations remind us not only of what was sacrificed, but also of what was preserved.
Freedom.
And perhaps that is the most fitting tribute of all.
Here are some of our favourite photos of previous years and a little video of Paul and his fellow pipers and drummers.
For the full programme of events check out this link (and we'll be posting our shortlist of our faves tomorrow so watch this space):
https://en.normandie-tourisme.fr/discover/d-day-and-the-battle-of-normandy/programme-d-day-festival/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
💎 Part of our 26 for 26 series – sharing the people, places, experiences and stories that make Normandy so special. 💎
