At Pippingford Park.
A day to remember
About the Event
On Saturday 25 July 2026, the Veterans Can… Festival welcomed Veterans, serving personnel, military families, supporters, businesses, charities and members of the public to the beautiful grounds of Pippingford Park in Sussex for a day that truly embodied our three pillars – Connection | Community | Celebration.
What began as an ambitious vision became a remarkable reality. Together, we created an event that showcased the very best of the Veteran community – bringing people together through shared experiences, friendly competition, meaningful conversations and a sense of purpose and belonging.
From the volunteers who got in early, the keen arrivals on the Friday evening, the first through the gate on Saturday morning to the final conversations around on the campsite after the festoon lights were turned off, the atmosphere was one of pride, positivity and genuine connection.
Veteran Games UK
One of the standout moments of the day was the inaugural Veteran Games UK. Teams of 8 demonstrated determination, teamwork and some distant muscle memory as they tackled a series of military-themed physical and mental challenges, including pushing a Humvee up a hill, firing on an airsoft range, scaling a 12 foot(ish) wall and a tug o’ war comp.
More importantly, they reminded everyone watching that service never truly ends – it simply evolves into new ways of supporting one another. The encouragement from spectators, the laughter between teams and the willingness to celebrate every achievement made the Games far more than a competition. It became a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when Veterans come together with purpose.
More Than Just a Festival
Across the site, visitors explored the Forces Brands Village, discovering and supporting businesses founded and operated by Veterans and Service Pers from across the UK. The village highlighted the innovation, professionalism and entrepreneurial spirit that exists throughout the Veteran community.
Alongside them, charities and organisations shared information, advice and opportunities, helping visitors discover the breadth of support and services available while building new partnerships for the future.
Throughout the day, families enjoyed great food, entertainment and the opportunity to meet old friends, make new connections and spend quality time together in an environment built around respect, inclusion and community.
As the sun set, many stayed to continue conversations on the hay bales with music, comedy, talks, drinks, stories and food all in plentiful supply.
Veteran Games UK promotion film
Watch the full 3 minute Veteran Games UK promotion film made by the Veteran-owned Element Films. This piece provides insight into the reasons the Veteran Games were created and why we must continue to work to bring them to the UK
Veterans Can… Festival Gallery
Relive the highlights from the Veterans Can… Festival 2026. Browse our gallery of photos capturing the Veteran Games, Veterans-Owned Village, family activities, exhibitors, volunteers and the incredible community that made the day such a success.
Thank You
Events like this are only possible because of the incredible commitment of so many people. Our heartfelt thanks go to every volunteer, competitor, exhibitor, sponsor, charity, partner, supporter and visitor who played a part in making the day such a success.
Together, you helped demonstrate what Veterans Can… has always believed;
• When we connect people, we strengthen communities.
• When we celebrate service, we inspire others.
• When we work together, good things happen.
This Is Only the Beginning
Veterans Can… at Pippingford Park was never intended to be a one-off event. It marks another important step in our mission to connect the global Veteran community through purpose, pride and positivity.
The relationships formed, conversations started and partnerships created during the day will continue long after the event itself, helping us grow an even stronger and more connected Veteran community. Whether you attended as a Veteran, family member, supporter, business, charity or sponsor – thank you for being part of something truly special.
We look forward to welcoming you to the next Veterans Can… event as we continue building a community where every Veteran knows they belong.
Interested in getting involved in 2027?
The exact date will be confirmed soon, but please leave your details…