Armed Forces Day in Spain Date in the current year: June 1, 2024

Armed Forces Day in Spain started as a purely military celebration in 1978. In 1987, it was decided to celebrate the holiday near May 30 to honor King Ferdinand III of Castille, whose death anniversary is observed on this day. Ferdinand is remembered for his military accomplishments.

Over the years, Armed Forces Day has become a colorful and popular event. Each year, a different city hosts the main celebration. The main events held on the occasion include military parades and displays, official speeches, solemn ceremonies, etc. Spanish Armed Forces are also honored on the country's National Day (October 12).

The Spanish Armed Forces are the military fores of Spain. They comprise the Spanish Army, Spanish Navy, Spanish Air Force, Military Emergency Unit, and Spanish Royal Guard. The Monarch of Spain is the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces. The Ministry of Defense is the administrative and executive body of the armed forces, it implements the government defense policy.