Our Programmes

At the National Memorial Arboretum each memorial, tree and garden in our grounds tells a powerful story. Tales are shared of bravery shown in the most extraordinary of times, selfless service and sacrifice, friendship and care.

The stories we share matter and remembering is important. Remembrance has no boundaries, is not specific to culture or community and it does not discriminate. Our collaborative programmes help us to explore, share, and learn from stories in new ways.

Current Programmes

Poet-in-Residence

The Arboretum's poet-in-residence takes to the grounds of the Arboretum for up to a 2-year period, exploring the surroundings, landscape, and memorials through the art of poetry. Combining the essence of the Arboretum and the art of reflection, the aim of the programme is to create a selection of unique and original poems for the duration of the residency.

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With her back to the photographer a female soldier dressed in a brown formal dress uniform stands in front of a microphone looking down to a crowd below.

Learning

Talent in The Ranks

Talent in the Ranks supports aspiring singers, songwriters, and poets, from within the Armed Forces community to helping them to develop their skills and share their unique lived experiences.

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A member of a local community group creates part of the installation for Remembrance in Bloom, giant poppies made from recycled materials

Guiding Lights 2025

Guiding Lights is a Learning and Participation Project that aims to bring a unique dimension to Illuminated Arboretum, representing the National Memorial Arboretum's commitment to being freely open to all. The project showcases the power of storytelling through collective creativity. Working with a wide range of participants in schools and community settings weaving the threads of arts, culture, history, and remembrance.

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A group of World War II costumed performers perform on a stage in front of a crowd of children

Previous Programmes

From co-curated exhibitions that have explored difficult memories to interactive installations that have helped to share Remembrance stories in an entirely new way, some of our previous programmes have included…

Image shows a crowd of young people in red and green carnival dress performing in front of a crowd

News

Carnival Windrush celebrates the contribution of the Windrush Generation

On Sunday 6 August, thousands of people descended on the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, to attend Carnival Windrush, an immersive and vibrant celebration of the Windrush Generation.

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Lockdown Landscapes

In partnership with the National Forest Company, Westminster Abbey and Sampad, we have produced a nationwide programme of exhibitions exploring communities’ engagement with local outdoor heritage during the pandemic, displayed across our 150 acre site.

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VE Day Celebrations Get Underway

On Friday 2 May, over 500 school children from across the midlands treated residents of Galanos House – a Royal British Legion care home – to VE Day inspired performances at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

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A jubiliant group of people walk arm in arm through the streets of London on 8 May 1945

The Year Was 1945...

The Year Was 1945, a series of exhibitions, events, services, talks and tours will open a window in time to 1945, sharing the stories of those who lived and served 80 years ago.

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