With 100 days to go until the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen arrive in the Granite City, excitement is set to soar sky high as the Red Arrows announce they will be part of the spectacular event.
The world-famous Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team will stage a thrilling aerial display of precision teamwork, close-formations with aircraft just a few feet apart, and dynamic flying, while more than 50 beautiful Tall Ships are berthed at the Port of Aberdeen.
To add to the military spectacle of the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen, from July 19 to 22, The Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland will provide the fanfare at the event’s opening ceremony and join the Crew Parade through the heart of the city.
Organisers of the event – brought to the city by Aberdeen City Council, Port of Aberdeen and Aberdeen Inspired - said they were thrilled to announce the Red Arrows and Royal Marines on the milestone date of 100 days to go until the Tall Ships arrive.
That excitement was shared by Squadron Leader Jon Bond, who leads the nine-jet Red Arrows as Red 1, as the elite RAF team prepare for a return to the Tall Ships in Aberdeen having previously flown at the 1991event.
He said: “We can’t wait to bring our new Red Arrows display to Aberdeen this summer – we are always humbled by the brilliant, large crowds that turn out for our shows in Scotland.
“Those at the Tall Ships event can expect a dynamic aerobatic show that’s got big new formation shapes, precision rolls, loops and high-speed passes.”
The Squadron Leader said each season the team change their display to ensure it remains innovative and true to the Red Arrows’ pedigree of providing a non-stop, flowing and entertaining performance, underpinned by world-class teamwork both in-the-air and on-the-ground.
He said: “This dedication, by our entire 150-strong team, is typical of the approach found across the Royal Air Force, whatever the role or situation.
“I hope you can join us in Aberdeen for our display at the Tall Ships event and are inspired by this relentless pursuit of excellence.”
The 22-minute show – currently being polished before the Red Arrows start their 61st season - will take place on Monday, July 21, just off the Aberdeen shoreline and the viewpoint for the stirring show will be at the Beach Esplanade.
Meanwhile, The Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland will also bring their incomparable flair to the Tall Ships Races. Their Fanfare Team will sound the start of the Opening Ceremony and add drama to the Prize Giving event.
The full band will then join the excitement of the Crew Parade through the centre of Aberdeen on Sunday, July 20, joined by bands and crew members from the Tall Ships themselves.
The Royal Marines Band Director of Music, Captain Ann Miller RM, said: “It has been many years since the Royal Marines Band performed in Aberdeen, and we are delighted to return and celebrate the shared sea-faring heritage that resonates between the City of Aberdeen, The Royal Marines, and The Tall Ships Races.
“It will be an honour and a privilege for our musicians to be part of the celebrations and to showcase the precision and musical excellence the Royal Marines Band pride themselves on.
“We look forward to contributing to what promises to be an unforgettable event and reinforcing the close ties between the Royal Marines and the communities we serve.”
The prestige and tradition of the Armed Forces will be complemented by the presence of a Military Village at Union Terrace Gardens during the Tall Ships event, which will see the Army, Navy and RAF all taking part. Full details will be announced closer to the event.
The announcement of the Red Arrows and Royal Marines Band was made as stakeholders in The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen gathered for the 100 days milestone at the event’s countdown clock - which now has pride of place on the ground floor of Union Square.
Councillor Martin Greig, chair of the Tall Ships Organising Committee, said: “The Red Arrows are no strangers to Aberdeen. Their incredible formation aerobatics have thrilled generations of Aberdonians. It is wonderful that their return will add to the spectacle of the Tall Ships festival with new and enthralling high-speed flying formations to entertain the huge crowds below.
“I am really delighted that we will also be welcoming the Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland. Their fanfares at the beginning of the festival will add grandeur and heighten excitement for the days of fun and celebrations to follow.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Just when you think you couldn’t add any more excitement to the spectacle of the beautiful Tall Ships arriving in Aberdeen, here come the Red Arrows to take those thrills sky high. It might be a 20-minute aerial display, but it will make memories to last a lifetime.
“It is particularly fitting we can announce this news to mark 100 days to go until the armada of 50 vessels arrives. It is now so close, you can almost hear the snap of the sails as the Tall Ships make their way to Aberdeen.”
Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, said: “The announcement that the Red Arrows will join us in celebrating The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 has taken excitement to new heights.
“As Aberdeen prepares to welcome an international fleet of majestic Tall Ships, we’re delighted that our historic port will provide the backdrop for such an iconic aerial display.”
The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 is supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland, through their International Events Funding Programme.
David Jackson, VisitScotland regional director for Aberdeen, said: “The inclusion of the Red Arrows to the Tall Ships Aberdeen programme will make this spectacular event even more unforgettable.
“Events play an important role in our communities, giving us the chance to connect, share and enjoy memorable experiences. The addition of the Red Arrows and their world-renowned aerial display, alongside the majesty of the Tall Ships and the wider festival programme, promises to create a truly special experience for everyone attending.”
Ryan Manson, Union Square centre director, said: "We are thrilled to mark the 100-day countdown to the return of the Tall Ships Races to Aberdeen. This spectacular event promises to be a landmark moment for our city, showcasing Aberdeen's rich maritime heritage and vibrant spirit.
“We're eager to welcome visitors from across the globe, giving them a taste of Aberdeen's hospitality and all our city has to offer. The Tall Ships Races is not just a celebration; it's a fantastic opportunity to put Aberdeen on the world stage and create unforgettable memories for all."
- To mark the 100 days to go milestone, Tall Ships Races Aberdeen is offering a 10% discount until April 17 on a rich range of Tall Ships merchandise – from mugs to hoodies, hats to T-shirts, available from the online store.
- Visit shop.tallshipsaberdeen.com and apply the discount code 100DAYSTOGO for your order.
For more information on The Tall Ships Aberdeen 2025 visit here.
