We are visiting France in may jun and our plan has panned out such that I might get a chance to visit the D day beaches on 06 jun (76th anniversary). Does any one have any idea about the same or any special events ?
Posted by
Middletown, RI
1136 posts
There are tons of events, ceremonies and commemorations. If you are interested in the American sector, many of these happen to the West near the Airborne areas. The U.S. Military turns out a huge number of soldiers and paratroopers near the town of Sainte-Mère-Église (inland from Utah Beach). A list of happenings can be found on the following web site, but check back regularly, as new events are added right up to the anniversary:
http://www.ot-baieducotentin.fr/en/d-day-1944/76th-d-day-anniversary-june-2020-normandy/
The huge parachute drop at the La Fiére causeway is a celebration not to be missed. It is usually the nearest Sunday to June 6th. There are also a whole bunch of French, UK and Belgian reenactors all over the area in restored WWII vehicles. You can't miss them. The ceremony at the American Normandy Cemetery is solemn, and sometimes by invite only. But go to https://www.abmc.gov/ for details. Last year I filled out a form online, and received an invite while there. On some big anniversaries, certain areas are off-limits while visiting dignitaries or heads of state are there. But Normandy is a huge area. There is always somewhere to be, or something to see. I have been to Normandy eight times so far—six of them during an anniversary. I probably won't make it this year, but I'll be back for sure. PM me for additional info or recommendations.
Posted by
OP
64 posts
Thanks for the reply. Will keep an eye open as you said. I am booking a full day tour with Overlord Tours.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32201 posts
rom,
You may find that visiting the D-Day beaches on 6 June is not the best idea. Some parts of the beaches will be cordoned off for official ceremonies and may not even be accessible. It's going to be crowded and hotels may be at a premium. In addition, many tour companies suspend operations on that day so that their staff can attend ceremonies.
If you are able to get a tour that day, post back here as others may be interested.
Posted by
OP
64 posts
Have booked a full day tour Utah / Omaha for 06 Jun ....Overlord tour. They run tours on that day .
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32201 posts
rom,
It's great that you were able to get a tour for that day. That will be a great (albeit crowded) time to visit the historic sites.