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Ramsgate to Host Historic Gathering of Dunkirk Little Ships for 85th Anniversary of Operation Dynamo

Home / About Ramsgate / News / Ramsgate to Host Historic Gathering of Dunkirk Little Ships for 85th Anniversary of Operation Dynamo

26 May 2025

Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour will welcome a spectacular and moving sight this May, as up to 70 historic Dunkirk Little Ships return to commemorate the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo, one of the most daring and pivotal rescue missions in British military history.

Running from May 16 – 26, 2025, this free, 10-day celebration marks the largest assembly of these legendary vessels since WWII and promises a vibrant mix of historical tributes, community events, music, film, and art.

“These ships are living memorials,” says Kevin Finn, Commodore of the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships. “Their return reminds us of the extraordinary courage and unity that defined Operation Dynamo.”

Event Highlights Include:
  • Children’s Art Displays (May 17 - 18): Over 400 model Little Ships and handcrafted horseshoes line the harbour railings as local children wish crews “Bon Voyage.”
  • The Little Ships in Concert (Sunday May 18, 5:30pm): A unique world premiere featuring over 200 vessels sounding foghorns, bells, and whistles, accompanied by choir, musicians, and a WWII air raid siren.
  • Little Ships Film Festival (May 19 - 21, 5:30pm, Granville Theatre): Screenings of documentaries and dramatisations inspired by the Dunkirk evacuation. Free entry, donations welcome in support of RNLI Ramsgate.
  • Royal Marines Parade & Historic Air Display (Tuesday May 20): A formal parade followed by a flyover from the only airworthy Fairey Swordfish biplane - a rare and stirring tribute.
  • Ramsgate Tunnels Exhibits: Immersive re-enactments, personal stories, and wartime installations beneath the town.
  • Departure to Dunkirk: On Wednesday May 21 at 6am, the Little Ships begin their symbolic journey across the Channel.
  • Return to Ramsgate: A hero’s welcome is planned on Monday May 26 from 4pm.

The commemoration is organised in partnership with The Ramsgate Society, Royal Temple Yacht Club, Ramsgate Tunnels, Ramsgate Town Council, and other local groups and volunteers.

“This is a powerful reminder of our shared history,” says John Walker, Chair of The Ramsgate Society. “It’s a chance to honour those who served and to celebrate the community spirit that still thrives in Ramsgate today.”

This historic event is free and open to all. Visitors are encouraged to explore full schedules and accommodation options via:

Please note that event times, air displays, and ship movements are subject to change depending on sea and weather conditions. Follow the Visit Ramsgate Facebook page for live updates or visit www.visitramsgate.co.uk/operation-dynamo.
Written by:
Ramsgate Town Council

Photo taken by Malcolm Kirkaldie


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