Commemorating D-Day's 80th Anniversary in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland marks D-Day's 80th anniversary with beacons lit across towns and cities on Thursday. Events include a beacon lit at Slieve Donard, receptions at Belfast City Hall, and activities in Lisburn, Armagh, Enniskillen, Ballynahinch, Portrush, and County Mayo. Allied troops from Northern Ireland are honored for their WWII sacrifices, with major events attended by world leaders in France.

Northern Ireland is hosting various events to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Beacons will be lit in multiple towns and cities at 21:15 on Thursday.

Belfast City Hall will be illuminated blue and host a reception at 10:30.

Lisburn kicks off events early with a proclamation at 08:00, followed by the unveiling of a flag of peace and a wreath laying by the Royal British Legion.

Beacons also will be lit in Newtownards, Bangor, Ballyhalbert, Armagh, Enniskillen, Ballynahinch, and Portrush East Strand.

In County Mayo, events at Blacksod Lighthouse include music, an aircraft flypast, and discussions.

Allied troops, including those from Northern Ireland, are remembered for their role in liberating Europe.

Ranville war cemetery commemorates soldiers like Nathaniel Magill from Belfast.

Major events in France will feature world leaders, including the King and US President Joe Biden, with live broadcasts from Normandy by BBC Newsline and BBC Radio Ulster.