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Anniversary resources

Supporting the lifeguards 25th anniversary? Or celebrating a local RNLI landmark year? Here’s everything you need, plus a little inspiration, for running your own special event.

Anniversaries are a great way to build support and connect with your community. This guide gives you the tools you need to make the most of your event.

The possibilities are endless. Why not try something new like a fun run, sandcastle contest, pop-up shop, flash mob, or a themed art competition? Running events safely is at the forefront of what we do, and the resources here will help you plan and bring your ideas to life in the best possible way.

A selection of cakes from an RNLI bake sale

Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams

Planning essentials

Head to the event planning resources page to get started. Find all the essentials, like our event planner, risk assessment templates, helpful guides and select what you need to make it happen.

Find event resources
A close-up of a woman using a smartphone

RNLI / Nathan Williams

Materials at your fingertips

On the MyStore site, you’ll find all the branded materials you need to promote your anniversary event and bring your celebrations to life, including posters, flyers, invitations, thank you cards, cake toppers, and bunting. If you don't have a log-in, please contact your volunteer manager or your Volunteer Support Team.

Browse MyStore

Templates

Significant anniversaries

If you are looking at celebrating a significant 25th, 100th or even 200th anniversary in your community, reach out to the Volunteer Experience Team to find out what other support may be available.

Email volunteer experience

We're here to help

For queries about event materials, contact the Volunteer Experience Team directly at [email protected]. If you need help with MyStore or placing orders, please call 0300 300 9913 (UK) or 01 511 9835 (Ireland).

Lifeguard 25 Teams background.

How will you celebrate?

In 2024, communities came together to commemorate, celebrate and inspire for the RNLI’s 200th anniversary. Events included church services, festivals, open days, car washes, fitness challenges, bake sales, sponsored runs, afternoon tea, auctions and barbecues. Some communities hosted musical events like choir performances or sea shanty concerts in local venues, charging for entry and creating memorable evenings.

What will you do in 2026 to honour the incredible work of RNLI lifeguards?

Lifeguard 25th Anniversary

I wanted to do something fun with my workmates and celebrate our local lifeboat crew, so I hosted an RNLI Rock the Boat event. I was amazed to discover how many of my colleagues had hidden musical talents. On show night, my face hurt from smiling – seeing people sharing a passion and having fun on stage. We had a cracking evening and raised lots of funds. Bringing people together like this is a joy – and it supports our lifesavers.

Ross Cleaver Organiser, Poole Rock the Boat

Registering your anniversary with the RNLI

All RNLI fundraising events need to be registered. So, if you’re planning on raising funds, please remember to contact your Designated Event Volunteer. They will register your event on your behalf. If you are not sure who that is, contact the Volunteer Experience Team at [email protected].

Go contactless!

Contactless donation units mean you can offer the public a quick and secure way to support the RNLI. They are a brilliant fundraising asset! Contact your Community Manager to book one for your event.

Ordering materials

From event posters to campaign materials, RNLI branches and fundraising teams can order resources online through the MyStore site to support community and fundraising events. If you don’t have a login, please get in touch with your community manager or the Volunteer Experience Team at [email protected] to find out how best to place an order in your area.