Family / Eat & Drink The Year Was 1945…VE Day Celebrations

Jubilation was the order of the day on the 8 May 1945 (VE Day) when millions of people took to the streets to celebrate the German surrender in Europe.

The National Memorial Arboretum will mark this landmark moment by hosting a FREE weekend of activities inspired by the street party spirit of 1945. A packed programme of live performances, including vintage 1940s inspired dance workshops, will set the scene for celebrations which will culminate at the end of each day with a mass visitor singalong.

Young visitors can get creative as they make their own musical instruments to play and flags to wave. Traditional lawn games will also be available throughout the weekend for everyone to enjoy.

From the ARP warden tasked with helping communities during enemy bombing raids, to a land girl helping to boost Britain’s food production. The Arboretum’s costumed performers will take visitors back on a journey to 1945. From the home front to the front line, their captivating stories inspired by those who lived 80 years ago, will help bring history to life.

A BSL interpreted performance of the VE Day Celebrations content will take place each day. If you are a visitor who plans to visit specifically to benefit from this interpreted content, please do contact the team in advance by email info@thenma.org.uk or phone 01283 245 100 so that they can support your experience.

Food & Drink

No street party is complete without food, and tasty treats will be available to purchase in both the Restaurant and Coffee Shop throughout the weekend.

Discover Real-Life Stories

You’ll be able to discover the real-life stories of those who served by joining one of the knowledgeable volunteers on a Road to VE Day* or VJ Day guided walk*, or you can explore at your leisure using a self-led The Year Was 1945 trail sheet from the Welcome Desk.

*Charges apply

Exhibitions

On Saturday 3 May, brand-new exhibitions will open that will offer visitors a glimpse back in time to 1945.

From joyous memories created by communities as they celebrated together on VE Day, to the deeply personal stories of those who were still serving, these exhibitions will bring history to life.

VE Day Street Party at Cherry Tree Road | Gallery Two

Through Their Eyes: 80 Years On | Gallery Three