Tag: 1940s music

Celebrate VE80: Tips for Hosting a Memorable Party to Mark 80 Years Since Victory in Europe

The 8th of May 2025 marks 80 years since Victory in Europe Day, a momentous occasion that signalled the end of World War II in Europe. VE80 is a wonderful opportunity to honour the heroes of the past, reflect on our history, and celebrate peace and unity with family, friends, and community. If you’re planning to host a VE80 celebration, here are some tips to ensure your event is both meaningful and enjoyable.

1. Choose a Theme

Bring a touch of the 1940s to your party by embracing a wartime or post-war theme. Encourage your guests to dress in vintage-inspired outfits such as tea dresses, military uniforms, or classic 1940s attire. You could decorate your space with bunting, Union Jack flags, and posters reminiscent of the era.

For music, consider hiring a vintage singer to perform wartime classics. Artists like Vera Lynn and Glenn Miller are iconic choices to evoke the spirit of the time. If you’re looking for a live performance, someone like Jayne Darling (yes, that’s me!) could bring a touch of authentic nostalgia to your event.

2. Plan a Community Gathering

VE Day was a time of togetherness, and a street party is a great way to celebrate this milestone. Speak with your neighbours about hosting a joint event in your street or local community space. Arrange tables for shared food, games for children, and even a singalong of classic wartime songs.

If organising a community event, don’t forget to check any local council permissions needed for road closures or public gatherings.

3. Serve 1940s-Inspired Food and Drinks

Take a step back in time with a menu inspired by the 1940s. Finger sandwiches, Victoria sponge cakes, sausage rolls, and jelly desserts were all popular during the era. Why not offer drinks like tea served in vintage china cups or a traditional cordial? For a bit of fun, you could create ration-style food hampers for guests.

For a modern twist, you can still add favourites like cupcakes or a celebratory VE80 cake decorated with patriotic colours.

4. Reflect and Remember

While VE Day is a celebration, it’s also a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who lived through the war. Include a moment of remembrance in your event, whether it’s a reading of a wartime poem, a two-minute silence, or a toast to the brave men and women who fought for freedom.

You could also encourage guests to share stories from their own family histories or display wartime memorabilia as a conversation starter.

5. Entertainment Ideas

Keep your guests entertained with activities suitable for all ages. Here are some suggestions:

• Dance Floor: Play swing music and encourage a bit of 1940s-style dancing. A quick dance lesson could be a great addition.
• Games: Organise games like sack races, egg and spoon races, or a tug-of-war for that classic street party vibe.
• Quiz: Host a WWII-themed quiz to test everyone’s knowledge of the era.
• Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with vintage props such as hats, military helmets, and ration books for some memorable pictures.

6. Spread the Word

If you’re hosting a larger event, create some simple flyers or use social media to invite your friends and neighbours. Be sure to highlight the key details like date, time, location, and any theme or dress code.

7. End on a High Note

End the evening with a toast to peace and unity. If possible, coordinate your event with local or national commemorations, such as listening to special broadcasts or joining in with a public display like fireworks or a light show.

Final Thoughts

VE80 is a unique opportunity to bring people together, celebrate the triumph of peace over conflict, and reflect on how far we’ve come. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a big street party, adding thoughtful touches to your event will ensure it’s a day to remember.