In May 1945, the long anticipated news that the Second World War had come to an end when Germany surrendered to the Allies after six long years of fighting. Celebrations broke out all across the country with bunting, parades and parties and singing and dancing
in the streets.
Due to the coronavirus restrictions most VE Day 75 events and street parties have had to be cancelled or postponed, however you can still get involved and show your wartime spirit by throwing a special celebratory ‘stay at home street party’ – decorate their home in red, white and blue – and enjoy a picnic in their front garden – to share your pride in our country and honour the men and women of World War 2.
Tell us what you’re doing!
We’d love to hear what you’re doing on 8th May! Share your photos on our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram (@TheSwindonian) using the hashtag #VEDaySwindon.
Decorate your home and garden
There are lots of templates on the internet for everything from bunting to the Red Arrows. Colouring Heroes have prepared a VE Day bunting kit with templates you can print and colour in. Make sure to send us your photos.
Design a #VEDaySwindon Medal
Why not have a go at designing your own commemorative medal to mark the 75th anniversary.
Paint VE Day 75 rocks
Swindonians have been painting rocks and leaving them around town for others to find, why not paint special VE Day or 1940s themed rocks and leave them dotted around town to put a smile on everyone’s face as they go on their daily walks or essential journeys! Make sure you share your pictures on our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram (@TheSwindonian) using the hashtag #VEDaySwindon. and also Rocks of Swindon.
Have a vintage sing-song
Ramp up the nostalgia with a vintage sing-song to 40’s classics like the Lambeth Walk, White Cliffs of Dover or maybe even learn how to do the Lindy Hop Swing.
There will also be a national sing-along to Vera Lynn’s We’ll meet again at 9pm on BBC One. You can find the words on the Royal British Legion’s website.
Whatever you decide, English Heritage have put together a VE Day pack with the words to the songs and a step by step guide to the dance.
We would love to see you singing and dancing along, so don’t forget to post your best videos online on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram (@TheSwindonian) using the hashtag #VEDaySwindon.
Home baking
If you fancy having a 1945 inspired buffet why not take a look at the official VE Day website – here is a taster menu they have put together which includes Prue Leith’s VE Day inspired Muscovado Flapjacks recipe and Nadiya Hussain’s Preserved Lemon Traybake for desserts.
If you are feeling a little more adventurous, check out the 100’s of authentic ‘Wartime Recipes’ on the 1940’s Experiment website.
