Ideas for celebrating VE Day 75 at home

The May Bank Holiday was moved this year to encourage three days of celebrations to mark VE Day 75, over the weekend of 8th to 10th May. The Coronavirus lockdown has had a big impact on this, with most events cancelled. But, don’t dispair you can still join in from home, to mark this significant milestone of 75 years since the end of WW2 in Europe.

Many villages are coordinating a day of activities similar to this one from Burwash Common. Activities enable participants to keep to social distancing while getting into the spirit of things; right down to remote church services and ideas like setting up a table and chairs outside your house so you can sit outside and wave at your neighbours!

Check out your local community Facebook or church page for details of what’s ‘on’ near you.

People are also being encouraged to undertake the ‘Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2’ to tie in with the Churchill speeches that will be broadcast at 3pm on the 8th May. This all takes place from the safety of your own home, you can stand up and raise a glass of your choice and make the following ‘Toast’ – “To those who gave so much, we thank you,” using this unique opportunity to pay tribute to the many millions at home and abroad that gave so much to ensure we all enjoy and share the wider freedoms we have today.

In need of some decorations? You could also join in your BBC Local Radio station initiative and make your own VE Day Great British Bunting. Download everything you need at bbc.co.uk/makeadifference

You may not be able to create a spread to equal one from Horam Home Kitchen (order book is full), but anyone can bake a few cakes or scones for their very own victory tea! Check out Mary Berry’s classic Victoria Sponge recipe.

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy Bank Holiday Victory in Europe 75!