Host your own VE Day party!

2025 marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) on 8th May and VJ Day (Victory in Japan Day) on 15th August. And it’s an opportunity to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth.

On 8th May 1945, people across Britain celebrated VE Day to mark the end of World War II in Europe. Street parties were held, people danced and communities came together.

Now, you can host your own VE Day party and celebrate just like they did 80 years ago!

What You’ll Need

Bunting & Flags – Make your own red, white, and blue bunting using paper, fabric, or even recycled materials! Print out Union Jack flags to wave, just like children did in 1945.

Embed from Getty Images

Wartime Party Food – Try making some traditional 1940s party treats, like:

Spam sandwiches (or cheese sandwiches if spam isn’t your thing!)
Jam tarts
Rock cakes
Carrot cookies (sugar was rationed, so carrots were used as a sweetener!)

Embed from Getty Images

Music & Dancing – Play some classic wartime tunes like We’ll Meet Again by Vera Lynn or Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and learn how to dance the Lindy Hop!

Games – Children in the 1940s played simple but fun games. Try:

Pass the Parcel (a classic party game still played today!)
Hopscotch
Hand-clapping rhymes like A Sailor Went to Sea

Dress the Part – Dress up like a child from the 1940s! Think about wearing shorts, long socks and a cap. Or, a dress with a ribbon in your hair!

How to Decorate

Hang bunting across the room or outside.
Use picnic tables with checkered cloths.
Make posters with wartime slogans like “Dig for Victory!” or “Keep Calm and Carry On”.

Embed from Getty Images