Friday 8 May 2020 sees us celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day and we do love an excuse to get out the bunting! With the country in lockdown we’re unable to have the street parties, picnics and fetes that we originally had our hearts set on – but that doesn’t mean you cannot celebrate.
Her Majesty The Queen will be marking the occasion with a national address which airs at 9pm on BBC One, followed by a rousing national sing along of Vera Lynns’s We’ll Meet Again with your neighbours.
Don’t panic if you don’t know the words, The Royal British Legion have you covered.
You can find a full programme of event broadcasts on the gov.uk website.
During the day there are still ways to celebrate while adhering to social distancing guidelines. If you and your neighbours were originally planning a street party, an early evening picnic or afternoon tea in the front garden (if you have one) will certainly give you that same community feel. Co-ordinate a time, arrange an appropriately themed playlist, and pray for the sun to shine!
And don’t forget the national two-minute silence at 11:15am to remember the sacrifice of those who fought in the war.
VE Day home schooling opportunities
Art:
Get the kids involved with a crafty bunting-making activity in the run up to Friday. Start with some simple print, cut and string designs, or for those feeling extra creative you can find blank templates and instructions on the BBC website. We’d love to see what you come up with, so be sure to tag us in your Instagram posts.
History:
Help your children understand why VE Day and acts of remembrance are important with the help of learning resources provided by the Royal British Legion. Each pack includes activities, photos and video content aimed at Key Stages 2 and 3.
Picnic time!
A street party is not a party without a delicious spread of tasty treats. Although you probably don’t need to go for the full buffet spread, you can still whip up something delicious to munch while you enjoy the day’s celebrations and pour yourself a glass of bubbly.
Cakes, nibbles, pies and quiches galore – BBC Food has some excellent ideas of picnic-y bits and pieces you can make and share with your household. (Or keep for yourself!)
Why not have a go at the traditional homity pie – said to be a favourite recipe of the land girls during rationing. Or try some of these other thrifty wartime recipes.
Time to raise a glass to the service and sacrifice of those who gave so much for us 75 years ago. Be safe, and be sure to tag us and #VEday75 in your social media posts so we can see your creativity!
