On the 8th May 1945 the allied forces announced the surrender of Germany in Europe, marking the end of Hitler’s reign. This day is forever now known as VE Day, short for Victory of Europe Day.  

At 3pm on the 8th May in 1945 Winston Churchill made his iconic speech announcing that the war was over. The Nation celebrated. In Piccadilly Circus over 50,000 people came to wave their flags and cheer. 

On the 8th May 2020 it will be the 75 year anniversary of VE Day. There were big plans to celebrate including street parties and gatherings, all of which, have understandably, been cancelled.

That does not mean we’re not planning on celebrating on Friday. If you’re looking for ideas on how to honour the war heroes of 1945 then look no further.

Here’s how we will be celebrating VE Day at home in lockdown.

Wear Red White and Blue

Have a look through your wardrobe to find clothes that are red, white and blue and wear them proudly.

Make Bunting

Thanks to the BBC you can make your very own VE Day 75 Great British Bunting to display in your windows and homes.The instructions on how to make the bunting can be found here: Great British Bunting. All you need is your favourite craft materials from paper or cardboard to paints, pens, ribbon or string.

The Nation Toast at 3pm

I have a bottle of Prosecco in the fridge all ready for the Nations Toast at 3pm.

“We must never forget the selflessness of all those who sacrificed so much to keep us free during WW II.  This is why I immediately joined up to support the Nation’s Toast.  This meaningful gesture recognises the importance of not only the brave veterans who fought on the front lines but also the courageous women who put their lives in the line for this nation’s struggle.”

Dame Joan Collins, VEDay75

Plant Poppy Seeds in your Garden

In remembrance to the brave heroes we will be planting poppy seeds in our garden to pay our respects.

BBQ and Nibbles

After eating plenty of nibbles, I even bought sausage rolls, we will be firing up the BBQ. We have a trout that we’ve been saving for a special occasion, followed by some minted lamb steaks.

The Queens Speech

I’m not one for tuning in for the Queen’s Speech normally but today is different and times are different. As such our day celebrating will end with the Queens Speech which is being broadcast on BBC One at 9pm from Windsor Castle.

Go Camping in your garden

The weather’s looking good so it’s tempting to get the tent out again! We had great fun camping the garden last month.

Whatever you decide to do, have a wonderful day and enjoy the bank holiday weekend. Here’s to the heroes of WWII and our heroes of today too.