This year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, which will see the nation unite to commemorate 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe, on 8 May 1945.
VE Day 80 is not only a tribute to those who fought for freedom but also a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that have defined our country ever since.
Chelmsford For You is proud to announce their VE Day 80 Commemoration Event on Monday 5 May, a free family-friendly event exploring Chelmsford’s rich World War II history.
Chelmsford For You will be holding a Commemoration Event, sponsored by Chelmsford City Council, in the heart of the city centre from 10am to 5pm and welcomes the whole community to attend. The day promises an engaging mix of educational displays and immersive attractions that will bring the stories of wartime Chelmsford to life. Please see below the details of each element.
This event is being organised by Chelmsford For You and sponsored by Chelmsford City Council alongside a range of partners, including:
Essex Record Office, Historical Military Vehicle Association, Blesma, Chelmsford City Council, Essex County Council, Anglia Ruskin University, Museum of Chelmsford, Hylands Estate, The Salvation Army, Tiptree, First Bus, Spark!, Chelmsford Cathedral and Chelmsford Market.
Here’s a little from our event sponsors, Chelmsford City Council:
“Chelmsford For You’s VE Day 80 event is a wonderful chance for us to come together as a community as we mark the milestone 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe. But it’s not simply a celebration with musical performances and immersive activities. Through an exhibition, historic artefacts and talks, this VE Day 80 event also provides an opportunity for us to learn about, and honour the sacrifices made during the war. From our airmen protecting our land to our soldiers fighting overseas, coupled with the men and women working in Chelmsford’s factories to support the war, down to the children who were evacuated away from their homes and the families who faced rationing and feared for their livelihoods.
“Chelmsford City Council is proud to be the main sponsor of this worthy commemoration, as we continue to reflect on the impact of war and remember why we must always protect and cherish peace and unity.”
Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Janette Potter
In addition to the commemoration event being organised by Chelmsford For You, there are many other events and activities being organised by community groups and organisations to mark the anniversary. You can view a range of these in the below calendar, click on each individual listing for more information. The Chelmsford For You Team will continue to update this calendar as activities are announced.
If you are a local community group/organisation running an event to commemorate VE Day 80, please get in touch to have this added above.