VE Day 80 Celebration

On the evening of 8 May 1945, the BBC announced the end of the Second World War in Europe. The following day was designated Victory in Europe Day, a national holiday celebrated with jubilation. People engaged in street parties, dancing and singing to mark the victory, with bunting, flags and bonfires aplenty.

Preparations are underway for a special 80th VE Day celebration at Hopetown Darlington to take place on Monday 5 May 2025 between 10am-5pm for a special day of connection, commemoration and remembrance– just as communities did 80 years ago. The site will be adorned with Union Jack bunting and flags to capture the spirit of the celebrations.

Local community groups have been invited to a street party in the Goods Yard and general visitors (that's you) can also join in with the celebrations and party atmosphere which will include street music and dance performances.

The free to visit event will include performances from:
- The Daisies (11am, 1.15pm and 3pm)
- Kellen Dance ft. FitLab (12pm and 2pm)
- HC Vocal and Performance Academy (12.30pm)

Between 11am-2pm you can head into The Stores in the Carriage Works where you can:
- Join Hopetown Darlington's director Leona White-Hannant to view and handle historical objects related to the railways
- Join the Stockton & Darlington Railway 26 Miles Heritage Team for reminiscing activities

Many thanks to the Stockton & Darlington Railway 26 Miles Heritage Team for supporting this event.

• 05 May 2025 - 05 May 2025
• 10:00-17:00
• Prices from: Free