Fitting festivities to remember Victory in Europe 80 years on
Our amazing House/Estate Managers pulled out all the stops to make VE Day 2025 really special. The fact that many of our homeowners remember VE Day and some, like centenarian John, bravely served in World War II, made the day even more important for everyone in our communities. There were parties, bunting, baking and buffets galore as well as pie and mash, sing-alongs, fancy dress, fancy footwork and plenty of trips down memory lane. Here’s just a small selection:
A festival of fun in Burgess Hill
Homeowners at Corbett Court, a Retirement Living PLUS community in West Sussex, enjoyed a mock movie theatre, a vintage car and a professional dance routine in the gardens–which included fire batons to emulate the lighting of the beacon. They also played 'Pin the cigar on the Churchill' before digging into a lively community lunch.
History and tradition in Clevedon
Homeowners at The Pottery in Somerset gave presentations about their own experiences of the war and memories of VE Day in 1945 and put together a collection of personal memorabilia for all to see. They were also treated to a talk by a social historian, in full Auxiliary Territorial Service uniform, on the role of women in World War II. Memories were prompted by a vintage military vehicle from the Shopland Collection parked in the front of the development and there was a ceremonial raising of the official 80th anniversary VE day flag in the gardens. Finally, the ‘D-Day Dollies’ musical duo performed a selection of war time songs and homeowners enjoyed a themed buffet including spam fritters and Victory cake.
Children and crafts in Hazelmere
Trinity Place in Buckinghamshire welcomed Manor Farm Infants reception class children for a special VE Day celebration. They had a fantastic time crafting their very own colourful bunting, which was proudly displayed during their festivities later in the week. It was the perfect project to help the children feel part of this meaningful event while having fun.
A street party in Cardiff
Thomas Court in South Wales celebrated VE Day with a street party in the sunshine. Homeowners, staff and guests came together to share memories and enjoyed a rations themed buffet and a glass of wine or sarsaparilla. They ate, drank, sang and danced the afternoon away.
Cake and a singalong in Leicester
Homeowners at Mulberry Court, Leicestershire, reminisced over old photos including one of a homeowner at the original celebrations. They enjoyed music from the era and a bit of singalong. Two homeowners made special VE Day celebration cakes, which were amazing.
Join a community that celebrates the important things in life
From independent living retirement properties to assisted living at our Retirement Living PLUS apartments, our lovely homes in stunning locations are thoughtfully designed so you can make the most of your retirement whether you’re just over 60 or heading for 100 – and you’ll have a lively community of new neighbours on the doorstep too.
Learn more our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
