This year, our May bank holiday will be on Friday 8th May instead of Monday 4th May. This is because 8th May 2020 is the 75th anniversary of the end of World war II in Europe.
It is known as VE Day (Victory in Europe) and marks the end of almost 6 years of fighting. In London, tens of thousands of people came into the city centre on this day. They listened to a speech by Prime Minister Winston Churchill in Trafalgar Square. George VI, Queen Elizabeth and their two daughters, Elizabeth (our Queen) and Margaret, also greeted the cheering crowds from their balcony at Buckingham Palace.
These scenes of joy were the same throughout the United Kingdom: People put up flags, banners and streamers everywhere. There were parties, fireworks, and some people wore red, white and blue rosettes. People hugged, sang songs and danced.
Many schools and communities would have been learning about VE Day and commemorating this event, and we know that many of you will still be doing this. Please feel free to use some of the resources below to help you learn and commemorate at home.
What is VE Day?
VE Day Fun Activities
https://northleeds.mumbler.co.uk/ways-to-celebrate-ve-day-at-home-with-the-family-during-lockdown/
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/t3-h-118-make-your-own-ve-day-street-party-lesson-pack
https://ve-vjday75.gov.uk/dan-snows-ve-day-challenge/