To mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), the London Heritage Quarter is hosting a free, family-friendly Vintage Garden Party in Lower Grosvenor Gardens on Thursday 8 May 2025, from 12pm to 7pm. The event promises an unforgettable step back in time, with 1940s music, dancing, creative workshops and entertainment suitable for all ages.
This charming celebration is part of a wider programme of VE Day 80th anniversary events taking place across central London, including an immersive living history experience at The Guards Museum and a major commemorative concert at Horse Guards Parade.
VE Day Garden Party Highlights
Set in the leafy surroundings of Lower Grosvenor Gardens, the Garden Party will bring the spirit of the 1940s to life with:
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Live Vintage Music: Performances throughout the day from Velvet Riot (vocal harmony trio), Ilana Shelley (vintage jazz singer), and Danny Daquiri & The Old Fashioneds (Motown, jazz and swing).
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Swing Dance Performances: High-energy routines and audience participation led by Swing Patrol.
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Creative Workshops: From ‘Make Do and Mend’ clothing repair sessions to bunting-making, badge- and keyring-crafting with recycled materials.
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Food & Drink: Cocktails by The Alchemist and afternoon tea provided by Conrad London St. James (available for purchase).
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Vintage Garden Games: Traditional outdoor fun for children and adults alike.
Attendees can relax in deckchairs and enjoy the music, join in a swing dance, or get hands-on in a variety of themed workshops throughout the day.
Event Schedule Snapshot
12–1pm – Velvet Riot (live music) & clothing repair workshop
1–2pm – Swing Patrol (dance performance)
2–4pm – Background vintage music
4–5pm – Ilana Shelley (live music) & bunting-making for kids
5–6pm – Swing Patrol (dance session #2)
5.30–6.30pm – Badge and keyring making
6–7pm – Danny Daquiri & The Old Fashioneds (live music)
Other VE Day 80th Anniversary Events Nearby
A Day in the 1940s at The Guards Museum
On 10 May, just minutes away from the Garden Party, The Guards Museum will host a free living history experience. Visitors can:
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Interact with Second World War re-enactors
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Try on authentic Guards uniforms
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Handle real wartime objects
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Enjoy live 1940s-style music by Lancashire Belle
VE Day 80 Concert at Horse Guards Parade
A major open-air concert will also take place at Horse Guards Parade, welcoming up to 10,000 attendees to honour this milestone in British history.
Alternative Family Activity: Celebrate with a VE Day Puzzle
For families who can’t attend the London events or are looking for a quiet at-home activity, UK puzzle experts All Jigsaw Puzzles are marking VE Day 80 with commemorative jigsaws that double as fun learning tools.
Two standout releases include:
VE Day 80th Anniversary Puzzle by Patrick Blower
From The Telegraph’s best-selling ‘According to Blower’ series, this beautifully illustrated 1000-piece puzzle captures VE Day scenes with tanks, troops, street parties, and iconic wartime headlines. A joyful, cartoon-style tribute to those who helped shape modern Britain.
Imperial War Museum VE Day Jigsaw
This commemorative puzzle features a historical photo montage from the IWM archives, offering a heartfelt and educational activity for families. It celebrates the moment the war in Europe ended, honouring the sacrifices and hope of a nation.
Both puzzles are made from 100% recycled materials and are available for pre-order now via All Jigsaw Puzzles.
A Message from London Heritage Quarter
“VE Day is an important moment to reflect on our history and bring people together,” says Ruth Duston OBE, CEO of London Heritage Quarter. “This event is all about community, creativity, and celebrating the unique character of the area. From vintage music and dancing to hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Plan your VE Day celebrations – whether you’re heading to Grosvenor Gardens or piecing together the past at home. For more information, visit: www.londonhq.co.uk and www.alljigsawpuzzles.co.uk.
