Thursday 8th May 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) – a moment of national significance as we remember the end of the Second World War in Europe and pay tribute to those who gave so much for the peace we enjoy today.
Across Chippenham and the surrounding villages, a great programme of events is planned, ranging from acts of remembrance to community gatherings. Here’s your guide to what’s on:
Chippenham Town Council – Flag Raising Ceremony
When: Thursday 8th May, 9am
Where: Steps of the Town Hall, Chippenham
Hosted by: Chippenham Town Council & The Royal British Legion
The Town Council will begin the commemorations with a flag raising ceremony at the Town Hall, accompanied by an Act of Remembrance led by the Royal British Legion. Please arrive by 8.55am to ensure a prompt start. A fitting and respectful way to mark this historic day.
The Royal British Legion
Evening Remembrance and Singing
When: Thursday 8th May, 9.15pm
Where: Market Place, Chippenham
A short Act of Remembrance followed by a public singalong of I Vow to Thee, My Country. All are welcome to take part.
Sunday Service at the Remembrance Garden
When: Sunday 11th May, 2.15pm
Where: Remembrance Garden, John Coles Park
Another opportunity to pause and remember in a peaceful setting.
Sing with Allsorts in the Park
When: Thursday 8th May, 7pm
Where: John Coles Park, Chippenham
Celebrate 80 years of peace with a 20-30 minute singsong of wartime classics and listen to moving excerpts from famous speeches. Bring along your Union Jacks, wear something red, white, or blue, and join in the spirit of the day with the Allsorts Community Choir.
Can’t make it? Don’t worry – the event will be live-streamed on Facebook so you can join in from home: Watch on the Allsorts Community Choir Facebook page
Chippenham Community Hub – Wartime Morning Fun
When: Thursday 8th May, 8.50am – 12 noon
Where: Meet outside the Town Hall, then onto the Hub at 1 Gladstone Parade, Timber Street
Start the morning with the town flag raising at 9am, followed by a wreath laying at the War Memorial. Then back to the Hub for:
- Tea and cake
- A wartime singalong and quiz
- Fish & chips from Timber Street Chippy
- Ration books (for a minimum donation of £2) which include a cup of tea, a slice of Victoria sponge and an ice pop!
All are welcome – dressing up encouraged!
Songs That Won the War – with the Sparkly Singers
When: Monday 12th May, 12 noon – 1pm
Where: Pewsham Community Centre, Lodge Road, SN15 3SY
Cost: £5 on the door (members free)
Join the Sparkly Singers for an uplifting singalong of wartime favourites. No experience needed, just a love of music and community. Dress in red, white and blue if you fancy – and come along for a truly British hour of song and nostalgia.
Sutton Benger’s VE Day 80 Long Weekend
When: Thursday 8th – Sunday 11th May
Where: Sutton Benger Recreation Ground & village venues
A whole weekend of events, open to residents and visitors from across the parishes:
- Thursday 8th May: History-themed evening & Peace Beacon lighting at 9pm
- Friday 9th May: Swing Dance Night
- Saturday 10th May: FREE Family Fun Day – military displays, vintage vehicles, food & drink, and interactive children’s activities
Ticketed events (£5 each): Available from the Wellesley Arms and Christian Malford Stores.
Proceeds to military charities.
REME Museum – Wartime Britain Weekend
When: Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th May
Where: REME Museum, Lyneham
Tickets: Adults £15 / Children £7.50 (Family tickets and annual passes available)
Step back in time at the REME Museum’s annual living history event with:
- WW2 re-enactors & military vehicles
- Demonstrations of wartime equipment
- 1940s swing and big band music
- Food and refreshments from Crown’s Café
- A true VE Day atmosphere across both days
Dogs welcome on the grounds (excluding the museum building), though do take care – there may be loud noises from demonstration equipment.
Book in advance here: www.rememuseum.org.uk
#VEDay80 #ChippenhamRemembers
