Free street party to help Coventry mark VE Day 80
The anniversary's being marked with an event at Broadgate
People across Coventry are being invited to commemorate 80 years since the end of World War Two with a free street party in Broadgate.
Thursday 8th May will mark 80 years since VE Day, with events planned around the country and in the continent.
Coventry's party will start at 7.00pm that evening and run until 9.40pm.
Those going along can bring their own picnics (but with no glass items) and set up at benches that will be in place around the square.
There will be costumed greeters to welcome people as they arrive, and flags will be provided to wave and 1940s dress encouraged.
Cllr Abdul Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Events at Coventry City Council said: “As a city that suffered so greatly in the war and emerged with a message of peace and reconciliation, it is so fitting that we host a party in the heart of the city to mark the 80th anniversary of such a momentous day in our history.
“We know communities will be hosting their own street parties, but this event will give everyone the chance to come together and celebrate as a city.
“It promises to be a lot of fun for people of all ages, but it also gives us a chance to look back and remember and give thanks for the peace that the people of those years fought so hard to give us.”
Music and entertainment will grace the stage throughout, as well as images from 1945 projected on to a big screen.
The event will also honour the contribution of South Asian communities to thewar and the victory, with a vibrant on-stage display of Bhangra dance as partof the evening’s entertainment.
The evening will close as Coventry joins other towns and cities in lighting a 'Lamp Light of Peace' with the audience invited to join the singing of ‘We’ll Meet Again’ before the National Anthem is played.