Totton and Eling Town Council and the Royal British Legion to host VE Day 80th celebrations including memorial service, street party, tea dance and parade

FOUR days of free community events are planned in Totton to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Jointly run by Totton and Eling Town Council and the Royal British Legion between 8th and 11th May, the events include a memorial service, a theatrical performance, street party, tea dance, live music, and a parade.

A town council spokesperson said: “The programme will honour the extraordinary service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation from across the UK, Commonwealth and Allied nations, ensuring their memory lives on for future generations.”

An evening of remembrance will be held at the town’s war memorial on Thursday 8th May, beginning with a service from 5.30pm to 6pm. This will be followed by a performance of ‘We’ll Meet Again: A Day to Remember’, which includes live music, poetry and personal stories collected from residents. Organisers have suggested attendees bring a portable chair for comfort.

The following day, there will be community reflection and celebration at the war memorial from 2pm, with Totton Ukulele Group performing wartime classics.

At 9pm there will be a short Lights of Peace parade followed by a WWII sing-along and tribute ceremony. All are welcome, and song sheets will be provided.

A street party will take place on Saturday 10th May on Junction Road between 2pm and 4pm. This will include 1940s-themed music, games, family activities and stalls.

Period dress is encouraged, but not essential.

The commemorations end on Sunday 11th May, with a tea dance at West Totton Centre on Hazel Farm Road. Held between 12.30pm and 4.30pm, there will be a live swing band, dancing, and complimentary cream tea.

Tickets are free, but limited to 100 people and must be obtained in advance from the Civic Centre on Library Road.

The spokesperson added: “This is a significant opportunity for our community to come together to remember, reflect, and celebrate. VE Day shaped the world we live in today, and it is fitting that we honour the brave men and women who secured peace 80 years ago. We encourage everyone to join us at these events and make it a celebration to remember.”

More information, including event updates, can be found at tottoneling-tc.gov.uk/ve2025