Mid and East Antrim to commemorate 80th anniversary of VE Day with Borough-wide celebrations

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has announced an extensive programme of events to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, with a series of commemorative activities planned across the Borough throughout May 2025.

The celebrations, designed to honour the historic significance of the end of World War II in Europe, will blend solemn reflection with family-friendly entertainment, aiming to educate younger generations about the sacrifices made for freedom.

The programme, unveiled by the Council, will feature a diverse range of events, from historical talks and exhibitions to musical performances, parades, and children’s activities. These initiatives will take place in Ballymena, Carrickfergus, and Larne, ensuring residents across the Borough can participate in the commemorations.

A Month of Remembrance and Celebration

The festivities commence on 1 May at Larne Museum and Arts Centre with Wartime Reflections, running from 2pm to 4pm. This event will showcase archival footage from the war years, courtesy of Northern Ireland Screen, alongside a reading of The Day the Yanks Dropped In, a short story by a local author inspired by true events.

A special presentation on Animals at War will highlight the often-overlooked contributions of animals during the conflict.

On 3 May, the Andrew Jackson Centre and US Rangers Museum at Boneybefore will host a day of VE80 commemorations from 11am to 4pm.

Visitors can expect a rich programme of talks on wartime themes, including the Belfast Blitz, the presence of US troops in Northern Ireland, the formation of the Belgian army in the region, and Poland’s role in the war. Musical entertainment will be provided by Larne School of Highland Dance, while Rhiannon Campbell and Sharon Dickson will recount the remarkable story of Martye Adair, a local nurse who served in the jungles of Burma. Geoff Hatt will also perform songs from the era, adding a nostalgic touch to the proceedings.

The pinnacle of the celebrations will occur on 8 May, with spectacular Beacons of Freedom events at three iconic locations across the Borough:

• People’s Park, Ballymena, will host performances from 7pm, featuring the Swing Gals, Antrim and Derry Fiddlers, Magheramorne Silver Band, and Geraldine Donnelly dancers. Children’s entertainment will ensure the event appeals to all ages.

• Carrickfergus Town Hall and War Memorial Gardens will come alive with music from Third Carrickfergus Band, Zolene and the ALS Band, Campbell College Pipe Band, and Sir Henry Inglesbys Fife and Drum. A children’s magic show, face painting, and storytelling will add to the festive atmosphere. A parade from the Town Hall to the War Memorial Gardens will precede the lighting of the Beacon of Freedom at 9.30pm.

• Curran Park, Larne, will welcome Kellswater Flute Band, Larne Harbour Accordion Band, and Easy Jazz, alongside storytelling, a children’s magic show, face painting, and community stalls. A parade from Larne Harbour front to Curran Park, starting at 7.30pm, will pay tribute to the port’s significant wartime role.

Engaging Younger Generations

On 10 May, the Andrew Jackson Centre will host a special children’s event featuring author and illustrator Ellan Rankin, who will share her book The Secret Elephant.

The story, inspired by a Belfast zookeeper who protected an elephant from bombing raids by bringing it home each night, will be followed by an arts workshop where children can create their own bookmarks. Due to limited spaces, booking is essential via Ticketsource (www.ticketsource.co.uk/meaevents/t-rpnvagq).

Also on 10 May, Carrickfergus Museum, in collaboration with Carrickfergus Historical Society, will host a vibrant VE80 event at Carrickfergus Town Hall. The day will feature demonstrations, displays, workshops, talks, games, music, and dancing, offering a dynamic celebration of the anniversary. For further details, contact the museum at 028 9335 8241 or email carrickfergusmuseums@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.

A Lasting Legacy

In a bid to engage younger audiences and preserve the Borough’s wartime heritage, the Council has commissioned a bespoke VE80 colouring book.

Illustrated by local artist Louis Humphrey, the book features iconic wartime sites across Mid and East Antrim, including Dunaird Camp in Broughshane, Sunnylands Camp in Carrickfergus, and Larne’s naval base.

Following the success of previous Council colouring books for NI 100, the Jubilee, and the Coronation, this commemorative edition will be distributed at all VE80 events, offering a creative way for families to connect with the region’s history.

A Message from the Mayor

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman William McCaughey, emphasised the importance of the commemorations, stating:

“As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, it is vital that we come together as a community to remember those who served and sacrificed for our freedom. This significant milestone provides an opportunity not only to reflect on our shared history but also to strengthen the civic bonds that unite us.

“I encourage citizens of all ages to participate in these commemorative events and help ensure that the lessons and legacy of World War II are preserved for future generations.”

A Community United in Remembrance

The VE80 programme reflects Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s commitment to honouring the past while fostering community spirit.

By combining historical reflection with accessible, family-oriented activities, the events aim to ensure that the significance of VE Day resonates with residents of all ages.

As the Borough prepares to light its Beacons of Freedom, these celebrations will serve as a poignant reminder of the resilience and unity that defined a generation.

For more information on the VE80 events, visit the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council website or contact the relevant venues directly.