VE Day 80 is the celebration of 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe.
We are marking this important event with our own celebrations, which include putting on and promoting free events for those who live or work in the Sevenoaks District between 5 and 9 May 2025.
Outdoor concert and afternoon tea
Join us at St Clere’s Estate, Kemsing on Friday 9 May 2pm to 5pm for a free outdoor concert and afternoon tea to commemorate VE Day 80.
Enjoy an afternoon of live music from the West Kent Concert Band, as well as songs from D'Vine Singers, Sounds Familiar and Nouveau Lounge.
There will also be a traditional afternoon tea with delicious scones, sandwiches and sweet treats.
This nostalgic celebration will honour the spirit of victory, remembrance and community.
Bring your flags, don your best vintage attire and toast to history with a cup of tea as we celebrate this momentous occasion together!
Places must be booked in advance.
1940s Tea Dance
Come along to a free VE Day 80 tea dance at the Eden Centre, Edenbridge on Thursday 8 May 2025 – 1pm to 3pm.
Enjoy an afternoon of dancing to wartime classics and an opportunity to socialise with others.
Channel your inner dancer and learn wartime styles such as the foxtrot, waltz, tango and jitterbug.
There will also be free tea, coffee and cake and carers are welcome to join.
Cooking classes
Step back in time to 1940s Britain and join us for a free 1940s cooking session.
It takes place at The Pavilion in Swanley on 7 May, 11am to 1pm.
Experience the ingenuity and resourcefulness of wartime cooking as we recreate delicious meals using authentic ration-era ingredients.
You will learn how to make hearty dishes, creative substitutes and classic comfort foods that kept families fed during WWII.
Town and Parish events
Throughout the week, Town and Parish Councils will be hosting their own local events which you can also attend without booking, for free (some food and drink charges may apply). For more information about these events, please visit the specific Town and Parish Council websites.
Chevening Parish Council
- Beacon lighting - Thursday 8 May at 9.30pm on Chipstead Green
- Parish picnic (Bring a picnic or buy from food trucks onsite) - Sunday 11 May from 12pm Chipstead Recreation Ground
More information on events
Crockenhill Parish Council
Event on the Village Green – more details to follow
More information on events
Edenbridge Town Council
Free event - more details to follow
More information on events
Halsted Parish Council
Music and exhibits. Bring a picnic or buy food onsite - Thursday 8 May from 6pm - Pavilion Recreation Ground
More information on events
Hartley Parish Council
Beacon lighting, free food (donations welcome) and entertainment, including fireworks - Thursday 8 May from 7pm - Manor Field Sports Pavilion
More information on events
Horton Kirby and South Darenth Parish Council
An evening of songs, with fish & chip supper and other refreshments available to buy - Thursday 8 May from 6pm – Village Hall
More information on events
Penshurst Parish Council
An evening of Big Band music with food available to buy - Saturday 10 May, 7pm to 10pm - Penshurst Village Hall.
More information on events
Riverhead Parish Council
Free tea party that includes sandwiches, cake, tea - Sunday 11 May 2pm to 5pm - Riverhead Village Hall
More information on events
Sevenoaks Town Council
Free concert, procession and beacon lighting - Thursday 8 May from 7pm, the Bandstand in the Vine Gardens.
More information on events
Swanley Town Council
- Afternoon tea with the Mayor – Thursday 8 May 2pm to 5pm, The Alexandra Suite – Booking is required via their website and tickets cost £12.
- Lighting the beacon with free food and entertainment – Thursday 9 May 8.30pm to 9pm, Swanley Recreation Ground.
More information on events
Weald Parish Council
Lighting of the beacon, light show and wartime music - Thursday 8 May from 9.30pm, The Green, off Long Barn Road.
More information on events
Westerham Town Council
Local event with music, entertainment, paid for food stands and more - Monday 5 May, 10am to 5pm, throughout Westerham town.
More information on events
Getting to events
If you wish to arrange transport, there are various options available:
Dial 2 Drive - 0300 777 1200
Compaid - 01892 832447
Go 2 – book via their app.