Portsmouth Historic Quarter hosts a special VE Day 80 celebration, transporting visitors back to 1945 with live music, dance, historic vessels, costumed interpreters and family-friendly activities. It's to commemorate eight decades since Victory in Europe Day.
Visitors can step onto the dance floor in Boathouse 5 as members of the Portsmouth Lindy Hop group lead energetic swing dance sessions inspired by the era. Music lovers can also enjoy the uplifting harmonies of The Charlalas, a 1940s-style singing trio, whose nostalgic tunes will fill the air of Boathouse 4.
For those eager to explore Portsmouth's naval history, the event offers the chance to get up close to historic vessels on the Boathouse 4 pontoons, including Motor Gun Boat 81 (1942) and High-Speed Launch 102 (1936), both of which played key roles in wartime operations.
Alongside the entertainment, visitors can try their hand at vintage games, sample delicious food inspired by the wartime era, and soak up the atmosphere of a community coming together to reflect and celebrate.
Portsmouth Historic Quarter invites everyone to join in this free event, included with a Historic Quarter Pass, to honour the resilience, joy, and unity of the wartime generation.
Entry to Boathouse 4 and 5 are free with a Historic Quarter Pass (available from the Dockyard entrance) or your Ultimate Explorer Ticket.
Free entry to Boathouse 4 and 5.
| VE Day 80 Celebrations (10 May 2025) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Saturday | 10:00 | - 16:00 |
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