1940s Events
What's on and Where for 1940s Event Enthusiast
2025 1940s Events
The Kelham Hall Vintage Festival
April 11th to 13th
The Kelham Hall Vintage Festival is scheduled for April 11 to 13, 2025, at The Renaissance at Kelham Hall in Newark, Nottinghamshire (NG23 5QX).
This three-day event celebrates the music, fashion, and culture of the 1920s to 1950s, offering attendees a rich vintage experience.
Festival Highlights:
- Live Entertainment: The festival will feature performances from various artists, covering genres from jazz to rock 'n' roll. Evening entertainment is scheduled from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with daytime performances from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Vintage Shopping: Over 30 exhibitors from across the UK will offer a selection of vintage clothing, jewellery, and accessories from the 1920s to 1950s. The main indoor marquee and carriage court will host these traders, providing ample opportunities for attendees to find unique items.
- Dance Lessons: Free dance lessons in styles such as Lindy Hop, Jive, Shag, Peabody, and Balboa will be available throughout the weekend in the Kelham Great Hall, encouraging participants to immerse themselves in the era's dance culture.
- Classic Vehicles: The festival will showcase vintage cars and motorcycles from the 1920s to 1950s, allowing visitors to appreciate the automotive designs of the period.
Ticket Information:
- Daytime Tickets (Saturday and Sunday): £16 for adults, £6 for children.
- Weekend Daytime Tickets: £28 for adults.
- Evening Entertainment Tickets: £19 per evening for adults.
- Weekend Tickets (3 evenings and 2 daytimes): £64 for adults.
- Standard ticket prices are available until April 10, 2025; prices will increase for on-the-door purchases.
Set within 42 acres of picturesque gardens, Kelham Hall offers a stunning backdrop for the festival. Attendees are encouraged to dress in period attire to enhance the immersive experience.
For more information, visit the official festival website.
Sandtoft 1940s Weekend
April 19th, to April 21st
The Sandtoft 1940s Weekend is scheduled for Saturday, April 19, to Monday, April 21, 2025, at The Trolleybus Museum in Sandtoft, Doncaster (DN8 5SX).
This annual event offers attendees an immersive experience of the 1940s era, celebrating the history and culture of the time.
Event Highlights:
- Entertainment: Throughout the weekend, enjoy live 1940s music performances, with opportunities to dance and revel in the period's ambience.
- Vintage Vehicles: Explore displays of classic cars, military vehicles, and, notably, the museum's collection of historic trolleybuses.
- Trade Stalls: Browse various stalls offering vintage clothing, memorabilia, and other 1940s-themed items.
- Reenactments: Experience living history displays with reenactors portraying World War II scenarios, providing insights into the era's daily life.
Event Details:
- Dates: Saturday, April 19, to Monday, April 21, 2025
- Time: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily
- Location: The Trolleybus Museum, Belton Road, Sandtoft, Doncaster, DN8 5SX
Additional Information:
Facilities: On-site parking, refreshments, a souvenir shop, and partial disabled access are available for attendees.
Transportation: The museum is accessible via the 387 bus route, and the nearest rail station is Crowle, approximately 5 miles away.
For more details and updates, visit the official Facebook group of the Sandtoft Trolleybus Museum.
Fort Paull 1940s Weekend
May 4th, and, May 5th
Fort Paull is hosting its annual 1940s Weekend on Sunday, May 4, and Monday, May 5, 2025.
This event offers attendees an immersive experience into the 1940s era, set within the historic battery, with a history dating back to Henry VIII.
Event Highlights:
- Reenactment Groups: The organizers seek reenactment groups representing various World War II factions, excluding SS portrayals. Camping facilities will be available for participants just outside the main fort.
- Traders and Entertainment: To enhance the 1940s experience, the event is looking for vintage and military traders and entertainers.
Event Details:
- Dates: Sunday, May 4, and Monday, May 5, 2025
- Location: Fort Paull, Battery Road, Paull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU12 8FP
The fort, which closed in 2019, is undergoing efforts to restore it to its former glory, with events like this supporting its revival.
For more information and updates, visit the official Fort Paull 1940s Weekend Facebook event page.
Melton Mowbray VE Day Celebrations
10th and 11th May
Melton Mowbray commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a series of events and activities throughout May 2025.
Central to these celebrations is the annual 1940s Melton Mowbray Weekend, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, May 10 and 11, 2025.
This event promises to transform the town into a vibrant 1940s setting, featuring period fashion, music, and activities that reflect the era when Britain celebrated the end of World War II in Europe.
The weekend will showcase live performances from renowned artists such as Miss Lily Lovejoy, Lady Mary Kingsworth, Jeep Johnson, Beau Norton, Kyle, and Rebecca. Attendees can explore numerous shopping opportunities, engage with various groups and displays, and participate in family-friendly activities designed to immerse visitors in the 1940s atmosphere.
In addition to the 1940s Weekend, the Melton Borough Council is encouraging local communities to organize their VE Day celebrations on or around Thursday, May 8, 2025. To support these initiatives, the council has launched a small grant fund totalling £7,000, and eligible community groups, charities, and parish councils are invited to apply for grants ranging from £70 to £700. The application deadline for these grants is March 7, 2025.
These collective efforts aim to create a memorable and immersive experience for residents and visitors alike, honouring the historical significance of VE Day and celebrating the enduring spirit of the Melton Mowbray community.
The Spirit of Wartime Sherwood
May 10th and 11th
The Spirit of Wartime Sherwood event is scheduled for May 10 and 11, 2025, at Thoresby Park in Nottinghamshire.
This immersive experience transports visitors to the 1940s, offering a rich blend of history, entertainment, and nostalgia.
Event Highlights:
- Living History Camps: Explore military encampments representing Allied and Axis forces, providing insights into World War II military life.
- Homefront Displays: Discover exhibits showcasing civilian life during the war, illustrating the resilience and daily experiences of those on the home front.
- Vintage Vehicles: Admire a collection of period vehicles that once traversed the roads during the 1940s.
- Vintage Village: Peruse stalls offering vintage clothing, memorabilia, and other 1940s-themed items, perfect for enthusiasts and collectors.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances of 1940s music by talented entertainers, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere.
Event Details:
- Dates: Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily
- Location: Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9EP
- Admission: Free entry; a £5 all-day car parking fee applies.
Camping Information:
For those wishing to extend their experience, weekend camping is available from Friday, May 9, to Monday, May 12, 2025. Priced at £40 (plus booking fee), this includes a pitch for a family of four for three nights, accommodating caravans, tents, and campers. Amenities include water points, Elsan disposal, showers, and toilets. Check-in is from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday, with check-out by 10:00 AM on Monday.
For more information and updates, visit the official Thoresby Park website or the event's Facebook page.
Operation Ashbourne
June 7th and 8th
Operation Ashbourne is scheduled for June 7 and 8, 2025, at Darley Moor Airfield in Ashbourne, United Kingdom.
This event offers attendees an immersive experience of the 1940s, celebrating the history and culture of the time.
Event Highlights:
- Living History Displays: Reenactment groups will set up military encampments, providing insights into World War II military life.
- Vintage Vehicles: A display of classic vehicles from the 1940s will be available for attendees to explore.
- Entertainment: Live 1940s music and dance will enhance the nostalgic atmosphere.
Event Details:
- Dates: Saturday, June 7th, and Sunday, June 8th, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
- Location: Darley Moor Airfield, Ashbourne, United Kingdom
For more information and updates, visit the official Facebook event page.
The Severn Valley Railway (SVR) Step Back to the 1940s
June 7th - 8th and June 14th - 15th
The Severn Valley Railway (SVR) is hosting its annual "Step Back to the 1940s" event over two weekends: June 7–8 and June 14–15, 2025.
This immersive experience invites visitors to relive the 1940s along the heritage railway's 16-mile line, spanning Shropshire and Worcestershire.
Event Highlights:
- Costumed Re-enactors: Engage with enthusiasts dressed in period attire, portraying military personnel and civilians, bringing wartime Britain to life.
- 1940s Displays: Explore authentic exhibits, including replica homes, shops, and air-raid shelters, offering insights into daily life during the 1940s.
- Historic Vehicles: Admire a collection of vintage vehicles from the era, showcasing the transportation modes of the time.
- Entertainment: Enjoy live performances of 1940s music and dance, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere.
- Battle Reenactments: Witness simulated battles that depict wartime scenarios, providing a glimpse into the conflicts.
Event Details:
- Dates: Saturday and Sunday, June 7th - 8th and June 14th - 15th, 2025
- Locations: All SVR stations, including Kidderminster, Bewdley, Arley, Highley, Hampton Loade, and Bridgnorth, will host various activities and displays.
- Admission: Tickets are £42.00 for adults and £28.00 for children aged 4–17. These can be purchased in advance or on the day.
Additional Information:
- Accessibility: The SVR provides facilities for visitors with disabilities; however, it's advisable to check specific accessibility options at each station.
- Parking: Available at most stations, with fees applicable.
- Refreshments: Period-themed food and drink will be available at various locations along the railway line.
For more details and updates, visit the official SVR website or follow their Facebook page.
Crowland and Thorney 1940s Weekend
June 21st, and , June 22nd
Free Entry For Accompanied Children Under 16
The Crowland and Thorney 1940s Weekend is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, 2025, at Park Farm in Thorney, Peterborough.
The event commemorates the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day, offering attendees a chance to experience the era's ambience.
Visitors can explore living history displays, vintage stalls, and classic vehicles, including the restored Crowland Buffalo LVT, and live 1940s music performances.
A Saturday evening dance that is free to attend, featuring music from the 1940s to the 1980s.
The event runs from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday. Tickets are £10 per adult, with free entry for accompanied children under 16.
Attendees are encouraged to dress in period dress, and fully immerse themselves in the 1940s experience.
Free parking is available on-site.
Damhouse 1940s Weekend
June 21st and 22nd
The historic Damhouse in Astley, Manchester, is hosting its inaugural 1940s Weekend on June 21 and 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM on both days.
This event offers attendees a chance to experience the 1940s, with activities and displays planned.
Better still, you can meet some of the 1940s Radio Presenters, Lord Dave Dawes, Nikki Salt, Sammie J, and Ben Wilkes will be spinning the discs on Saturday.
Visitors can view vintage automobiles, and military vehicles, and engage with re-enactors who bring history to life. The weekend will also feature live music, dance performances, and various stalls offering period memorabilia.
Visitors are encouraged to dress in 1940s style and fully immerse themselves in the experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique weekend activity, the Damhouse 1940s Weekend promises a memorable journey back in time.
Located at M29 7TX in Atherton, the venue provides free parking for attendees.
Carnforth 1940s Weekend
June 28th and 29th
The Carnforth Station Heritage Centre in Morecambe, UK, is set to host its inaugural 1940s Weekend on June 28 and 29, 2025. The event commemorates the 80th anniversary of the classic film "Brief Encounter," which was filmed at Carnforth station and released in 1945.
This free, family-friendly event promises many activities transporting attendees back to the 1940s. Visitors can look forward to live music performances, jive classes, and appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Churchill impersonators. The celebration will also feature vintage cars, tractors, military vehicles, model railways, a 1940s fairground, and various stalls. For those eager to immerse themselves fully, best-dressed competitions and a vintage catwalk are planned, encouraging participants to dress to impress.
The festivities extend into the evening at the Royal Station Hotel, hosting a 1940s-themed party on Saturday, June 28, featuring live music from Boogie Bill in their ballroom. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the era's fashion, adding to the immersive experience.
You will find 1940s Radio, Lord Dave Dawes at Carnforth all weekend on the main stage doing what he does best.
This weekend offers a unique opportunity to celebrate a significant cinematic milestone while experiencing the vibrant culture and history of the 1940s. Whether you're a film enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an engaging weekend activity, the Carnforth 1940s Weekend promises something for everyone.
Ingleton 1940s Weekend
July 4th to July 6th
Ingleton is hosting its annual 1940s Weekend from Friday, July 4, to Sunday, July 6, 2025.
This free event invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the nostalgia of the 1940s with entertainment and activities planned throughout the village.
Event Highlights:
- Live Entertainment: The weekend starts with a performance by the fabulous Sadie - Yorkshire Singer on Friday, July 4.
Throughout the event, attendees can enjoy live bands, music, and dance performances reminiscent of the era. - Themed Decorations: Local shop fronts will be adorned with 1940s decorations, creating an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
- Trade Stalls: Stalls will offer vintage items, memorabilia, and more, providing ample opportunities for shopping and exploration.
- Military Displays: View military vehicles and watch military parades, offering insights into the wartime period.
- Classic Cars: Classic cars and military vehicles will line the streets, showcasing the automotive history of the 1940s.
Event Details:
- Dates: Friday, July 4, to Sunday, July 6, 2025
- Location: Ingleton Village, North Yorkshire, LA6 3HG, United Kingdom
- Admission: Free
For more information and updates, visit the official Ingleton 1940s Weekend website or follow their Facebook page.
RAF Harrowbeer 1940s Weekend
August 16th and 17th
The RAF Harrowbeer 1940s Weekend is scheduled for August 16 and 17, 2025, at the historic RAF Harrowbeer airfield near Yelverton, Devon. The annual event commemorates the World War II airfield and honours the 72 personnel who died while serving there.
2025 will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.
Attendees can expect a variety of attractions, including displays of military and vintage vehicles, reenactments, and live 1940s music and dance performances. Notably, two historic aircraft engines, a 'Cheetah engine from an Avro Anson and a 1943 'Merlin engine from an Avro Lancaster will be on display, offering visitors an up-close experience of aviation history.
Attendees are encouraged to dress in 1940s attire to enhance the immersive experience. For more details, including directions and updates, visit the official RAF Harrowbeer 1940s Weekend website.
The event is free and runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on both days.
The Boat Inn 1940s Day
6th Sept 2025
The Boat Inn 1940s Day is an annual event that transports visitors back to the 1940s, celebrating music, fashion, and history.
Scheduled for September 6, 2025, this immersive experience offers a variety of attractions:
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances by vintage singers and entertainers, bringing the sounds of the 1940s to life.
- Historical Displays: Explore exhibits featuring vintage military vehicles and reenactments, providing insights into the World War II period.
- Charity Support: The event often supports charitable causes, such as Combat Stress, aiding veterans and their families.
Set in the picturesque location of Ironbridge, the event offers a nostalgic journey into the past, making it a highlight for history enthusiasts and families alike.
