London Heritage Quarter has announced a special VE Day Garden Party, taking place on 8 May in Lower Grosvenor Gardens, from 12pm to 7pm. The free community event will capture the spirit of the 1940s with an afternoon of vintage celebrations, live entertainment, and creative workshops.
Visitors will be treated to a line-up of live vintage music and swing dance performances, bringing the golden era of the 1940s vividly to life. Performers include Velvet Riot, a glamorous vocal trio renowned for their Andrews Sisters-style harmonies; the soulful jazz singer Ilana Shelley, performing timeless classics from Ella Fitzgerald to Nina Simone; and Danny Daquiri and The Old Fashioneds, delivering a lively set of Motown, jazz, and swing favourites.
For those inspired to get moving, Swing Patrol – a talented group of dancers – will be showcasing high-energy swing dance performances, with the chance for visitors to join in the fun.
Hands-on activities will add to the wartime spirit, with ‘Make Do and Mend’ workshops teaching traditional clothing repair and upcycling skills, alongside creative sessions crafting bunting, badges, and keepsakes from recycled materials. Attendees can relax in the gardens on provided benches and deckchairs, while enjoying cocktails and refreshments from The Alchemist and afternoon tea treats courtesy of Conrad London St. James, available to purchase throughout the day. There will also be vintage garden games to enjoy throughout the day.
The VE Day Garden Party is one of several events taking place in the area to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. Just minutes away at the Guards Museum, visitors can enjoy “A Day in the 1940s” on 10 May – a free-entry event bringing history to life through music, games, re-enactments, and expert talks. Highlights include the chance to handle objects from the museum’s collection, meet Second World War re-enactors, try on authentic Guards uniforms, and enjoy performances from Lancashire Belle, a live 1940s-style singer.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the VE Day 80 concert will also take place nearby at Horse Guards Parade, welcoming up to 10,000 members of the public.
Ruth Duston OBE, CEO of London Heritage Quarter said: “VE Day is an important moment to reflect on our history and bring people together. This event is all about community, creativity and celebrating the unique character of London Heritage Quarter. From vintage music and dancing to hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’re proud to be creating a free, inclusive day out that people of all ages can take part in.”
