Step back in time and join us for an unforgettable journey into the past!
To celebrate VE Day 80, this weekend promises to be a memorable tribute to the courage, sacrifices and resilience of those who lived through World War II. Through a blend of powerful storytelling, stirring music and immersive historical experiences, we invite you to remember, reflect and celebrate a time that shaped the world. We look forward to welcoming visitors for this special celebration.
🗓️ Saturday 10 May:
12PM: The Commemorative Convoys team rolls into Milestones with a convoy of approx. 65 WWII era vehicles, along with support vehicles and a contingent of special vehicles who have supported past convoys. Having organised similar convoys for D-Day 75 in 2019; a number of Armed Forces Days and the D-Day 80 anniversary in 2024, this will be the last convoy that the team will organise. A full route will be available on their website https://commemorativeconvoys.org/ including the route around Basingstoke and into Milestones.
12:30PM: A welcome party will begin, with speeches from Deputy Lord Lieutenant, the Mayor and Rev. Ed Haycock.
🎶 Live Music & Talks Throughout the Day:
- 10:30AM – Sofia Belifice at the Bandstand
Enjoy the soulful vocals of Sofia Belifice as she kicks off the day with a set of nostalgic tunes. - 12:30PM – Old Basing Ensemble March & Performance
Witness the stirring sight and sound of the ensemble as they parade through the museum, concluding with a performance at the Bandstand. - 1:30PM – Talk: “The Life of Glenn Miller”
Volunteer Ray delves into the life and legend of one of WWII’s most iconic musicians. - 2PM – Talk by David Stiles:
“Southampton Boy Evacuee and the WW2 Blitz”
David shares a personal and compelling look at life as a child evacuee during wartime. - 3PM – Sofia Belifice Returns to the Bandstand
Wrap up the afternoon with another moving performance from Sofia.
💂‍♂️ All Day – Meet David the Coldstream Guard reenactor, sharing stories and engaging visitors on the museum floor.
🗓️ Sunday 11 May:
- 11AM-12PM – Lancashire Belle
Enjoy classic 1940s vocals in the style of Vera Lynn, performed live by our vintage songstress. - 1PM – The Glenn Miller Story
Kelvin Parker presents a 45-minute live performance blending music and narration to tell Glenn Miller’s unforgettable story. - 2:30PM – Talk: “The Wartime Secrets Behind Famous Faces”
Philomena Liggins shares behind-the-scenes stories of celebrities and their surprising wartime roles. (Tram Shed – 1 hour) - 3:30PM – Encore: The Glenn Miller Story
Didn’t catch it the first time? Don’t miss the encore performance of this moving tribute.
🎨 All weekend - Living History and Creative Tributes
Art Exhibition:
Discover the stunning work of Nel, an artist who captures the stories of service personnel in rich, emotional detail.
Interactive Historical Displays:
- Wartime Home Front: Carolyn and the Basingstoke & Hook WI showcase wartime canning, sewing, and knitting practices.
- Messenger Pigeons in War: Denise explores the heroic role of pigeons in military communications.
