If you happen to be visiting Henley-on-Thames between Thursday 8th and Saturday 10th May, then you’ve picked a fantastic weekend to explore the town! Henley will be brimming with 1940s charm as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a packed programme of commemorative events, entertainment, and vintage experiences.
Thursday 8th May – A Day of Remembrance and Reflection
Start your visit with a stroll through Henley’s Market Place, beautifully decorated with Union flags and bunting. In the morning, local schoolchildren will be learning about the wartime effort, enjoying a traditional fish & chip lunch and waving paper flags in celebration.
In the afternoon, why not stop by Menza Café for a cuppa at the Victory Tea Party, followed by a fascinating talk on Henley’s wartime history? Later in the evening, St Mary’s Church will host a Service of Remembrance, and the day will end with the stirring lighting of a ceremonial beacon and a proclamation reading at Makins Recreational Ground.
Friday 9th May – Let’s Dance!
Get ready to swing into the weekend! Friday night is all about VE Day Dance Fever.
The BIG R 16-piece swing band will get your feet moving, with Lindy Hop dancers leading the way. You’ll find a fully themed 1940s cocktail bar at The Old Bell (complete with popcorn and retro snacks), and the one and only ‘Sir Winston Churchill’ will make a grand entrance in a vintage open-top car before delivering a rousing Victory Address!
This is a ticketed event and is expected to sell out – don’t miss your chance to party like it’s 1945!
Saturday 10th May – A Living History Experience
Saturday is perfect for families, history lovers, and anyone looking to experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of wartime Britain.
From 10am to 4pm, Henley’s Market Place and riverfront will come alive with:
- A real Mark IX Spitfire and crew
- Vintage military and civilian vehicles
- Interactive Home Guard and Cadet drills
- A special Living History display from the wartime Special Operations Executive
- Dunkirk Little Ship trips along the Thames from Red Lion Lawn.
- Delicious bites from the WI food stall and local favourites like Waring’s Bakery
- Historical exhibitions, family-friendly guided walks, and boat displays at River and Rowing Museum and Mill Meadows.
With a possible WWII-era flypast and pop-up 1940s-themed stalls and performances throughout town, this promises to be a truly memorable day.
All for a Good Cause
Best of all, every event is run by volunteers, and all profits will go to the Royal British Legion in support of veterans and their families.
So whether you’re here for the history, the dancing, the vintage vibes—or just a fabulous weekend out—Henley welcomes you to join in this unique celebration of courage, community, and remembrance.
Need help finding tickets, parking info, or where to eat while you’re here? Drop into the Henley Visitor Information Centre at The Town Hall when you arrive.
We’ll see you there—dressed to impress, of course!
