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Step back to 1945 as The Auckland Project marks 80 years since VE Day with May half-term family fun
Families are invited to travel back in time this May as The Auckland Project continues to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe – the end of the Second World War in Europe – with a final celebration during May half-term.
On Saturday 31 May, Bishop Auckland will come alive with the sights and sounds of 1945 for a day of music, crafts, food and nostalgic fun.
The commemorations begin at 11am with a rousing performance by the Bishop Auckland Pipe and Drum Band, who will march from Robinson Arch clock tower to Auckland Palace’s arrivals court, filling the palace broadwalk with wartime tunes. Live music will continue throughout the day with performances by The Lipsticks 1940s trio and Ferryhill Brass Band.
Little ones can get creative with free craft activities, from flag-making to designing their own medals, while history lovers can meet reenactors, explore vintage military vehicles and decommissioned weapons, and try on authentic uniforms.
Visitors can also tuck into tasty treats including VE cupcakes, ice cream, and a twist on the wartime classic with a Woolton-inspired Pie – a hearty, veggie-packed dish named after the wartime Minister of Food, Frederick Marquis, 1st Earl of Woolton.
Prior to VE Celebrations, there will also be more half-term family fun. These activities include craft workshops priced at £5 per person, however the rest will be free including an archaeology GPS Trail, Archaeology Finds, Kids Picture Quiz Trail and Garden Games on Auckland Palace’s Bowling Green.
As a regeneration charity, The Auckland Project is revitalising Bishop Auckland as a major cultural destination, celebrating the town’s rich history – from the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham to its surprising ties to the Spanish Golden Age. Through heritage, art, and community engagement, the charity is creating opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
Why not make a day of it? Explore Auckland Palace and its beautiful gardens, take in the UK’s first Faith Museum, and dive into the town’s rich heritage at The Spanish Gallery and Mining Art Gallery.
For more information, visit The Auckland Project's website
Family Activities
Wednesday 28 – Friday 30 May
Free, drop-in activities unless otherwise stated.
Crafts – FREE
Old Library | 10.30am – 2.30pm
Archaeology GPS Trail
Start at the QR Code by Auckland Tower | From 10.30am
A techy treasure hunt with an archaeological twist!
Archaeology Finds
Marquee on the Bowling Green | 10.30am – 2.30pm
See what’s been uncovered on our local digs.
Kids Picture Quiz Trail
Collect your sheet from Auckland Tower | 10.30am – 3.00pm
Solve the clues and discover fun facts as you go.
Garden Games
Bowling Green | 10.30am – 3.00pm (until Saturday 31 May)
Unwind with traditional outdoor games in the fresh air.
Workshops – Craft Sessions (£5/child)
Wednesday 28 & Thursday 29 May
Join us for a fun-filled, hands-on creative session for just £5 per child.
Children aged 5+ and their adults can explore two exciting activities: mono printing and pinch pot making! Each session lasts one hour, and all creations can be taken home.
Learning Rooms
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Book online or via Auckland Tower
Session Times: 11am, 12 Noon, 1pm
Book Now
VE Day Celebrations – Saturday 31 May
Step back in time and celebrate Victory in Europe Day with a full day of free music, activities and living history.
Living History Re-enactors
Around the Main Entrance & Arrivals Court | 10.00am – 3.00pm
Children’s Crafts & Activities
Old Library | 10.30am – 2.30pm
Garden Games
Bowling Green | 10.30am – 3.00pm
Live Performances:
Bishop Auckland Pipe & Drum Band
From Clock Tower to Arrivals Court | 11.00am – 11.30am
Return Journey | 1.30pm – 2.00pm
The Lipsticks – 1940s Trio
Under the Tree, Arrivals Court | 11.30am – 12 Noon & 12.30pm – 1.00pm
Ferryhill Brass Band
Under the Tree, Arrivals Court | 12 Noon – 12.30pm & 1.00pm – 1.30pm
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Find out what’s happening this week across the Culture County. From festivals and exhibitions, to sport and theatre, you’re certain to have an eventful time in Durham.
