1940s Events in Wakefield

Roll out the barrel with these fun events!

Eleanor Taylor, Experience Wakefield

Roll out the barrel, we’ll have a barrel of fun… with these 1940s events in Wakefield! The district is getting “in the mood” for history with everything from army vehicles to afternoon tea. So dust off your siren suit, practice your jitterbug, and I know we’ll meet again some sunny day!

A woman in a blue 1940s-style dress, hair and makeup singing into a microphone, as part of 1940s Ropergate, a 1940s event in Wakefield

1940s Ropergate

Pack up your troubles and get ready for an event that brings history to life! 1940s Ropergate steps back in time to commemorate Pontefract’s contributions during World War II. Last year brought military vehicles, reenactment groups, exhibitions and 1940’s entertainers. Ropergate businesses even got into the Blitz spirit, and dressed their windows in 1940-style. Plus, don’t miss Wheelfest, taking place at the same time!

📍 Pontefract town centre, WF8 1BD
📅 Saturday 13 June, 10am – 4pm
🎫 Free

1940s Day

1940s Day

Join the National Coal Mining Museum for 1940s Day! Enjoy live music from the time period, explore stalls with unique items, savour sweet wartime-inspired treats, take your picture next to classic 1940s vehicles, and enjoy some dancing. Dressing up in your best 1940s attire is highly encouraged!

📍National Coal Mining Museum, WF4 4RH
📅 Saturday 20 June, 10am – 4pm
🎫 Free, drop in

 

1940s Afternoon Tea

1940s Afternoon Tea

Everything stops for tea! Join the National Coal Mining Museum for a stylish celebration of the 1940s and enjoy a delightful afternoon tea curated by Rich and Fancy of Horbury – accompanied by live performances of iconic 1940s tunes by Lady Lindy Sings! Tuck in to a charming spread featuring a variety of hand cut finger sandwiches, homemade sweet treats, and a freshly baked scone.

📍National Coal Mining Museum, WF4 4RH
📅 Thursday 20 June, 12pm – 2pm
🎫 £15-£30, booking essential

 

wakefield armed forces day - spitfire

Wakefield Armed Forces Day

Wakefield Armed Forces Day honours serving and veteran members of the Armed Forces and military personnel. This year will again feature a stunning flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight including display aircraft from WWII. The event will host a military village, independent market with food, drinks, homemade crafts and gifts, a fantastic parachute display, funfair rides and lots more.

📍Pontefract Park, WF8 4QD
📅 Saturday 4 July, 10am – 4:30pm
🎫 Free, drop-in