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! In this very special 80th anniversary of the end of WWII, the district is getting “in the mood” for history with everything from beacon lighting to afternoon tea. So dust off your siren suit, practice your jitterbug, and I know we’ll meet again some sunny day!

A beacon burning against a night sky, part of VE Day Beacon Launch at National Coal Mining Museum

VE Day Beacon Launch

Join the National Coal Mining Museum for the VE Day Beacon Launch as they commemorate VE Day and the role of the Bevin Boys in the Second World War with the VE Day Beacon Launch. This special evening event with honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served, with a moving memorial service including the lighting of the VE Day beacon, poetry readings and band performances.

📍National Coal Mining Museum, WF4 4RH
📅 Thursday 8 May, 9pm – 10pm
🎫 Free, drop in

A man dressed as a World War 2 home guard soldier stands at a lectern with a microphone, performing in Dad's Army Radio Show

Dad’s Army Radio Show

Don’t panic, but a beloved BBC comedy is coming to Theatre Royal Wakefield! The Dad’s Army Radio Show brings the classic WWII sitcom to life in this acclaimed stage production. Three episodes of the sitcom are enacted on stage by two performers – complete with sound effects, 1940s music and your favourite characters and catchphrases. So don’t tell him, Pike – if word gets out, there might not be any tickets left!

📍 Theatre Royal Wakefield, Wakefield, WF1 2TE
📅 Tuesday 3 June, 7:30pm – 10pm
🎫 £15, booking essential

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 14 June, 10am – 4pm
🎫 Free

A woman in 1940s clothing, including her hair in rollers, carrying a wicker basket that contains a gas mask. She is standing in front of a brick wall with a green door. In the foreground, washing hanging on a line is visible.

1940s Day

Join the National Coal Mining Museum for 1940s Day! See demonstrations of 1940s dances, learn how to do them and join in; listen to the Yorkshire Military Band and Corps of drums; take your picture next to classic 1940s vehicles; and listen to WWII storytelling. Dressing up in your best 1940s attire is highly encouraged – take part in the best dressed competition to win 2 Underground Tour tickets!

📍National Coal Mining Museum, WF4 4RH
📅 Saturday 21 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. Tuck in to hand cut sandwiches, homemade fruit scones, trifle, lemon drizzle cake, brownies, cupcakes, and a handmade meringue – all accompanied by live performances of iconic 1940s tunes!

📍National Coal Mining Museum, WF4 4RH
📅 Thursday 21 June, 12pm – 2pm
🎫 £15-£30, booking essential

 

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