Armed Forces events across the district
On this page you will find information about the events that are taking place across Newark and Sherwood in relation to celebrating our Armed Forces.
To find out how we support our Armed Forces personnel please visit our Armed forces covenant webpage.
For more information please contact armedforces@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk.
VE Day events
8 May 2025 marks the historic 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. There are lots of events taking place across the district which you and your family and friends can get involved in.
Sunday 4 May - Concert for Peace, Nottinghamshire County Council
Bring along your own chairs, blankets and refreshments to the concert celebrating the end of World War Two! A family friendly event that will immerse you in the sounds and songs of the war time era and music up to the present day.
Featuring performances from the Band of the Royal Engineers, Nottingham Military Wives Choir and the Ukrainian Community Choir. Audience participation including singing along, is encouraged!
Where: Nottingham War Memorial, Victoria Embankment, NG2 2AA.
Sunday 4 May - Bilsthorpe veterans breakfast club
Lunch and entertainment provided - booking essential
Monday 5 May - Friends of Sconce and Devon Park
A VE Day celebration with children’s activities, live entertainment and a best 1940s dressed competition.
Thursday 8 May - VE Day evening celebration at Newark Market Place
Newark Town Council would like to extend a warm invitation to all to enjoy an open-air concert in Newark Market Place commencing at 7pm as part of local celebrations of the anniversary.
Musical entertainment will be provided by Newark & Sherwood Concert Band who will be uniting with Newark Town Band to showcase the incredible talents of these 2 local bands.1940’s singer Jonny Victory will also take us back to the war time era with his vintage sounds.
The evening will conclude with a beacon lighting ceremony as part of national beacon lighting ceremonies that will take place across the country at 9.30pm. Although a limited number of chairs will be provided for guests, we encourage attendees to bring their own chairs in order to enjoy the concert.
Where: Newark Market Place, Newark
Thursday 8 May - Thoresby Courtyard
The Victory Nottinghamshire exhibition will be launched at Thoresby Courtyard on VE Day and then travel throughout the county for visitors and local people to see! The exhibition showcases the war effort made by those on the home front and frontlines. From the darkest days of the Nottingham Blitz to playing its part in training the aviators of Bomber Command, Victory Nottinghamshire tells the story of the people and county of Nottinghamshire and how they helped the Allies achieve victory.
Where: Thoresby Courtyard, Thoresby park, Newark NG22 9EP
Friday 9 May - Newark Services Club
Join Newark Services Club for a VE Day Celebration! Enjoy a 1940s themed evening filled with live entertainment, delicious food and great company! This is an open event – everyone is welcome to join in the celebrations! Bring your friends, family, and community spirit for a fantastic evening! Booking is essential.
Find out more about Newark Services Club 1940s VE Day Celebration
Where: Newark Services Club, 23a London Road, Newark
Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May - Spirit of Wartime Sherwood 1940s
Sunday 11 May - Southwell Minster
A service for VE Day as well as a chance to see the Victory Nottinghamshire exhibition.