The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven is hosting a pop up event to commemorate VE day on Saturday 10 May 2025.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, and communities across the country are coming together to commemorate this important milestone. The Beacon Museum’s event is a chance for the local community to join in these nationwide commemorations in a meaningful and local way.
Visitors can learn about rationing, gas masks, evacuation and some hidden stories from the local area from the Museum’s acquired Whitehaven 1945 Collection. The collection captures the spirit and resilience of the local community at the end of World War II.
Throughout the day, interactive handling sessions will offer a deeper glimpse into what life was like for the people of Copeland during the war. Visitors can learn about rationing, air raids, gas masks, evacuation, and wartime propaganda. Listen out for the gas rattle — and remember to always keep your identity card with you!
Visitors will also be invited to add names to a vibrant Poppy Field Wall, a growing tribute dedicated to those who served in past conflicts and those who continue to serve today. Each poppy placed on the wall will represent a personal connection — a way for families and friends to honour their loved ones and ensure their contributions are not forgotten.
As part of the ongoing development for a WWII exhibition later this year, The Beacon Museum is inviting local residents to share their stories, memories, and wartime artifacts. Staff will be available during the event to speak with anyone interested in contributing. Whether it’s a photograph, a keepsake, or a personal story, your contributions will help enrich the exhibition and provide a local perspective on the history of World War II.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“Events like this bring our history to life and remind us of the strength and spirit of the Cumberland community. The Beacon Museum’s VE Day pop-up offers a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to connect with the past, share their own family stories, and help preserve Copeland’s proud wartime heritage for future generations.”
In addition, The Beacon’s dedicated volunteers have begun creating a proddy mat using a variety of fabrics — and they need your help to complete it. Join in and be part of this creative, project.
This VE Day pop-up promises to be an engaging and reflective day for all ages.
The pop-up event will take place in The Beacon Portal and is free to attend, making it open and accessible to everyone in the community.
For those who would like to explore the main museum galleries during their visit, standard day tickets are available at the following rates:
- Adults: £7.50
- Concessions: £6.00
- Children: £4.00
- Family Ticket: £19.00
A 20% discount is also available for current and former members of the armed forces — a small gesture of thanks for their service.