The Great British Food Festival

80 years ago, the nation came together to celebrate the end of the Second World War in Europe. To mark the occasion this year, we’re having a great big party – The Great British Food Festival, and everyone is invited!

Let’s celebrate together on Monday 5th May.

Dagenham VE day street party

Back in 1945, crowds filled the streets in cities, towns and villages across the country – sharing the moment they had feared might never come. They celebrated the end of the war after five long years, giving thanks for victory, and the way of life it secured.

So, this bank holiday Monday 5th May, we will get together again over all our favourite food. It could be something as simple as cooking up a BBQ with your mates, a fry up, a curry night, a Big Lunch with your neighbours or even a street party.

Whatever you choose to do, now is a good time to start thinking about how you can get together and share food to celebrate our Second World War victory on Monday 5th May.

Two boys smiling with melon rinds as smiles

5 Simple Steps for your Great British Food Festival

  1. Get together with friends and plan your food activity on Monday 5th May
    Or – see if your local council is hosting something.
  2. Location: If you’re hosting, think about where you’ll host it in a location that is accessible to everyone.
  3. Get everyone involved: Invite your friends/neighbours/colleagues to bring food and join in – Use the Great British Food Festival Invites.
  4. Food! Start thinking about what sharing dishes you could make.
  5. Set up and Serve on Monday 5th May!

Get tips and materials to help you host

The Great British Food Festival is a chance for us to say thank you to the last of a great generation, celebrate the country we are today, and the values we share, together. A chance to remember that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when we work together. A chance to celebrate what’s remarkable about our communities and the people around us today. Join us on Monday 5th May.