D-Day 80th Anniversary Commemorations
Dorset is the place to be to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a variety of events happening across the three towns of Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester.
In the run up to this historic anniversary, we have our US Memorial Day service on Monday 27th May at the US Memorial on the seafront, 11am. And on Tuesday 4th June a pre-D-Day concert and sunset service will be performed by Weymouth’s Salvation Army Band, 7pm, the Esplanade near the US Memorial. Everyone welcome!
We are funding various activities in Weymouth on Thursday 6th June to coincide with this poignant anniversary. This date is etched in Weymouth’s history as the town was a departure point in June 1944 for thousands of Allied troops, mainly Americans. Here’s what’s been confirmed so far:
- Jubilee Clock – for a week from June 3rd, the town’s iconic clock will be lit red, white, and blue in honour of the 80th anniversary of D-Day
- Nothe Gardens – display of military vehicles and a celebration of National Fish and Chip Day with local company Bennetts serving up this seaside classic from a van between 4pm and 8pm. Outdoor big screen broadcasting national coverage and historical footage relevant to the era between 3pm and 9pm
- Weymouth Cenotaph – Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypast (Time to be announced and subject to national commitments and weather conditions)
- The Nothe Fort – entertainment, exhibition, immersive soundscape, followed by the international tribute and beacon lighting, all taking place. Various timed slots available between 4pm and 9.30pm which can only be booked here. Beacon lighting is at 9.15pm.
- Local schools – will receive a presentation tailored for school assemblies created by Weymouth Museum
- Harbour and town – walking tours (details coming soon) and boat tours offering unique perspectives on local history. Coastline Cruises boat rides depart Portland Harbour to Weymouth Harbour at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm.
- Weymouth Museum – is creating two walking trails, one for Portland and one for Weymouth, specific to D-Day. These walks will be available in a leaflet. Keep an eye on this page for details on when they are released.
- Weymouth Beach – specially adapted Punch and Judy show on the beach (show times to be announced).
GRANTS AVAILABLE TO COMMUNITY GROUPS
If you are a community or voluntary group based in Weymouth and you would like to put on an event on June 6th to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, you can apply for a grant.
Grants of up to £350 are available to support community-based events or activities with a total of £3,500 up for grabs. The money can be used to fund costs such as food, refreshments, decorations, entertainment, equipment, activity materials, displays, insurance, venue hire, and marketing costs.
Email office@weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk for more details on the application process. Applications will be assessed based on the potential impact of the proposed event or activity on the local community. You can download the grants policy with the application form below: