Banff Castle set for VE Day anniversary celebration
A community venue will be the backdrop for a full VE Day event on Saturday.
Held at Banff Castle it will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day with music, heritage and a community tribute.
Running from 10.45am to 6pm, the event will feature live entertainment, period displays and family-friendly fun.
At the heart of the celebration will be the community itself, with local schools and groups joining a packed musical programme that also features guest artists - helping to transform the castle grounds into a living tribute to Banffshire’s wartime story.
A highlight of the day will be Paul Thorpe, widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading Elvis tribute artists.
With more than 15,000 performances worldwide and a reputation for uncanny vocal and stage authenticity, Paul brings Elvis Presley’s music to life.
Also performing are The Vintage Girls, delivering close-harmony favourites and swing-era classics in full 1940s style.
The full programme includes live music throughout the day from headline performers and local groups; hourly screenings of The RAF Banff Strike Wing film; Banffshire at War exhibition (running throughout May); vintage vehicle display; children’s fairground rides and activities; stalls, food and drink.
In a striking nod to the Home Front, Banff Castle’s windows have been taped in wartime criss-cross patterns, just as they were in 1945.
Organisers are inviting businesses along High Street and Castle Street to do the same - creating a town-wide tribute in the spirit of the day.
Jo Edwards of Banff Castle Community Association said: “This is a day of shared history, remembrance and celebration.
“We’re pleased to be able to bring people together for an event that honours the past while celebrating the resilience and spirit of this community.”
Tickets can be purchased from the Eventbrite webpage.
There is free entry for veterans, serving personnel, those born on or before 1945, and children aged under five.
