Celebrate VE Day with a festival at home thanks to Mansfield business

Stacey Robinson owns ARTventurers, running art and creative play classes, events and parties for babies and children in the Mansfield and Ashfield area.

She is part of the nationwide ARTventurers franchise team which dreamed up ‘The Big Neighbourhood VE Day 75 Family Festival at Home’.

Stacey said: “It’s such a shame that the great events and street parties that had been planned have had to be postponed, but obviously everyone’s health and safety is the most important thing right now.

“As a business we decided it would be a lovely idea if we could use some of our resources to create an at-home festival for families to enjoy.”

Since the idea was formed just two weeks ago it has had an amazing response and now tens of thousands of families are joining in across the UK.

The ARTventurers Team have designed free festival packs that people can download at home and use to make bunting, flags and other decorations, and then on the day itself they are streaming free sessions for all ages on Facebook.Stacey continued: “We’ve got everything from vintage dance for kids to magic and circus skills, a 1940’s lunchtime concert and a mini disco in the evening.”

The focal point of the day will be the Nation’s Toast at 3pm when people across the UK are asked to raise a glass or cup to the heroes of World War Two.

“The most important thing to remember is that people must stay at home and observe the social distancing guidelines” added Stacey.

“We’re all going through very sad and uncertain times right now. However this event is something that we’re all really looking forward to. It’s a lovely opportunity for us all to celebrate together, whilst staying apart.”Anyone wishing to join in with the festival event can search on Facebook for “The Big Neighbourhood VE Day Family Festival at Home” or visit https://www.artventurers.co.uk/the-big-neighbourhood-v-e-day-family-festival/