About
‘D-Day 80’ marks the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings, a pivotal moment in history. The bravery and sacrifice of those who participated in this operation impacted the course of the Second World War.
A programme of events will take place to mark this significant milestone - providing local groups with an opportunity to bring communities together to remember and commemorate an important part of our shared history.
D-Day 80 Commemorations, Programme of Events:
Town Crier, 8am
Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum, Lisburn
A Town Crier will read the D-Day 80 Proclamation.
Flag of Peace, 9am
Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn
The Nation will come together to raise the Official D-Day 80 ‘Flag of Peace’ and start a day of commemorations on this the 80th Anniversary of D-Day Worldwide.
Royal British Legion Wreath laying, 10am
Lisburn War Memorial
The Royal British Legion is hosting a wreath laying service at Lisburn War Memorial to commemorate D-Day 80. Rev Nicholas Dark will be conducting the service.
D-Day 80 Commemorations, 10.30am to 7pm
Castle Gardens
The Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum will welcome local school and community groups to Castle Gardens to participate in interactive workshops and view exclusive artefacts.
Historical footage screening
Pathé archive footage from WWII will be shown on big screens throughout the day.
Travelling museum
Step back in time to WWII through this mini exhibition curated from the Lisburn Museum’s archives.
Vicker’s machine gun and costume rail
Snap a selfie with an original Vicker’s machine gun alongside a background of the Hillsborough Road during WWII. Children can also dress up in replica army uniform.
Investigation workshops
Find out who evacuees were, how much tea you were allowed in a week and what air raid precautions were from the museum’s education team.
Craft workshops
Make your own cardboard gas masks and spitfire plans at one of a variety of craft workshops held throughout the day. Workshops will include cutting and sticking so guardians are encouraged to help little hands while they work and learn.
School days during WWII
Sit on original school benches and practise writing from the Vere Foster workbook under the watchful eye of the schoolteacher. And find out what you have to do when your lesson is interrupted by the gas rattle!
Victory point
Once the children have completed their WWII tasks, they can collect a goody bag containing 2ozs of rationed sweets, stickers and activity sheets.
Sensory tent
Our dark den space is a cosy corner for anyone who needs a quiet space with books and fidget toys provided for your use.
WWII Taster Tour (10 minutes long, on the hour)
Join one of Lisburn Museum’s expert guides in a bite-size taster to learn about the significance of Lisburn’s war memorial and the repurposed blast shelter that remains in place in Castle Gardens.
D-Day Themed Tea Dance, 2-4pm
Market Square, Lisburn
A 1940s-themed tea dance will take you back to the war years with a reminder of the music and the fashions that were in vogue.
D-Day 80 Beacon Lighting Ceremony
Castle Gardens
Entertainment from the Band of the Royal Irish Regiment. Also featuring Lisburn Young Defenders, local schools and more.
The D-Day 80 beacon will be lit at 9.15pm along with beacons across the nation. The Ceremony now has limited reserved seating.
To register for a seated ticket, please click here - Event - Lagan Valley Island - Lisburn & Castlereagh
Standing space will also be available for anyone who doesn't require a seat.
