Considering how close I live to Ironbridge I really don’t visit nearly as much as I should. I was pretty stuck for plans for the Bank Holiday Weekend until my Mum mentioned to me that there was an event going on in Dale End Park, Ironbridge.
The sun was shining, so I thought I’d give the World War II Weekend a go.
I grabbed my camera and started the walk down, although it ended up being much longer than I had anticipated so we ended up stopping for a couple of drinks on the way.
When we got to the Ironbridge itself there were lots of people in beautiful 1940’s outfits. There were stunning dresses, cardigans, and fascinators everywhere and the whole place looked incredible.
The shops and restaurants of Ironbridge had got into the full swing of the event. They had signs in their window saying things like ‘Victoria Sponge for Victory’, live bands performing outside and storefronts covered with the British Flag.
The whole of Ironbridge had a lovely atmosphere, and I hadn’t even made it to Dale End Park yet.
By the time we made it down to the main event it was mid-afternoon so it was pretty busy. We grabbed a bite to eat from the food vans and had a little mooch around. The first part was filled with WWII vehicles, stalls selling the cutest vintage clothes and lots of foodie stands.
As we weren’t buying anything we made our way to the part of the event where the re-enactors were. There were different sections for The British Forces, Axis Forces, The Home Front and Our Allies.
The re-enactors were incredible, it was really cool to be able to see what life would have been like and it was fascinating listening to them telling everyone what different weapons and medical supplies would have been used for.
At the bottom of the World War II event there was a cocktail bar, a stage and a mini dance floor. There was entertainment throughout the day but we were able to see one of the singers. Considering it was raining and not many people were about while they tried to shelter, he still put on quite a show.
Although we only spent a few hours at the event there was plenty to do. With entertainment throughout the day I could see how it would be easy to spend the day there. After doing some research when I got home I also found out that you can camp and spend the weekend there, which is definitely something I would have considered if there was a large group of us.
There’s also a dance on the Saturday evening, but you need to have bought a ticket it in advance to attend. Something I’ll definitely look into next time.
I had such a lovely day I am already excited for next year’s event. I will 100% dress up and I am definitely not planning my outfit already, I promise.
Kirsty Leanne
xoxo
