Victory in Europe (VE) Day, celebrates the surrender of Nazi Germany to Britain and its Allies on 8 May 1945, bringing nearly six years of conflict to a close. The announcement to the public by Prime Minister Winston Churchill ignited celebrations throughout the nation, commemorating this pivotal moment in history.

Now, 80 years later, we reflect on home life during the lead up to VE Day and the return to a pre-war way of life. With the declaration of war, the Ministry of Food was created, with William Morrison serving as its first minister. On 1 November 1939, he revealed that rationing would soon be implemented. The British public, facing rising prices, was generally receptive to the idea. Rationing officially began in January 1940, aimed at ensuring equitable distribution of food in a nation that had lost many of its traditional imports; at the war’s outset, 70% of Britain’s food and livestock feed came from abroad. This marked a significant shift in British society, moving from a largely free market to one governed by centralised control and planning. Civilians received ration books, which permitted them to buy limited amounts of essential food items like meat, cheese, sugar, and fats.

As we reflect on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we will delve into the home front culture that many experienced during World War II and the gradual return to “normal” life. View rationing cards, wartime recipes, learn what dining out was like, entertainment options and more.