COVENTRY will come together his weekend to mark the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz.
Across the weekend from Friday (November 14) to Sunday (November 16), residents, visitors and community groups will gather to remember the hundreds of lives lost, honour the courage shown by ordinary citizens, and celebrate Coventry’s enduring message of peace and reconciliation.
Coun Abdul Khan, Deputy Leader of Coventry City Council and Cabinet Member for Events, said: “Eighty-five years on, the memory of the Coventry Blitz still resonates deeply within our city.
“This anniversary is not only a time to honour the lives lost, but also to reflect on the spirit of resilience and to acknowledge the strength of the city.
“The weekend of remembrance invites us all to look back with gratitude and forward with hope. I encourage you all to take a look at what’s on offer across the city as we remember the fateful night of 1940.”
The commemoration highlights include a Civic Service and Vigil at Coventry Cathedral, starting at 5.30pm on Friday, and Blitz tour of St Mary’s Guidhall at 11am on Friday.
Second World War costumed interpreters will perform throughout the weekend at 11am-4pm each day, and crafts, film showings and more will take place at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum from 10am on Saturday.
The Great Blitz Build will take place on Saturday and Sunday in Broadgate.
The events also form part of the annual Coventry Peace Festival, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a place of peace, hope and unity.
Many of the activities being held over the weekend are free, including the Great Blitz Build, an opportunity to take part in building a 20ft high structure resembling the Cathedral Ruins.
Visit www.coventry.gov.uk/CoventryRemembers for full details of the programme, including times and locations.
