London History Day is an annual celebration in London that takes place on 31 May, the day that Big Ben first started keeping time.[1]

London History Day
GenreCultural events, special activities and exhibitions.
FrequencyAnnually
Location(s)London, United Kingdom
Websitehistoricengland.org.uk/get-involved/protect/keep-it-london/london-history-day

History

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In May 2016 Historic England launched an online poll through YouGov asking the public to choose the most relevant date to celebrate London's history. 24% of people chose the day that Big Ben first kept time in 1859.[2] The first London History Day took place on 31 May 2017.[3] Over 40 historic and cultural institutions hosted special events or highlighted rare objects in their collection.[4]

2020

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The fourth London History Day took place during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Historic England and the Museum of London created a booklet to help families celebrate the day without leaving their homes. London residents were encouraged to celebrate from home by dressing up as a well-known person in London history using items they could find in their homes.[5]

References

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  1. ^ "London History Day". Historic England. 2017-05-31. Retrieved 2017-10-18.
  2. ^ "London History Day Announced After Public Vote as Part of New Campaign to #KeepItLondon". Historic England. 2016-06-17. Retrieved 2017-10-18.
  3. ^ "London History Day: What to do and where to celebrate | London Evening Standard". Standard.co.uk. 2017-05-31. Retrieved 2017-10-18.
  4. ^ "Celebrate London History Day | London City Hall". London.gov.uk. 2017-05-31. Retrieved 2017-10-18.
  5. ^ "London Heroes". Historic England. 2020. Retrieved 2021-4-30.