The UK government has confirmed a four-day celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, with events planned from May 5 to May 8, 2025. According to Bristol Live, the extended bank holiday will feature military processions, concerts, services, and street parties to commemorate the end of World War II in Europe.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated that the anniversary provides an opportunity for communities to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war, while also celebrating the peace that followed. The main national event will be a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace on May 5, kicking off the bank holiday festivities.
A Nationwide Commemoration
Throughout the four-day period, major cities, towns, and villages across the UK will host public gatherings, commemorative displays, and historic reenactments. The government has confirmed a series of official events designed to honor the contributions of war veterans, educate the public on the significance of VE Day, and encourage national unity.
A key feature of the commemoration will be the 30,000-ceramic poppy installation at the Tower of London, symbolizing locations bombed during the Blitz. Additionally, the Union flag will be displayed at the Cenotaph for the first time since the memorial was unveiled in 1920. Other planned activities include vintage military vehicle parades, themed exhibitions, and special museum displays recounting the events of 1945.
Concerts, Services, and Street Celebrations
Music and public celebrations will play a significant role in the VE Day 80th anniversary events. A commemorative concert in Westminster Hall on May 7 will honor the original 1945 VE Day announcement, featuring performances from military bands, orchestras, and contemporary artists. On May 8, a 10,000-person concert at Horse Guards Parade will take place, marking the exact moment when the end of the war in Europe was declared.
Street parties will also be a central part of the celebrations. Organizers have encouraged local communities to take part by holding their own events in streets, town halls, community centers, and public parks. The Together Coalition, which is behind the VEDay80 campaign, has called on people to host barbecues, afternoon teas, and themed gatherings to bring neighbors together.
Bruno Peek, pageant master of the commemoration, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating:
“We encourage everyone to raise the VE Day flag at 9am, gather in streets, gardens, town halls, clubs, and pubs. Let this be a day of joy, reflection, and celebration.”
Honoring the End of the War in the Far East
Following the VE Day celebrations in May, the government has also announced plans to commemorate Victory in Japan (VJ) Day on August 15, 2025. This event will mark the official end of World War II, recognizing the sacrifices made by British and Allied forces in the Pacific campaign.
A memorial service at the National Memorial Arboretum will be held in partnership with the Royal British Legion, ensuring that the contributions of those who served in the Far East are remembered. Educational initiatives and museum exhibitions will also highlight the stories of veterans who fought in Japan, Burma, and across the Pacific.
