The UK government has revealed plans for a special four-day celebration to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, marking the end of World War II in Europe.
Victory in Europe Day, observed annually on May 8, commemorates the Allies’ formal acceptance of Germany’s surrender in 1945. This year’s anniversary holds particular significance as it marks eight decades since the conclusion of the devastating conflict.
Brendan Cox, co-founder of the Together Coalition, which is organizing the VEDay80 community campaign, emphasized the importance of the upcoming celebrations as an opportunity for the UK public to unite and reflect on shared values. He added that the events would serve as a chance to strengthen community bonds, encouraging individuals to connect with neighbors and friends during the festivities.
The commemorative events are set to begin on Monday, May 5, 2025, and will include a significant tribute at the Cenotaph memorial in Whitehall, London, where the Union Jack will be draped for the first time since the monument was unveiled in 1920. This solemn gesture will honor the nearly 70,000 British civilians and 384,000 soldiers who lost their lives during the war.
Additionally, a military procession will move from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, with King Charles III, other senior members of the Royal Family, and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expected to participate. The procession will be followed by a flypast featuring current and historic military aircraft, including the Red Arrows.
Throughout the country, street parties are anticipated to evoke the spirit of those held when British troops returned home from the front lines in 1945. These community gatherings will serve as a fitting tribute to the generation that endured the war.
Key events planned for the anniversary include a celebration aboard HMS Belfast, the iconic warship moored between Tower Bridge and London Bridge. HMS Belfast, which fired some of the opening shots on D-Day in 1944, is considered the most significant surviving WWII warship.
On May 6, a special display of Ceramic Poppies, loaned from the Imperial War Museum’s collection, will be set up at the Tower of London. This display, though contained within the Tower’s walls, will feature a portion visible to the public. Tom Piper, the project’s curator, explained that the installation will provide a space for reflection on the far-reaching impact of the war, not just on military personnel but on civilians throughout the UK.
The following day, May 7, will see the Parliament Choir hosting an anniversary concert at Westminster Hall to mark the announcement of Germany’s surrender on May 7, 1945.
The main commemoration will take place on VE Day itself, May 8, with a concert at Horse Guards Parade featuring performances from notable stage and screen stars, as well as military musicians. The event will celebrate the legacy of the Second World War and the victory that shaped the future of Europe. A memorial service is also planned for Westminster Abbey.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy expressed her belief that this anniversary presents a unique opportunity for communities to come together and honor the sacrifices of the wartime generation. “By taking part in these significant commemorations, people across society will be able to hear our veterans’ stories firsthand, reflect, and ensure that their stories of sacrifice and service are remembered for generations to come,” she said.
This year’s celebrations offer a chance for the nation to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war and to ensure that the stories of those who served are preserved for future generations.
