Britain is commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day this week, beginning on May 5, 2025, with a series of events honoring the end of World War II in Europe and those who served and sacrificed during the conflict. The official surrender of Nazi Germany took place on May 8, 1945, marking a significant turning point in global history.
London's commemorations kicked off on Monday, May 5, 2025, with the iconic Big Ben striking at midday, accompanied by extracts from wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill's VE Day speech resonating throughout the capital. The opening ceremony featured actor Timothy Spall reciting Churchill's famous words, "My dear friends, this is your hour. This is not victory of a party or of any class. It's a victory of the Great British nation as a whole," echoing the sentiments of unity and resilience that defined the era.
A grand military parade followed, with over 1,300 members of the United Kingdom's armed forces marching from Parliament to Buckingham Palace. The parade was attended by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other senior royals, including the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, who watched the events unfold from the balcony of Buckingham Palace. The atmosphere was buoyed by the Royal Air Force's Red Arrows display team, which performed a spectacular flypast, leaving trails of red, white, and blue smoke in the sky.
King Charles donned a Naval No.1 uniform, deliberately choosing to forgo medals, mirroring the attire of his grandfather, King George VI, during the original VE Day celebrations in 1945. Queen Camilla complemented the occasion with a sapphire blue dress adorned with a brooch from the 12th Royal Lancers, honoring her late father's regiment.
As part of the commemorations, 30,000 ceramic poppies are set to be installed at the Tower of London on May 6, 2025, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives lost during the conflict. The poppies will be displayed until Armistice Day on November 11, 2025, reflecting the ongoing impact of war on society.
On VE Day itself, May 8, 2025, the nation will observe a national two-minute silence at midday, followed by a service at Westminster Abbey attended by the King and Queen. A large-scale concert will be held at Horse Guards Palace, culminating in the lighting of 2,500 beacons across the UK.
This year's commemorative events come amid renewed tensions within the royal family. Just days prior, Prince Harry disclosed that he no longer speaks to his father, King Charles, and expressed uncertainty about returning to the UK after losing a court case regarding his security arrangements. This revelation has cast a shadow over the otherwise celebratory atmosphere of the VE Day commemorations.
Among the veterans attending the celebrations was 101-year-old Alfred Littlefield, who expressed pride in Prince George's interest in the history of the war. Littlefield's daughter shared that the young prince had inquired about her father's age during his service, which brought joy to the veteran. "I'm very proud," Littlefield remarked, highlighting the connection between generations.
Joy Trew, a veteran who served in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force, shared a touching moment when King Charles personally ensured she was warm during the parade by tucking her blanket into her wheelchair. "He bent down and tucked me in," she recounted, illustrating the King's attentiveness to the veterans present.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined the festivities by hosting a VE Day street party at Downing Street, where he served tea and cakes to guests, including veterans. Starmer emphasized the importance of honoring those who fought for freedom, stating, "The whole nation is inspired by the selfless dedication of your example. This week, the country will show you just how thankful we all are." His words resonated with the sentiments shared across the nation as communities came together to celebrate.
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, a VE Day street party organized by the Bengali Association in East London united war survivors, refugees, and local families. Participants enjoyed 1940s music, dancing, and a variety of foods, fostering a sense of togetherness reminiscent of the wartime spirit.
The flypast featured a range of aircraft, including one of only two airworthy Lancaster bombers left in the world, alongside the modern Airbus A400M Atlas and C-17 Globemaster. The Red Arrows, renowned for their aerial displays, provided a colorful finale to the commemorative events, showcasing the UK's rich military heritage.
As the day progressed, the Cenotaph, a significant war memorial in Whitehall, was draped in a large Union flag for the first time since its unveiling in 1920, symbolizing the nation's gratitude to its veterans. The sight of the flag, combined with the presence of the royal family and veterans, created a powerful atmosphere of remembrance and celebration.
Reflecting on the significance of VE Day, many attendees shared personal stories of their experiences during the war. Eileen Massett, 93, recalled her evacuation from East London to Norfolk as a child, expressing her memories of the challenges faced during that tumultuous time. Her story echoed the sentiments of many who lived through the war, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made for peace.
As the week of commemorations continues, the royal family is expected to participate in various engagements, further honoring the legacy of those who served during World War II. The events are not only a tribute to the past but also a celebration of the enduring spirit of resilience and unity that defines the British people.
With the 80th anniversary of VE Day serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom, the nation comes together to reflect on its history while looking forward to a future of peace and solidarity.
