This year marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, commemorated on May 8, 2025. This significant occasion celebrates the end of World War II, following the surrender of Nazi Germany. With the approach of this milestone, public figures, historians, and organizations are urging communities to honor the surviving veterans who sacrificed so much for freedom.
To kick off the countdown to VE Day, actor Ross Kemp and Olympic gold medalist Dame Kelly Holmes visited Hermitage Primary School in Tower Hamlets, east London. During their visit, they engaged with students, sharing food and discussing the importance of the victory against fascism.
Kemp emphasized, "VE Day marks a major moment in our history—when Britain helped defeat the forces of fascism and protect our democracy. Taking part is an opportunity for us all to honor those who sacrificed so much, to reconnect with our neighbors and communities, and to reflect on the values underpinning our victory. They matter as much today as they did then. This might be our last chance to thank the surviving veterans—so we should celebrate them in style.”
Dame Kelly Holmes joined the conversation, reinforcing the bond these celebrations create among citizens. She remarked, "Moments like this matter, they bring us together as a country and remind us of the freedoms we sometimes take for granted. They also give us the opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to the victory from the UK and across the Commonwealth.”
Community celebrations for VE Day will be spearheaded by the Together Coalition, which includes businesses and individuals working on the UK government's national program commemoratively aimed at both VE Day on May 8 and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on August 15. The agendas for these events reflect the joy of 1945, aiming to unite communities through shared remembrance.
This year's festivities will kick off with the Great British Food Festival on May 5th, inviting people to organize street parties, picnics, and barbecues nationwide on the bank holiday Monday. Local councils have begun inviting residents interested in hosting street parties to apply for necessary permits, facilitating communal gatherings across the country—a vibrant reminder of the impromptu street celebrations observed 80 years ago.
A notable educational initiative accompanying the commemorations is the VE Day Schools Challenge, co-led by the Together Coalition and the Royal British Legion. The project encourages schools to teach children about the significance of VE Day, ensuring the history and lessons of this pivotal day are not forgotten.
Reflecting on the inherent significance of VE Day, residents are being encouraged to engage meaningfully with the commemorative efforts. Kemp's call to action reverberates with urgency, reminding citizens of their duty to pay homage to veterans: “This might be our last chance to thank the surviving veterans.”
VE Day commemorations are not just events; they are opportunities for reflection, togetherness, and gratitude. The approach is filled with hope for connection across generations, emphasizing shared values of democracy and freedom.
On May 8, communities will come together to raise VE Day flags at 9 am, marking the start of festivities. The day will be punctuated by street parties, garden picnics, and gatherings ranging from town halls to local pubs—actions echoing the jubilant expression of joy felt at the war's end.
Seventy-eight years have passed since the end of World War II, but the lessons from this time resonate today more than ever. Beyond the celebratory atmosphere, these commemorations carry the weight of remembrance, reflecting on the values of peace and unity forged through sacrifice.
Bruno Peek CVO OBEOPR, Pageantmaster for VE Day 80, is urging local councils and communities to seize the moment. “Together, we must turn this occasion of unity and remembrance for every participant,” he explained, calling for enthusiastic participation from all sectors of society.
VE Day 80 will serve as both tribute and celebration—a reaffirmation of freedom won through sacrifice. Britons across the nation are encouraged to join this historic event, whether through local get-togethers, educational projects, or personal reflections. It’s not merely about celebrating the past, but also about fostering unity and appreciation for the values preserved by those who came before us.