As the 80th anniversary of VE Day approaches, King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to host a grand tea party at Buckingham Palace, commemorating the momentous occasion that marked the end of World War II in Europe. This celebration will honor the brave veterans who served during the war and is part of a larger series of events planned for May 5, 2025.
The royal couple will also be present on the Palace balcony to witness a spectacular flypast featuring the Red Arrows and historic World War II aircraft. The national commemorations kick off with a military procession that will see 1,300 members of the armed forces marching from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace.
According to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the procession will commence at noon, coinciding with the chimes of Big Ben, which will signal the recitation of Winston Churchill's iconic VE Day speech. This year’s events are particularly poignant, as they represent one of the last major anniversaries that will include a significant number of World War II veterans.
During the procession, Alan Kennett, a 100-year-old veteran who served in the Normandy campaign, will be honored in a special moment. A young person will pass the Commonwealth War Graves Commission's Torch for Peace to him, symbolizing the transition of memories and stories of sacrifice from one generation to the next. Reflecting on the significance of the day, Kennett shared, "I remember Battle of Britain pilot Johnnie Johnson bursting in and shouting 'the war is over.' A big party soon followed, filled with lots of drinking and celebrating the news. The 80th anniversary of VE Day brings back so many memories, and it will be such a privilege to be there with everyone."
The military procession will feature various units, including the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery. They will march past the Cenotaph and through Admiralty Arch before proceeding up The Mall to Buckingham Palace, where the royal family will be watching alongside Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and other dignitaries.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the importance of these commemorations, stating, "This is one of the last chances we have to say thank you to this generation of heroes and it is right that we do just that." The celebrations will also encourage communities across the UK to host street parties, picnics, and gatherings as part of the Great British Food Festival.
On May 6, the Tower of London will feature an installation of ceramic poppies, and historic landmarks will be illuminated in honor of the veterans. The following day, a concert will take place in Westminster Hall, featuring readings and performances from artists such as Samantha Barks and Toploader, culminating in a nostalgic revival of the BBC wartime comedy, Dad's Army.
As the week progresses, the main commemorative service will occur on May 8 at Westminster Abbey, followed by a concert at Horse Guards Parade. This concert will serve as a tribute to the sacrifices made during the war and will include performances from various artists.
The public is encouraged to line The Mall to watch the military procession and flypast, with the Defence Secretary urging citizens to remember the remarkable generation that defended the freedoms enjoyed today. The planned events are expected to draw thousands of spectators, creating a vibrant atmosphere of remembrance and celebration.
Local MP for Telford, Shaun Davies, is also urging residents to share their personal stories and memories from VE Day and the final days of World War II. He recognizes the dwindling number of individuals who lived through that era and is calling for the preservation of these vital first-hand accounts. He stated, "As time goes on, the chance to hear from those who lived through the Second World War becomes increasingly rare. It is up to us to preserve their stories and ensure the legacy of those who sacrificed so much is remembered for generations to come."
Davies is inviting residents to submit their experiences, which will be shared on his website and social media to educate future generations about the history and significance of VE Day.
The VE Day 80 celebrations promise to be a heartfelt tribute to those who fought for peace and freedom, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. The events scheduled for May 5 through May 8 will not only honor the past but also foster a sense of community and collective remembrance among the citizens of the UK.
