Pubs across the UK will be allowed to stay open until 1am on May 8, 2025, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the day marking the end of the Second World War in Europe. This decision, announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, aims to provide an opportunity for communities to come together and honor the sacrifices made by the wartime generation.
The government has relaxed pub licensing hours for this significant occasion, allowing venues that typically close at 11pm to serve for two additional hours, a move that has been welcomed by the hospitality industry. Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, emphasized the importance of honoring those who served, stating, “VE Day is not only a moment of remembrance, but also an opportunity for communities to come together.”
VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, is celebrated annually on May 8, commemorating the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany to Allied forces in 1945. This year’s celebrations will mark eight decades since that historic moment, with events planned across the country starting from the May bank holiday on May 5.
The commemorations will kick off with a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, where the Cenotaph will be adorned with Union flags. An RAF flypast over London is also scheduled to take place, setting the stage for the nationwide festivities that will culminate in a large celebration at Horse Guards Parade on May 8.
More than 10,000 members of the public are expected to attend this televised event, which will feature performances from notable stars of stage and screen. The celebrations aim to foster a sense of community and gratitude towards those who fought for freedom during the war.
Sir Keir Starmer remarked, “As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the whole country should come together to remember the incredible sacrifices made by the wartime generation and to celebrate the peace and freedom they secured for us all.” He highlighted that extending pub hours will allow people to join in the celebrations and raise a glass to honor all those who served their country.
The hospitality sector has faced numerous challenges in recent years, particularly due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising costs from increased National Insurance contributions. Kill noted that the extension of trading hours during such a significant celebration offers a much-needed boost to the industry.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UK Hospitality, expressed her support for the licensing extension, stating that many people will gather in their local pubs to mark this special occasion. She stated, “I am pleased the government is extending licensing hours, which will allow pubs to host even more commemorative events that honor our veterans and heroes.”
The decision to allow extended hours is part of a broader government strategy to recognize occasions of “exceptional national significance,” a practice that has previously been applied during major royal celebrations and significant sporting events, such as the Euro 2024 final.
In addition to the events in London, various local celebrations are expected to take place across the UK, bringing communities together to reflect on the past and celebrate the present. The VE Day tea party at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is set to be one of the highlights, bringing together the largest gathering of Second World War veterans.
In a statement regarding the overall commemorative plans, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman noted, “We are committed to commemorating these nationally important occasions appropriately, which is why we have announced more than £10 million for events to mark them.”
The 80th anniversary of VE Day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during the Second World War, and the upcoming celebrations provide an opportunity for the nation to honor their legacy. As communities prepare to raise a toast to veterans, the extended pub hours will facilitate gatherings that celebrate the enduring spirit of resilience and unity.
As the date approaches, anticipation builds for the series of events designed to pay tribute to those who fought for freedom, ensuring that their sacrifices are not forgotten. The 80th anniversary of VE Day promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together people from all walks of life to reflect, remember, and celebrate.
