On May 8, 2025, the United Kingdom is celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), a momentous occasion commemorating the formal surrender of Nazi Germany and the end of World War II in Europe. Although the conflict with Japan continued until August 15, 1945, VE Day remains an iconic symbol of peace and victory for millions across the nation.
The celebrations kicked off earlier this week, beginning on May 5 with a grand procession through central London, featuring a military flypast and a vibrant street party on Downing Street. Four generations of the royal family, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Prince and Princess of Wales, made a balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace, waving to the jubilant crowds below.
Today, the festivities are in full swing. At 9 AM, special VE Day flags are being raised in various locations across the UK, marking the official start of the day’s events. As night falls, beacons and lamp lights symbolizing hope and remembrance will be lit at 9:30 PM, echoing the spirit of unity and reflection.
A collective act of thanksgiving will take place at 6:30 PM when churches and cathedrals across the nation ring their bells, reminiscent of the cryptic ringing that resonated across Britain on VE Day in 1945. This is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the peace that followed.
In the heart of London, Westminster Abbey will host a special service at noon, gathering dignitaries, veterans, and members of the public to honor those who served. Among the attendees will be Alexander Churchill, the great-great-grandson of Winston Churchill, who will light a candle of peace during the service. Additionally, the 10-year-old will hand out white roses to veterans seated in the nave, a touching gesture of gratitude.
The National Memorial Arboretum is also playing a key role in today’s commemorations. A private VE Day Tea Party for WWII veterans and their families is set to begin at 2 PM, followed by a Service of Commemoration at 4 PM, providing an opportunity for reflection on the sacrifices made by many during the tumultuous years of conflict.
At noon, a nationwide two-minute silence will be observed to remember and thank those who fought for freedom. This moment of reflection will also extend to radio stations, which will fall silent for two minutes, further emphasizing the significance of this anniversary.
Across the country, communities are coming together to celebrate VE Day with street parties reminiscent of those held in 1945. In Worthing, West Sussex, residents took to the streets, with many donning red, white, and blue attire to symbolize the occasion. The Adur and Worthing Council organized a range of events, including a street market party held on May 4, and a memorial service and beacon lighting ceremony scheduled for today.
Reflecting on the importance of this year’s VE Day, Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, expressed the need for national renewal. He noted that as fewer members of the generation that experienced the war are available to share their stories, it becomes crucial for current generations to honor their legacy. “We must come together as one country to honor those who fought for our freedom,” he said. Starmer emphasized the importance of sharing these experiences as a defining moment in the nation’s history.
He also recalled the stories of Stanley Fisher and Mervyn Kersch, two Jewish veterans of the Normandy landings who witnessed the horrors of the Bergen Belsen concentration camp. Their experiences serve as a powerful reminder that the victory in Europe was not solely a British triumph but also a defeat of tyranny and evil.
Colin Deverall, a 101-year-old veteran, shared his own story of remembrance. He met Starmer at Buckingham Palace on May 5, where he revealed that it was only six years ago that he expressed a desire to return to France to say goodbye to his comrades who did not make it back. Such stories highlight the silent burdens borne by many veterans, who often chose not to speak of their experiences for decades.
As the nation prepares for today’s events, the atmosphere is one of gratitude and reflection. Pubs and bars have been granted permission to stay open for an extra two hours to celebrate the anniversary, allowing communities to gather and raise their glasses in honor of the sacrifices made by the greatest generation.
The VE Day celebrations today serve not only as a commemoration of past victories but also as a reminder of the importance of unity and remembrance in contemporary society. As people gather in towns and cities across the UK, the hope is that the stories of those who served will continue to inspire future generations.
In Worthing, the street party on Heene Terrace captured the spirit of the day, with smiling faces and laughter echoing the joyous atmosphere of 80 years ago. The local council’s efforts to organize events reflect the community’s commitment to honoring the past while fostering a sense of togetherness today.
As the clock strikes noon, and the nation falls silent for two minutes, it will be a moment to remember the courage and sacrifices of those who fought for freedom. The legacy of VE Day is not only about celebrating victory but also about ensuring that the stories of those who lived through the war are passed down and remembered, keeping their spirit alive for generations to come.
Today, as the UK marks this significant anniversary, the message is clear: let us honor the heroes of 1945, share their stories, and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
