As the United Kingdom prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), a series of events are set to take place across the country, celebrating the end of World War II in Europe. This year, May 8, 2025, holds special significance as it commemorates the day the Allies accepted Germany's surrender in 1945. Communities will come together to honor the sacrifices made by servicemen and women, with festivities that promise to evoke nostalgia and gratitude.
One of the highlights of the VE Day celebrations will be a grand military procession in London, featuring Ukrainian troops alongside around 1,000 UK service personnel. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed that this event will symbolize global support for Ukraine in its ongoing struggle against Russia's invasion. Ukrainian representatives participating in the procession are part of Operation Interflex, the UK’s training program for Ukrainian recruits, which has trained over 54,000 personnel since its inception in 2022. Major Pavlo, an officer in the Ukrainian marching contingent, expressed the significance of their participation, stating, "The participation of Ukrainian service personnel in the VE Day parade in London symbolizes our strength, courage and resilience. We are grateful to our allies for their support and solidarity."
On the same day, the royal family will host a tea party for Second World War veterans at Buckingham Palace, and historic landmarks across the UK will be illuminated in a show of remembrance. The celebrations will commence with a military parade at 12 PM, where members of the armed forces will march through Parliament Square, culminating in a flypast featuring the Red Arrows and 23 military aircraft.
In Norfolk, local councils are organizing various events to celebrate VE Day. The borough council of King's Lynn will host a street party on May 5, featuring live music and activities for families. On May 8, classic wartime vehicles will be displayed, and children can engage in activities such as building spitfire kits. The festivities will continue with a performance by Greyfriars School and the Marham Military Wives Choir.
Meanwhile, the Maidshead Hotel in Norwich will offer a street party-themed afternoon tea from May 5 to 11, serving traditional 1940s treats like condensed milk cake and cheese scones. Additionally, pubs across England and Wales will extend their opening hours by two hours on May 8, allowing patrons to raise a glass in honor of the occasion.
In Thetford, a party on Melford Common is set for May 10, where attendees are encouraged to don 1940s attire. The event will feature performances from local musicians and wartime-themed entertainment, including funfair rides and activities for children. This event is part of the town council's 80 Stories project, which aims to celebrate the community's heritage.
Biggin Hill Airport in Bromley, which played a crucial role during the war, will also host celebrations. On May 5, a sold-out lunch event will feature the Biggin Hill Concert Band performing wartime music. The airport will hold a flagpole service on May 8, followed by a family-friendly celebration on May 10, complete with vintage vehicle displays and a street party.
Across the UK, various events are scheduled to take place. On May 3, Bletchley Park will host code-breaking challenges and a street party. Stirling Castle will feature big band music on May 3, while Cardiff Castle will hold the largest VE Day party in Wales on May 5, expecting up to 5,000 attendees.
The celebrations will include a National Service of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey on May 8, where a two-minute silence will be observed at noon. Town criers will proclaim VE Day in communities across the nation, and churches will ring their bells in remembrance.
As part of the commemoration, a VE Day Anniversary Concert will be held at the Palace of Westminster on May 7, featuring performances from the Parliament Choir. Additionally, historic buildings such as Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London will be illuminated on May 6.
In Worsbrough, community celebrations will kick off on May 5, centered around local clubs that support service charities. Coun Jake Lodge expressed his delight at the community coming together to recognize the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.
As the UK gears up for these remarkable commemorations, it is a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration of the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom. The events planned across the country serve as a reminder of the unity that was forged during a challenging time in history and the importance of standing together in the face of adversity.
