VE 80 Day 8 May 2025

On 8 May 2025, we mark the historic 80th anniversary of VE Day, with the peoples, families and communities of our great nation coming together to unite and celebrate 80 years of peace since the end of World War II in Europe that so many millions gave the ultimate sacrifice to achieve.

VE Day 80 is not only a tribute to those who fought for the freedom we all enjoy today, but also a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that have defined our country ever since.

Everyone is encouraged to take part and gather in the streets, gardens, town and city halls, clubs and pubs, and at home too, and be part of this anniversary providing a day of joy, reflection, and celebration, as part of the Commonwealth’s 2.4 billion people, reaffirming our commitment to world peace, ensuring future generations understand and cherish its value.

At 9am Town Criers will undertake the VE Day Proclamation as the VE Day 80 flags are raised, and at 12noon, Pipers will play a unique tune especially written for the occasion entitled ‘Celebratum’ from the top of the UK’s four highest Peaks. At 6.30pm, Cathedrals and Churches will ring out in united celebration throughout the nation, and at 9.30pm over one thousand beacons and hundreds of Lamp Lights of Peace will shine throughout the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, with the flames from them all, representing the ‘light of peace’ that emerged from the dreadful darkness of war. Across the nation, people will be coming together from all walks of life - in city and town squares to quiet village greens, and all other manner of locations at this special and unique one moment in time and sing the great British Hymn ‘I Vow To Thee My Country’, standing side by side in gratitude, honouring the many sacrifices that secured our freedom.

“Together, we honour the past and celebrate a future built on unity, hope, love and peace".

The Brightwell will be open as usual on Thursday, and we will be observing the 2-minute silence at 12 noon.