Spectacular Flypast and Unforgettable Concert to Mark 80th Anniversary of VE Day
A grand four-day celebration is set to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, featuring a flypast, a concert, and a service at Westminster Abbey. The UK government has confirmed that the events will take place from Bank Holiday Monday, 5 May, to 8 May, honoring the end of World War Two in Europe.
As the number of surviving World War Two veterans continues to decline, this will be one of the final large-scale commemorations attended by those who served. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the importance of the occasion, stating that it will allow people across society to hear veterans’ stories firsthand, reflect on their sacrifices for 80th Anniversary of VE Day , and remember the values they fought to uphold.
A Nation Remembers
Ruth Bourne, a 98-year-old veteran who served at the code-breaking headquarters in Bletchley Park, will participate in the commemorations. Reflecting on the original VE Day celebrations on 8 May 1945, she recalled the euphoric atmosphere: “There was an electric buzz among everyone, and eventually, the royals came out and waved. We cheered like crazy, waving whatever we had on us. People climbed lampposts, lit bonfires in Hyde Park, and sang songs together. Not many went to bed that night.”
Defence Secretary John Healey also highlighted the significance of remembering the sacrifices made by the wartime generation, stating 80th Anniversary of VE Day, “The freedoms we enjoy today were defended by our remarkable Second World War generation. Our duty now is to safeguard the British values they fought so hard to uphold.”
The Royal British Legion is actively encouraging public participation, with spokesperson Tara Knights announcing plans for educational and community engagement programs. Arts Council England will also support local commemorative events across the country.
Major Events Planned
While it remains unclear which international dignitaries will attend, the commemorations are expected to be significant. In comparison, the 80th Anniversary of VE Day last year saw world leaders, including US President Joe Biden, King Charles III, and French President Emmanuel Macron, gather in Normandy.
The 75th VE Day anniversary in 2020 was disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, but this year’s commemorations promise a full schedule of events:
- 5 May: A military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, followed by a spectacular flypast featuring both modern and historical military aircraft, including the Red Arrows. The Cenotaph on Whitehall will be draped in Union Jacks in honor of those who lost their lives during the war. Celebrations will also take place on HMS Belfast and through street parties nationwide.
- 6 May: The Tower of London will feature a special installation of ceramic poppies, while historic landmarks across the UK will be illuminated in tribute.
- 7 May: Westminster Hall at the Palace of Westminster will host a commemorative concert.
- 8 May: A solemn service will be held at Westminster Abbey, followed by a grand concert at Horse Guards Parade, welcoming 10,000 members of the public.
Later in the year, on 15 August, the Royal British Legion will lead a service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to mark Victory in Japan (VJ) Day, which commemorates the end of the war in the Pacific.
With a packed schedule of events, the 80th Anniversary of VE Day will be a moment for the nation to reflect, celebrate, and honor those who fought for freedom eight decades ago.
