VE Day: 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe
Europe celebrates the 80th anniversary of VE Day
Last updated 8th May 2025
The nation is marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) today, celebrating 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.
Today, special VE Day flags will be raised across the country, beacons will be lit, services of remembrance will take place and local tea parties held.
A week of VE Day celebrations
The VE Day celebrations started on Monday, with a procession through central London, a military flypast, and a street party on Downing Street.
Four generations of the royal family, including the King and Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and their children made a balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace, waving to crowds below as the flypast took place.
What's happening to mark VE Day today?
Kicking off the celebrations, a special VE Day flag will be raised at 9am in various locations across the UK.
As night falls, beacons and lamp lights of peace will be lit at 9:30 PM, symbolising hope and remembrance.
At 6:30pm, churches and cathedrals nationwide will ring their bells as a collective act of thanksgiving, reminiscent of the cryptic ringing across Britain on VE Day in 1945.
Service at Westminster Abbey
In the heart of London, Westminster Abbey will host a special service at noon. This gathering aims to honour the sacrifices made during the war and celebrate the peace that followed.
Dignitaries, veterans, and members of the public will come together to reflect on the anniversary
Winston Churchill's great-great-grandson will light a candle of peace at the service.
10 year old Alexander Churchill will also hand out white roses to veterans sitting in the nave of Westminster Abbey.
Tea Party and commemoration Service at the National Memorial Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum will start the anniversary with a private VE Day Tea Party for WWII veterans and their families at 2pm.
Following this, a Service of Commemoration will take place at 4pm, offering a chance to pay homage to those who served and those who suffered in wartime.
Two minute silence
There will be a two minute silence at noon to remember and thank those who fought for our freedom.
Our radio stations will also fall silent for two minutes at midday to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
VE Day parties, pubs and celebrations
Many towns and villages are holding tea parties, a nod to the spirited street parties of 1945.
Pubs and bars have been granted permission to stay open for longer to mark the anniversary.
Venues in England and Wales which usually close at 11pm will be able to keep serving for an extra two hours to celebrate.