Victory in Europe Day

To mark the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, three days of celebrations will take place nationwide with London acting as a central hub for many of the festivities. On VE Day itself (May 8), a remembrance service will be held at The Cenotaph with a national two minute silence at 3pm, followed by 100 beacons being lit across the country as the evening draws in. On the Saturday (May 9) cathedrals across the country will be invited to ring out their bells, and a concert featuring an international line-up of singers and celebs will take place at Horse Guards Parade. Sunday (May 9) will see a thanksgiving service held at Westminster Abbey, plus a parade from the Abbey to Whitehall, past the balcony of HM Treasury where Winston Churchill made his historic appearance to the celebrating crowds. Look skywards during the afternoon to see current and historic aircraft from The Royal British Legion in flight. Various 1940s and war time themed exhibitions will also take place and local communities have also organised celebrations. See the event map for more details.