The 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day on May 8, 2025, was commemorated across the United Kingdom with a series of national and local events honouring the end of World War II in Europe.

We were proud to take part in the celebrations to mark this special occasion, during the day we had members of our care team and clients and business neighbours call in to celebrate with us. Thanks to all our team who made it extra special by baking cakes and decorating the office. Julie definitely wins for the best dressed on the day!

National Commemorations

In London, a significant remembrance service took place at Westminster Abbey, attended by King Charles III, Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and 78 World War II veterans. The service featured a two-minute national silence and the lighting of a symbolic candle of peace by Alexander Churchill, the great-great-grandson of Winston Churchill. 

Community and Cultural Events

Communities nationwide organized street parties, concerts, and exhibitions reminiscent of the celebrations in 1945. The Tower of London featured a poignant display of 30,000 ceramic poppies, repurposed from the 2014 “Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red” installation, cascading from the White Tower to the Thames, symbolizing remembrance and resilience. 

International Observances

Across Europe, similar commemorations took place. Notably, Germany declared VE Day a public holiday in Berlin for the first time, with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier participating in ceremonies that acknowledged the historical significance and promoted a message of peace. 

The 80th anniversary of VE Day served as a profound reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II and reinforced the importance of preserving peace and democracy for future generations.