Why do we celebrate VE Day?
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The history of VE Day – and how it is celebrated
- VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, marks the day where fighting against Nazi Germany ended during World War II on May 8, 1945.
- Celebrations on the day in 1945 included street parties, church services, and a royal family appearance at Buckingham Palace, with then-19-year-old future Queen Elizabeth II joining the public celebrations.
- In honour of how VE Day was first celebrated in 1945, modern commemorations typically also involve street parties, church services, a military procession towards Buckingham Palace, and a flyover from the Royal Air Force.
- This year marks the 80th anniversary, the first major VE Day anniversary since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Today's events include a two-minute silence, a Royal Albert Hall concert, a Westminster Abbey service, and a concert at Horse Guards Parade.