VE Day 80th Anniversary in Bucks

On Thursday 8th May 2025 there will the lighting of Beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace at 9.30pm, the raising of a unique VE Day flag at 9am and parties of celebration throughout the day in the streets, gardens at home, churches, villages, town halls, pubs, clubs, hotels and all manner of locations throughout Buckinghamshire.

The History

Victory in Europe (VE) Day, celebrated on May 8, 1945, marked the official end of World War II in Europe. After nearly six years of devastating conflict, Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allied forces on May 7, with the news breaking across Europe and North America the following day. This historic event was met with widespread celebrations, as people flooded the streets in cities such as London, Paris, and New York, cheering, waving flags, and embracing the long-awaited peace. In London, Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the crowds, while King George VI made a radio broadcast to the nation, acknowledging the sacrifices made during the war.

Despite the overwhelming joy, VE Day was also a time for reflection and mourning, as millions had lost their lives, and many countries faced widespread destruction. The war in the Pacific continued, with Japan not surrendering until August 15, 1945 (VJ Day), extending the suffering for many. For nations like the Soviet Union and those under Nazi occupation, the road to recovery was long and challenging. While VE Day symbolized the triumph of democracy over fascism, it also marked the beginning of a new era, with tensions between the Soviet Union and Western Allies eventually leading to the Cold War.