A nation-wide celebration is set to take place on May 8 as pubs and bars across England and Wales stay open late to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, allowing people to come together and pay tribute to those who served their country during World War Two.
The government has confirmed that pubs and bars in England and Wales will be able to stay open until 01:00 BST on Thursday, May 8, to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. ‘This extension of licensing hours is a nod to the celebrations that have taken place on this day in previous years.’
A Tribute to the Wartime Generation
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has expressed his desire for the whole country to ‘come together’ and remember the sacrifices made by those who served their country during World War Two. ‘The longer opening hours at pubs will provide an opportunity for people to join in these celebrations, raise a glass, and pay tribute to the men and women who played a crucial role in securing peace and freedom.’
A Boost for the Hospitality Sector
The hospitality industry has welcomed this decision, seeing it as a much-needed boost during challenging times. Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, noted that allowing businesses to extend their trading hours on VE Day offers ‘a much-needed boost while paying tribute to our shared history.’
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, described pubs as ‘the nation’s second home’ and the ‘perfect place for communities to gather and raise a glass to all of those who made huge sacrifices for our freedom.’
Commemorations Ahead
This year’s VE Day commemorations will begin on the Early May Bank Holiday, with a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace and an RAF flypast over London. On May 8, there will be a service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey followed by a live concert from Horse Guards Parade, which is expected to attract more than 10,000 members of the public.
VE Day commemorates the formal acceptance of Germany's surrender on May 8, 1945.
The day marked the end of World War II in Europe.
Celebrations were held across Britain and other Allied nations to mark the occasion.
The first VE Day was celebrated with street parties, parades, and jubilant crowds.
Today, VE Day is remembered as a symbol of hope and resilience during times of conflict.
A Celebration for All
The events leading up to VE Day have been designed to bring people together and celebrate the sacrifices made during World War Two. With pubs staying open late, communities will have the opportunity to gather, raise a glass, and pay tribute to those who served their country. The BBC will broadcast these events live on BBC One, ensuring that everyone can be a part of this momentous occasion.
VE Day, May 8, 1945, marked the end of World War II in Europe.
The Allied forces, led by Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt, defeated Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler's leadership.
German forces surrendered unconditionally to the Allies, bringing an end to six years of conflict.
VE Day was celebrated across Europe with parades, street parties, and jubilant crowds.
The day marked a significant turning point in history, paving the way for the post-war era and the formation of the United Nations.
