In 2025, the United Kingdom will honor the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with four days of celebrations from May 5 to May 8. These events will include a military parade, planes flying overhead, concerts, and a special service at Westminster Abbey.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy mentioned that on this important day, people will get a chance to hear stories from veterans to remember and reflect on their contributions.
Will There Be a New Bank Holiday?
Despite the special nature of this anniversary, the government has confirmed that there will be no new bank holiday. According to reports from NiftyStat, this decision was made in November 2024. A spokesperson explained that the celebrations will take place along with the existing Early May Bank Holiday on May 5.
The government plans to spend over £10 million on these celebrations. An official said, while this anniversary is important, an extra day off could disrupt businesses and public services. So, the holiday schedule will stay the same, and the Early May Bank Holiday will be the main day for VE Day events.
The Four Days of VE Day Celebrations
The celebrations will be as follows:
May 5: A parade will march down Whitehall, featuring military formations and a special flypast by RAF planes, including the famous Red Arrows. The Cenotaph and HMS Belfast will be decorated with Union Jacks, and there will be a street party.
May 6: A display of ceramic poppies will be at the Tower of London to honor those who died in the war, and famous buildings across the UK will light up at night.
May 7: There will be a Victory in Europe Day Anniversary Concert at Westminster Hall in the Palace of Westminster.
May 8: The final day includes a memorial service at Westminster Abbey, followed by a grand concert at Horse Guards Parade, expected to attract around 10,000 people.
No Extra Bank Holiday for VE Day Why80?
The government decided against having an extra bank holiday due to economic reasons. They believe an additional day off could hurt businesses and public services.
The 2025 bank holiday dates will be:
– Good Friday: April 18
– Easter Monday: April 21
– Early May Bank Holiday: May 5
– Spring Bank Holiday: May 26
– Summer Bank Holiday: August 25
– Christmas Day: December 25
– Boxing Day: December 26
These upcoming celebrations are expected to be grand, especially since the last time the UK celebrated VE Day, in 2020, was limited due to COVID-19. This year, many living veterans and groups like the Royal British Legion will be involved in the events, while promoting community participation.
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