VE Day 2025: How to Watch Victory in Europe Day 80

VE Day 2025: How to Watch the 80th Anniversary

Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day, marks a defining moment in history — the end of World War II in Europe. In 2025, the UK will observe the 80th anniversary of this event with a full program of ceremonies, processions, and celebrations. This milestone honors the courage and sacrifice of those who fought and those who kept the home front strong.

Whether you’re joining street parties or watching from home, there are many ways to take part in the VE Day 2025 commemorations. The highlight is a grand military procession along The Mall in London, followed by an impressive flypast featuring modern and historic aircraft, including the famous Red Arrows. Alongside this, a star-studded concert at Horse Guards Parade will air live on BBC One, bringing stories and music that capture the spirit of the day.

Overview of VE Day 2025 Celebrations

As VE Day 2025 approaches, anticipation is building across the UK for a series of events that will honor 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe. This milestone is more than just a date; it’s a moment for the nation to pause, remember, and celebrate the courage of those who fought and the sacrifices made for peace. The program marries tradition with community spirit, inviting everyone—from families hosting street parties to millions tuning in from home—to come together in tribute. Here’s what you can expect from this important anniversary.

Significance of the 80th Anniversary

Reaching the 80th anniversary of VE Day holds deep meaning for the UK and the world. It marks eight decades since victory ended the devastation of war across Europe. This milestone encourages collective reflection on the cost of freedom and the bravery of those who lived through those times. With an estimated 70,000 surviving veterans, the 2025 commemorations place veterans and fallen heroes at the heart of the celebrations.

This year’s observance acknowledges the weight of history while highlighting the ongoing importance of remembrance. Special ceremonies, including services at Westminster Abbey and other historic venues, ensure the stories of sacrifice and hope remain vivid. Official events will not only honor military achievements but also recognize the resilience of communities who endured wartime challenges on the home front. It is a chance to connect past and present, reinforcing the values of peace and unity that VE Day represents.

National Events and Community Participation

VE Day 2025 offers a wide variety of events that reflect both national pride and local involvement, making it easy to join in whether you’re in London or a small town.

Some of the main draws include:

Military Procession and Flypast: The centerpiece is a grand military parade tracing a route from Parliament Square along Whitehall and The Mall, ending at the Queen Victoria Memorial. This procession features nearly 1,400 armed forces members, veterans, and youth volunteers. Following the parade, the skies will fill with historic and modern aircraft, including Spitfires, Lancasters, and the famous Red Arrows display team, symbolizing the continued strength of the Royal Air Force.
Ceremonial Beacon Lighting: At 9:30 pm on May 8, thousands of beacons will be lit across the UK, creating a network of glowing remembrance. This tradition connects communities and landscapes, symbolizing the enduring light of peace passed down through generations.
Ceramic Poppy Installation: Returning to the Tower of London are 30,000 ceramic poppies, echoing the powerful 2014 tribute. Each poppy represents a British or colonial life lost during the war, creating a poignant reminder of sacrifice.
Street Parties and Local Events: Across towns and villages, communities are organizing street parties, barbecues, and gatherings that mirror the joyous celebrations of 1945. Councils are supporting these grassroots events, encouraging people to come together with neighbors, share stories, and enjoy music and dance.
Cultural Celebrations: Beyond the commemorative events, concerts at venues like Horse Guards Parade, Westminster Hall, and the Royal Albert Hall will feature music from military bands, choirs, and top artists. These performances blend historical themes with contemporary expression, keeping the spirit of VE Day alive for all ages.

The scale and variety of the celebrations ensure that VE Day 2025 can be experienced in many ways—whether you’re lining The Mall, attending a local event, or watching online. This combination of formal ceremonies and community joy brings the story of victory and peace to life once more.

Watching the VE Day 80 Concert and Broadcasts

VE Day 2025 is shaping up to be a captivating tribute to 80 years of peace after the war in Europe. With a rich schedule of live events, concerts, and commemorative ceremonies, you won’t want to miss a moment. Whether you prefer traditional TV viewing or online streams, the various broadcasts make it easy to join the nation in honoring this landmark anniversary. Below, you’ll find detailed options on how to catch the key moments live and on demand across multiple platforms.

BBC Coverage and Special Programming

The BBC stands at the heart of VE Day 2025 broadcasts, offering a well-rounded and accessible schedule that spans from May 5 through May 8. Their programming dives into history, celebration, and remembrance, wrapped in thoughtful presentation.

May 5 kicks off with VE Day 80: The Nation Pays Tribute airing on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, running from 10:30 am to 2 pm. This live broadcast covers the grand military procession on The Mall and the following flypast. Presenter Sophie Raworth guides viewers through moments featuring more than 1,300 armed forces members, veterans, and youth participants. The flypast includes a stunning array of aircraft—classic WWII planes alongside Royal Air Force jets like the Red Arrows.
In the evenings of May 5 and May 8, audiences can experience VE Day 80: A Celebration to Remember. On May 8, from 8 pm to 10 pm, this live concert from Horse Guards Parade brings together star performances by artists such as Samantha Barks and John Newman, with choreography by Strictly Come Dancing professionals. The concert blends iconic wartime songs like “We’ll Meet Again” with personal stories from veterans and actors reenacting historic speeches, including Brian Cox as Winston Churchill.
Throughout the days, the BBC enhances the experience with specially curated programs including archival footage, documentaries, and wartime memorabilia showcases. Programs like Dad’s Army at the BBC and The Repair Shop‘s wartime editions help connect viewers to the era’s culture and resilience.
The BBC places strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusion. Many broadcasts include British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation and signed features, ensuring that the commemorations are open to all viewers.
Radio listeners can tune in to VE Day 80 – A Swinging Celebration on BBC Radio 2, featuring the BBC Big Band and Concert Orchestra playing hits from the 1940s, plus live coverage from Westminster Abbey and other significant locations.

Other Media Platforms and Online Streaming Options

While BBC’s coverage is comprehensive, there are alternative routes to stay connected with VE Day 2025 celebrations, fitting different viewing preferences and needs.

Sky News offers live coverage of the military flypast and procession on May 5, with programs hosted by Sarah-Jane Mee. Their broadcast includes reports from multiple vantage points along the flypast route, including Canada Gate, and detailed commentary on the event’s significance. You can watch on Sky TV or stream via the Sky News website and apps.
The UK Government and official VE Day 80 websites provide live streams and updates for the key events, including the ceremonial beacon lighting on May 8 and the military parade. These streams are free and accessible on numerous devices, making it easy to join the nation’s remembrance from anywhere.
Online platforms such as BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds archive the broadcasts for on-demand viewing and listening. This means you won’t miss performances or speeches, even if you can’t watch live.
Many local broadcasters and digital channels will carry highlights or special segments focused on community street parties, veteran interviews, and cultural programs, reflecting the national mood from coast to coast.

By tuning in through these channels, you’ll have seamless access to the full scope of the VE Day 80 commemorations. Join in as the nation remembers, celebrates, and honors the legacy of peace with every note of music and every march down The Mall.

What to Expect on VE Day 80: Key Highlights

VE Day 2025 promises a day filled with rich tradition, stirring ceremonies, and a vibrant atmosphere throughout London. Whether you’re planning to join the crowd in person or watch from afar, here’s a detailed look at the key highlights that capture the spirit of this momentous 80th anniversary.

The Procession Along The Mall and Viewing Areas

The grand military procession is the heart of the day’s events. Starting at 12:10 PM from Parliament Square, the route flows down Whitehall and then onto The Mall, culminating at the Queen Victoria Memorial near Buckingham Palace. This pathway is steeped in history and significance, linking iconic landmarks that have witnessed decades of British ceremony.

Route Details: Expect to see military units from the Household Division, mounted cavalry, military bands, and youth volunteers marching in formation. The procession showcases over 1,300 armed forces personnel, blending the honor of tradition with the energy of new generations.
Viewing Areas: Public access points line both sides of Whitehall and The Mall, offering prime spots to watch the procession. These areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with stewards managing crowd capacity to ensure safety. Once full, access will close and re-entry isn’t guaranteed.
Crowd Management: Organizers prioritize a smooth and secure experience with bag checks and restrictions on items like glass containers and drones. Early arrival is key to securing a place in the main viewing zones.
Accessibility: Special designated areas near Trafalgar Square provide flat surfaces, raised platforms, and hearing loops to support those with mobility or sensory needs. Assistance dogs are welcome, and stewards are available to help.

If you’re in London on VE Day 2025, lining The Mall offers an unforgettable view not only of the march but the entire day’s atmosphere—an open-air theatre of remembrance and celebration.

The Spectacular Flypast Featuring the Red Arrows and Others

The flypast is a visual spectacle that commands attention across London’s skyline. Scheduled to begin at approximately 1:45 PM, the formation includes 23 aircraft flying in precise order.

Aircraft Involved: The Red Arrows headline the display, trailing red, white, and blue smoke as they soar above Buckingham Palace. Alongside them, expect historic warbirds like the iconic Lancaster Bomber and Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Modern RAF fighters such as the Typhoon and F-35, together with the Voyager transport, P8 Poseidon, A400M Atlas, C-17 Globemaster, and the Rivet Joint intelligence plane, complete the formation.
Timing and Route: The flypast cuts through multiple zones of London’s airspace, visible to spectators gathered along The Mall and surrounding streets. The precise timing and synchronization create a breathtaking moment that links past and present air power.
Why It Matters: The flypast is more than a display of aviation skill; it is a moving tribute to the bravery of those who served in the air during World War II and beyond. The mix of historic and new aircraft symbolizes both remembrance and the ongoing strength of the RAF.

Much like a carefully choreographed dance in the sky, the flypast’s precision and scale draw thousands of eyes upward, sealing it as a crowning moment of VE Day 80.

Royal Family Involvement and Ceremonial Moments

The Royal Family plays a central role in VE Day 2025. Their participation links the nation’s history with its present, embodying continuity and respect.

Royal Participation: The King and Queen will attend a Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, joining veterans, dignitaries, and the public in solemn remembrance. The ceremony includes poignant hymns from the Abbey choir and the laying of wreaths at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior and the Innocent Victims’ Memorial.
Two-Minute Silence: At noon on May 8, a national two-minute silence will be observed across the UK. Royal Family members, government officials, and military units will all take part in this shared moment of reflection. It marks exactly 80 years since VE Day itself, honoring those who fought and those who never returned.
Other Ceremonial Highlights: The day features military honors, historic speeches, and moments of tribute that draw a line through history. The royal presence adds a dignified frame to these acts, underscoring their importance to the nation.

The involvement of the Royal Family transforms the day’s events from mere ceremony into a living connection with the legacy of VE Day, providing a focal point for public and personal remembrance alike.

Each of these elements—the procession, the flypast, and the royal ceremony—combine to shape a VE Day 2025 that respects the past while celebrating peace today. Whether you watch live in London or from home, these highlights offer a deep, shared experience echoing across 80 years of history.

Participating in Local VE Day 2025 Activities

VE Day 2025 is not only about grand national ceremonies and live broadcasts—it’s also a chance to connect with your community and create lasting memories. Across the UK, towns and villages will come alive with local celebrations, inviting everyone to take part regardless of age or background. Whether you’re organizing a block party or joining an evening event, these activities offer a meaningful way to honor 80 years of peace and the sacrifices behind it.

Organizing and Joining Street Parties

Street parties have long been a popular way to mark VE Day, and in 2025, this tradition continues with renewed enthusiasm. Hosting a street party is about more than just fun—it’s an opportunity to bring neighbours together and celebrate in a spirit of unity.

Here’s how to plan a successful and safe street party:

Get the Necessary Permits Early: Contact your local council to arrange any road closures or official permissions. Many councils are waiving usual fees for VE Day, especially on low-traffic streets, but advance notice by April is essential.
Choose a Theme and Decorations: Celebrating peace and remembrance can be reflected in bunting, flags, and decorations featuring red, white, and blue. Authentic wartime music playlists or classic songs from the era can set the mood.
Involve the Community: Invite neighbours of all ages to contribute—whether by bringing food, sharing stories, or helping with setup. Local schools, youth groups, and veterans’ organizations may also join in to add special touches.
Plan Simple Activities: Think of wartime games, vintage dress-up, or storytelling corners to engage children and adults alike. Remember that the focus is on joyful remembrance.
Prioritize Safety: Plan for waste disposal, clearly mark emergency exits, and have a first aid plan if needed. Consider accessibility so that everyone can comfortably participate.
Respect Licenses and Regulations: If selling food, alcohol, or hosting live entertainment, check if Temporary Event Notices are required to comply with licensing laws.

Local websites, groups, and the government’s VE Day 80 page list numerous events across the country, making it easy to join a nearby celebration if you prefer not to organize your own.

Lighting of Beacons and Evening Events

As daylight fades on May 8, communities across the UK will participate in a poignant nationwide beacon lighting beginning at 9:30 pm. This symbolic act links thousands of points of light—from city rooftops to rural hilltops—creating a visible network of remembrance.

The beacon lighting is a powerful moment of reflection, honoring those who fought and those who never returned. Beacons serve as a reminder that though times have changed, the light of freedom and peace continues to shine.

Alongside the beacon events, many towns will host evening concerts, memorial services, and gatherings. These occasions often blend solemn remembrance with celebration, featuring:

Musical Tributes: Bands, choirs, and solo performers playing wartime classics or pieces inspired by VE Day history.
Storytelling and Speeches: Local veterans, historians, or community leaders sharing memories and lessons from the war.
Candlelit Vigils: Quiet ceremonies offering space to reflect on the day’s significance.
Fireworks or Light Shows: In some areas, the celebrations culminate with visual displays that light up the night sky.

Evening events provide a calm yet stirring close to VE Day 2025, encouraging communities to pause, remember, and honor the legacy entrusted to new generations.

Together, local street parties and nationwide evening tributes create a rhythm for VE Day 2025 that balances joy, respect, and community spirit. They allow everyone, whether watching the procession live or joining neighbors on their street, to be part of a collective moment that celebrates peace and remembers the past.

Practical Tips for Viewing and Commemorating VE Day 2025

VE Day 2025 offers multiple ways to honor this significant anniversary, both in person and online. Whether you’re planning to be part of the bustling crowds in London or prefer to connect through your screen, preparing ahead ensures you experience the commemorations fully and safely. Below are some practical tips to guide you through attending live events and engaging with digital resources.

Helpful Guidelines for Attending Events in London

If you decide to witness the VE Day 80 military procession and flypast along The Mall, a little planning goes a long way to make your day smooth and memorable.

Plan Your Transport Early: London public transport will be busy, and some stations near Westminster and key event areas may face temporary closures or adjusted service. The best stations for accessing the viewing zones are Charing Cross, Green Park, Victoria, and Bond Street. All have step-free access, making arrival easier for everyone.
Arrive Ahead of Time: The events start mid-morning and run into the afternoon. To secure a good spot in one of the designated public viewing areas, arrive early, as access works on a first-come, first-served basis. Barriers and crowd control measures will open gradually, so patience pays off.
Security Checks Are In Place: For everyone’s safety, expect entry checks including bag searches. Avoid bringing prohibited items such as glass bottles, drones, barbecues, and large folding chairs. Keep your belongings minimal and easy to carry.
Accessible Viewing Locations: There are special areas designed for people with disabilities or mobility needs near Trafalgar Square. These zones feature flat ground, raised platforms, and hearing loops. Assistance dogs are welcome, and helpful stewards are on hand to support visitors.
Stay Hydrated and Prepared: Though refreshments will be available, it’s a good idea to bring a refillable water bottle and dress for the weather. The day can be long, so wearing comfortable shoes and sunscreen is wise.
Follow Instructions From Officials: The event is tightly organized, so listening to stewards and police ensures crowd safety and helps everything run smoothly.

Viewing the procession in London is more than watching a parade; it’s stepping into a living moment of history that unites generations. With thoughtful preparation, you’ll soak in the atmosphere without stress.

How to Engage Virtually and Make the Most of Online Resources

Not everyone can make it to London, but VE Day 2025 has robust digital options to connect you with the commemorations from anywhere.

Official Government and Event Websites: Websites like the VE Day 80 official page offer live streams of the key moments—the military parade, flypast, and beacon lighting. These are free and accessible across devices.
BBC’s Dedicated Coverage and Online Content: The BBC’s digital platforms provide live broadcasts, on-demand videos, and special documentaries. Through BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds, you can watch concerts, hear interviews with veterans, and explore rich historical footage. Accessibility features like sign language interpretation and audio descriptions make content welcoming for all.
Interactive Government Apps: Some apps launched for the event include real-time event updates, location guides, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Using these tools can enhance your experience, from navigating schedules to learning more about each tribute.
Social Media Participation: Join the conversation on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook by following hashtags dedicated to VE Day 2025. Many official accounts share video clips, survivor stories, and live coverage snippets. Sharing your own VE Day moments can be a meaningful way to connect with others commemorating the occasion.
Instructional and Educational Videos: Online platforms host numerous short films and tutorials explaining the significance of VE Day, the military units involved, and the aircraft featured in the flypast. These resources are perfect if you want to deepen your understanding before or after watching the events.
Virtual Community Activities: Some local councils and organizations are offering streamed street parties, singalongs, and even virtual tours of memorials. Participating online still allows you to feel the community spirit tied to the day’s celebrations.

Through these digital tools, VE Day 2025 can reach far beyond London’s streets. You can honor this milestone from the comfort of your home while sharing space in a collective memory that spans the country and beyond.

Public Invited to Line The Mall for VE Day 80 Procession and Fly Past

VE Day 2025 invites the public to gather on The Mall in London for a stirring military procession and spectacular flypast to mark 80 years since Victory in Europe. This long-awaited event promises a mix of solemn tribute and soaring celebration — a chance to join thousands in honouring the sacrifices made during the Second World War, while witnessing the RAF’s proud heritage and modern strength. If you’re planning to line the streets, here’s what to expect and why this moment matters.

Commemorations at the Cenotaph

The Cenotaph will be a pivotal focal point along the procession route. Veterans, armed forces members, and dignitaries will pause here for a moving wreath-laying ceremony. The silence and respectful crowds create a powerful atmosphere, connecting present-day spectators with the memories of those who served. Watching the marchers step past this iconic war memorial invites a moment of reflection on Britain’s sacrifices and courage through the decades.

Red Arrows in the Skies

The Red Arrows aerobatic display team will headline the flypast, filling the skies above Buckingham Palace with vivid trails of red, white, and blue smoke. Their precise formations and speed offer a stunning visual tribute. They will be joined by historic aircraft like the Lancaster bomber, alongside state-of-the-art jets including Typhoons and F-35s. This aerial display is not just a show of skill — it’s a living link between the past bravery of wartime pilots and today’s air force excellence.

Royals on the Balcony

Members of the Royal Family, including King Charles III and others, will watch the military procession from the specially constructed platform at the Queen Victoria Memorial. Their presence adds solemn gravitas and tradition to the occasion. While the balcony scene recalls the iconic 1945 appearances of the royals after VE Day, this gathering brings together the country’s leaders and veterans in a shared moment of remembrance and respect.

Street Parties and Get-togethers

Across the UK, joy bubbles up in communities hosting street parties and local get-togethers. These celebrations echo the spontaneous, hopeful spirit of 1945 when neighbours poured into streets to mark peace. From bunting-decorated roads to wartime music and shared picnic tables, these gatherings turn history into a vivid, lived experience. Councils support these events with road closures, while extended pub hours give adults a chance to toast peace well into the night.

Poppies Pouring Across Tower Lawn

In a poignant visual tribute, the Tower of London’s lawn will feature tens of thousands of ceramic poppies, symbolizing the lives lost across Britain and its former colonies during World War II. The installation connects VE Day to remembrance practices of today, inviting visitors to witness a sea of red poppies that both honours loss and celebrates peace. This spectacle is a reminder of the human cost behind the victory.

Music to Remember

Music will fill the air at various venues, especially the star-studded concert at Horse Guards Parade. Wartime classics like “We’ll Meet Again” will mix with modern performances, creating an emotional soundtrack to the day. Military bands, choirs, and artists bring history alive through song, evoking both the pain and hope that have shaped the decades since VE Day.

Celebrations Across the Nation

Beyond London, towns and cities across the UK will hold their own commemorations. From Cardiff Castle’s large-scale party to smaller community services in villages, the entire nation takes part. Beacon lightings at dusk join thousands of local gatherings, linking urban and rural from north to south with shared remembrance. Whether attending a parade, a concert, or quietly reflecting at a memorial, the spirit of VE Day is alive everywhere.

Lining The Mall to watch the VE Day 80 procession and flypast offers a front-row experience of history. But whether you gather in the capital or celebrate closer to home, VE Day 2025 is a day to come together, remember, and celebrate 80 years of peace with pride.

Conclusion

VE Day 2025 offers a powerful moment to remember the courage and sacrifice behind 80 years of peace in Europe. The planned ceremonies, concerts, and community events provide meaningful ways to honor those who served and celebrate the hard-won victory.

Watching the VE Day 80 concert and following live coverage on the BBC and other platforms brings the nation together, whether in London or from home. The flypast, royal appearances, and street parties fill the day with emotion and pride, connecting past and present.

By joining these commemorations, you help keep the spirit of VE Day alive—reminding us that peace is a gift earned by many, and a legacy to protect. Take part, watch closely, and remember that every moment counts in honoring this historic anniversary.