VE Day

Plan and host a Great British Food Festival on Monday 5th May

Celebrate our freedom by sharing food together.

This could be a small gathering with friends, a Big Lunch street party with neighbours, a food festival in your community or even a BBQ.

With the launch of The Big Lunch Guide to Bringing People Together, full of event planning resources and tips, craft activities and conversation prompts for communities hosting local celebrations, planning your event has never been easier.

A shared moment of celebration.

• 09:00am

  Together We Stand:
  Flag Raising & VE DAY 80 Proclamation

• 12:00pm

  High Above, Loud & Proud: Bagpipers Tribute from all Four Peaks!

• 6:30pm

  Together We Chime—Let the Nation’s Bells Ring Loud!

• 9:30pm

  Lighting the Beacons with Flames of Peace: A Global Tribute!

  On 8 May 2025, we mark the
  80th anniversary of VE Day, our nation will unite to celebrate 80 years of peace since the end of World War II in Europe.

  This is not only a tribute to those who fought for freedom but also a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that have defined our country ever since.

  At 9:30pm, beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace will shine across the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, and UK Overseas Territories—symbolising the enduring strength of our communities.

  From city squares to village greens, we will stand together in gratitude, honouring the sacrifices that secured our freedom.

  They encourage everyone to take part—raise the flag at 9am, gather in streets, gardens, town halls, clubs and pubs.

  Let this be a day of joy, reflection, and celebration.

  As part of the Commonwealth’s 2.4 billion people, we reaffirm our commitment to peace, ensuring future generations understand and cherish its value.

  Together, we honour the past and celebrate a future built on unity, hope, and peace.