This year marks 80 years since Victory in Europe (VE) Day — a moment that signified the end of the Second World War in Europe and a hard-won peace secured by immense sacrifice.
As this Bank Holiday weekend begins events to remember those who gave everything for freedom and democracy, we honour the resilience of those who endured the war on the home front — and the courage of communities who rebuilt in the aftermath. Their legacy is the peace and liberty we enjoy today.
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National Commemorations
Monday, May 5 – National Events
12:00 PM: Actor Timothy Spall will deliver Winston Churchill’s iconic 1945 victory speech in Parliament Square.
12:10 PM: A grand military procession of 1,300 personnel will march through Whitehall and The Mall, concluding at the Queen Victoria Memorial.
1:45 PM: A flypast over Buckingham Palace will include both historic and modern aircraft — from the Lancaster bomber to the Red Arrows.
Thursday, May 8 – VE Day 80th Anniversary
9:00 AM: Town criers across the country will deliver a VE Day proclamation as VE Day 80 flags are raised.
12:00 PM: A two-minute national silence will be observed, alongside a commemorative service at Westminster Abbey.
2:00 PM: The Royal British Legion will host a tea party for WWII veterans at the National Memorial Arboretum.
6:30 PM: Churches and cathedrals nationwide will ring their bells in unison, a symbolic echo of peace.
9:30 PM: Over 1,000 beacons and “Lamp Lights of Peace” will be lit across the UK, Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man. Communities will gather to sing “I Vow to Thee My Country”.
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Local Events
Residents are encouraged to participate in the national silence, attend local church services, or host their own commemorative gatherings. In addition, the following events will take place on Thursday, May 8:
Live Performances by Abbi-Kaye (Viva la Vintage)
Enjoy vintage hits at Tommyfield Market with performances at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM.
Commemorative Message Card – Spindles Shopping Centre
Share your thoughts and tributes on a special message card located outside Next, available from May 3 to May 8.
Illumination of Oldham Civic Centre
The Civic Centre will be illuminated for the final time on VE Day, serving as a tribute to those who served and marking the end of an era for this iconic building.
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As we pause to remember, let us recommit to the values of unity, peace, and freedom that so many fought — and fell — for. 
Well done to all local business and residents who have taken the time to display banners and bunting, and to host get-togethers.
Please feel free to share any local events.
Thanks
Jim
Jim McMahon OBE MP 