VE Day Commemorations

Thursday 8th May 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day, the end of World War II in Europe. At one minute past midnight on May 8th 1945, hostilities with Nazi Germany officially ended and the guns across Europe fell silent. Celebrations took place all over the nation, and throughout Europe, and the day is now officially marked as VE Day.

This momentous day in history will be commemorated with town mayors and officials reading the VE Day Proclamation at 9am, church bells ringing out in an united celebration at 6.30pm and Beacons being lit at 9.30pm.

Commemorations are taking place across Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate and the Villages - ranging from community events and concerts, to Beacon lighting and local history days.

Discover more about Thanet’s roles in the two World Wars with our Frontline Thanet pages www.visitthanet.co.uk/frontlinethanet