UK marks VE Day 80th anniversary with royal events and national reflection
It’s been 80 years since Victory in Europe was declared, and across the UK, people are gathering once again to remember the day the guns fell silent and a long, harrowing chapter in European history came to an end. From the heart of London to coastal villages and quiet towns, VE Day is being commemorated not only with military processions and flypasts but with reflection, stories passed on, and plenty of cups of tea.
In London, the Royal Family is leading national commemorations, with King Charles and Queen Camilla attending several events throughout the week. Their presence, both public and symbolic, sets the tone for the country’s remembrance. On Monday, a military parade moved through central London before the Royals appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony, a nod to the iconic moment in 1945 when the late Queen Elizabeth, then a princess, stepped out to celebrate the end of the war in Europe with the crowds below.
The Palace has made it clear this week is about the veterans and their families. There’s hope that public attention remains focused on their stories and sacrifice rather than recent headlines. It’s understood the King wants this anniversary to be “a proud and cheerful” time to honour those who served and those who never made it home.
This year is particularly poignant. For the first time, none of the royals who appeared on the balcony back in 1945 are here to take part. The generation that fought the war is now almost entirely gone, making this anniversary feel all the more important.
Alongside the military presence and Red Arrows flypast, the Royal Family is hosting a tea party for veterans in the gardens of Buckingham Palace. There’s also a thanksgiving service at Westminster Abbey, with music, speeches, and personal stories that bring the history to life. A concert at Horse Guards Parade is set to close the commemorations with a mix of reflection and celebration.
One notable absence is Prince Harry, who recently gave an interview discussing his hopes for reconciliation and the challenges of returning to the UK without full police protection. While he spoke openly about his relationship with his father and concern for the King’s health, Buckingham Palace hasn’t responded and is maintaining its silence, keeping the spotlight firmly on the veterans.
This week is ultimately about them. From quiet corners of the UK to major public squares, the sense of shared gratitude is tangible. In a time when conflict once again feels uncomfortably close to home in parts of Europe, VE Day is a reminder of what peace looks like – and how hard it is won.
Many across the UK continue to honour the legacy of VE Day each year, with organisations like the Royal British Legion playing a key role in remembrance events and education.
For more on this anniversary and other uplifting or historic moments shaping the UK today, visit EyeOnLondon. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
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