VE Day: Why We Still Remember Victory in Europe Day in 2025
Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), marked each year on 8 May, commemorates the day in 1945 when Nazi Germany officially surrendered to Allied forces, ending World War II in Europe. As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day in 2025, it is a time not only for remembrance, but also reflection on the present: the rise of new global conflicts, Europe’s evolving defence strategy, and how peace is never guaranteed.
In this comprehensive guide, we answer key questions about VE Day, its history, how different countries observe it, and why its message matters now more than ever.
What is VE Day?
VE Day stands for Victory in Europe Day. It celebrates the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany to the Allied Forces on 8 May 1945, ending nearly six years of war in Europe. It does not mark the end of World War II globally—that came later, on VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day) in August 1945.
🔗 Learn more about WWII timeline on Wikipedia
Why is VE Day Important?
VE Day is a symbol of:
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The end of tyranny and fascism in Europe
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The triumph of democracy and freedom
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A day to honour the sacrifices of millions of soldiers and civilians
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A lesson in the importance of peace and international cooperation
Today, with the war in Ukraine and geopolitical tensions rising globally, VE Day serves as a stark reminder of the cost of conflict and the fragility of peace.
How is VE Day Celebrated in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, VE Day is not a fixed bank holiday, but it is widely observed through:
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Parades and ceremonies at war memorials
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Flypasts by the RAF, including the famous Red Arrows
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Church services and public speeches
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Special broadcasts, such as Winston Churchill’s 1945 address, which was recently re-broadcast by actor Timothy Spall. Listen to Churchill's VE Day speech on BBC
In 2025, Britain marked the 80th anniversary with major events across London, including a military parade, a reading of personal wartime stories, and a nationwide two-minute silence.
Why Do Different Countries Celebrate VE Day Differently?
Though Germany signed the surrender late on 7 May 1945, the ceasefire took effect at 11:01 PM Berlin time on 8 May, which was already 9 May in Moscow. As a result:
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Western Europe marks VE Day on 8 May
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Russia and former Soviet states celebrate Victory Day on 9 May
Some countries even choose different dates altogether:
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The Netherlands and Denmark: Celebrate Liberation Day on 5 May
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Italy: Marks Liberation Day on 25 April
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Belgium: Commemorates VE Day with Armistice Day on 11 November
🔗 Read more about how Europe commemorates VE Day – The Guardian
VE Day in 2025: A Turning Point?
This year's VE Day comes at a critical moment in European history:
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The Ukraine war rages on
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The US foreign policy shift under Donald Trump raises concerns about NATO unity
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European countries, including France, Germany, and Poland, are massively increasing defence spending
Germany has declared 8 May 2025 a public holiday for the first time, reflecting renewed recognition of the historical burden and urgency to preserve democratic values.
🇩🇪 Chancellor Friedrich Merz and 🇫🇷 President Emmanuel Macron have both led public commemorations this year.
🔗 Read more on Europe's defence response – Euronews
What Does VE Day Mean Today?
In a world facing renewed threats from authoritarianism to military aggression VE Day has become more than just a historical date.
It is:
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A civic duty to remember the past
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A reminder that freedom must be defended
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A day to pass on the memory to new generations
As France’s Ministry of Defence put it in 2025:
“To the last surviving witnesses of the war, and to the younger generation—VE Day must honour the sacrifices and transmit the memory.”
Why Do Some Countries No Longer Mark 9 May?
For much of Eastern Europe, the end of WWII also marked the start of Soviet occupation. Countries like:
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Poland
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Estonia
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Latvia
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Lithuania
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Czech Republic
...have moved away from 9 May commemorations in favour of 8 May, as a statement of independence from Soviet history.
🔗 Discover more about post-Soviet memory politics – Encyclopedia Britannica
How Can You Commemorate VE Day?
Whether you’re in the UK or abroad, you can honour VE Day by:
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Attending a local remembrance event
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Watching historical documentaries or live broadcasts
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Sharing wartime family stories on social media
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Donating to veteran charities, such as:
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Wearing a poppy or commemorative item, such as Sock Geeks’ Poppy Sock Collection
Special VE Day Offer from Sock Geeks 🧦
As we honour the heroes of the past, Sock Geeks invites you to wear your remembrance with pride. To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we’re offering 30% off everything across our store with the code VEDAY at checkout. Explore our Poppy Sock Collection, designed to symbolise remembrance and unity through bold, respectful design. Whether you’re attending a memorial or simply want to show your support, these socks make a meaningful statement with every step. Offer valid until 10 May 2025.
FAQs About VE Day
🕊️ Is VE Day a public holiday?
In the UK, not every year - only on special anniversaries, like in 2020 and 2025. In France and Germany, yes.
📅 What year was the first VE Day?
8 May 1945, though the first full celebrations happened on 8 May 1946.
🎖️ What’s the difference between VE Day and VJ Day?
VE Day ended the war in Europe. VJ Day (15 August 1945) marked the end of WWII entirely with Japan's surrender.
🇷🇺 Why does Russia celebrate Victory Day on 9 May?
Due to time zones, Germany’s surrender occurred after midnight Moscow time, hence 9 May.
Final Thoughts
VE Day is not just a page in a history book - it’s a living reminder of the price of peace, the value of freedom, and the power of unity. In today’s shifting geopolitical climate, as Europe re-arms and rethinks its alliances, the lessons of VE Day are more relevant than ever.
Let us remember, reflect, and recommit to a future where peace is not only cherished, but actively defended.
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