Each year, Europe marks the anniversary of a pivotal moment that changed the course of history. On 8th May 1945, VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, was declared, officially signalling an end to the war in Europe that had raged for nearly six years, resulting in the loss of millions of lives. With the surrender of Germany and the Nazi regime, the majority of Europe was free, and parties sprang up in towns and cities all over the continent.
Now, more than eighty years on, we continue to honour the brave men and women who fought for their countries and helped bring an end to one of the bloodiest conflicts ever seen. For many serving personnel, veterans and military families, this is not simply a history lesson, it is personal. By remembering this day, we salute their sacrifice and that of their predecessors, never letting it fade from memory. And in today’s uncertain geopolitical climate, where conflict continues in many parts of the world, VE Day serves as a reminder that even the longest of conflicts can eventually give way to peace.
When is VE Day celebrated?
VE Day is 8th May in Europe, but due to time zone differences, Russia and some of the former Soviet states observe it on the 9th.
Does VE Day mark the end of the Second World War?
This is a common misconception. VE Day marks the end of the war in Europe, but not the end of the full global conflict. The Second World War officially ended on 2nd September 1945 when Japan surrendered. This means that we have VE Day, VJ Day and Victory Day.
- VE Day: Marks the end of the Second World War in Europe on 8th May 1945
- Victory Day: Celebrated in Russia and some Eastern European countries due to time zone differences when Germany surrendered.
- VJ Day: Also known as Victory over Japan Day, this marks the surrender of Japan and the end of the Second World War. Celebrated on 15th August in the UK, Australia and Canada and on 2nd September in the USA.
How did the Second World War end?
The Second World War ended in stages. 8th May 1945, saw the end of fighting in Europe. German soldiers began to surrender en masse, realising they were fighting an unwinnable battle. Close to one million soldiers laid down their weapons on the Eastern Front, with a further 120,000 captured in an Italian campaign.
Towards the end of April, Mussolini, the dictator of Italy, was executed by partisans. This act contributed to Italy’s surrender. Around the same time, the US army were advancing throughout southern Germany, while British military personnel were taking Hamburg, and Russian forces were taking Berlin. By the start of May, the cities had fallen, and German troops had neither the motivation, guidance, nor ability to stop the inevitable defeat.
Hitler then famously committed suicide in his bunker before Admiral Dönitz assumed command and immediately set about facilitating the German surrender.
On 4th May, German forces surrendered in Denmark, the Netherlands and northwest Germany, with German leaders then surrendering to the USA on 7th May and to Soviet forces on 8th May.
Fighting continued against Japan with the war officially ending worldwide on 2nd September 1945.
Is VE Day a public holiday?
In some places, Victory in Europe Day is recognised as a public holiday, but not in all of them. The UK, for example, commemorates it with ceremonies and remembrance events but does not set it aside as a public holiday.
Countries where VE Day is a public holiday
France: In France, VE Day is known as Fete de la Victoire and is given full national public holiday status with ceremonies held and businesses, schools and more closing.
Czech Republic: A public holiday, just like in France. It is named Liberation Day and marks the end of Nazi occupation.
Slovakia: A public holiday where people have the day off work or out of school. Known as the Day of Victory over Fascism.
Russia: Treated as a public holiday but celebrated on 9th May rather than 8th due to the time zone differences.
Countries where VE Day is commemorated but not given holiday status
UK: Not a public holiday, but special anniversaries such as the 50th and 70th are granted holiday status. Ceremonies and events are held every year to commemorate the day.
Germany: Not a nationwide holiday but occasionally granted for specific anniversaries. It is known as Tag der Befreiung.
Netherlands: Liberation Day, rather than VE Day. Held on 5th May rather than the 8th. Celebrated as a public holiday every five years.
Italy: Commemorated on 25th April instead to celebrate the liberation of Italy.
How is VE Day celebrated today?
In the UK, specific anniversaries are granted public holiday status. Street parties and specific events take place, as well as official ceremonies and memorials. On all other VE Days in the UK, street parties may still take place, alongside TV coverage and official ceremonies. Street parties and localised celebrations are typically smaller when the day is not recognised as a holiday due to work, family and educational commitments.
How was VE Day celebrated when the war ended?
The celebrations back in 1945 were on a truly grand scale for the time. After years of rationing, fighting, worry, stress and hardship, people were able to be thankful that a terrible event had finally come to an end.
In the UK, rationing was partially suspended so people could indulge in their celebrations and hospitality venues curated special menus and offers to incentivise customers to celebrate with them.
Fireworks, singing, dancing, eating and drinking spread throughout the country as people could finally look forward to a more peaceful future.
At Trinity, the bravery and sacrifice represented by VE Day is something we think about every day. Our job is to protect the people who put themselves in harm’s way so that others do not have to, and to give their families peace of mind while they do it.
How is VE Day being marked in 2026?
This year, VE Day falls on Friday 8th May. While the major national commemorations took place in 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary, including a concert at Horse Guards Parade broadcast live on BBC One and a service at Westminster Abbey attended by veterans, 2026 continues the tradition of local ceremonies, remembrance events and community gatherings held across the UK each year.
For those wishing to mark the day, the Royal British Legion, SSAFA and other armed forces charities typically coordinate events and fundraising activities around this time. Many communities also hold their own street parties and memorial services, keeping the spirit of 1945 alive in towns and cities throughout the country.
Whether you are currently serving, a reservist or a veteran, we offer a range of specialist insurance products built around the realities of military life. From military kit insurance and personal accident cover to buildings and contents insurance for those with a mortgaged or privately rented home, we are here to make sure you and your family are covered, at home and when deployed overseas.
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