Cambridgeshire will join communities across the country in commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a special beacon lighting ceremony on Thursday 8 May 2025.

2025 marks 80 years since VE Day, when the Second World War came to an end in Europe. Just like in 1945, VE Day will see the nation come together to honour and pay tribute to the millions of people across the UK and Commonwealth who served in the Second World War.

Following music and a speech from Mr Christopher Walkinshaw, Deputy Lieutenant for Cambridgeshire, the beacon will be lit at 9.30pm alongside others across the UK, Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man.

The lighting of the beacon will take place on Castle Mound, Cambridge, and will symbolise the coming together of community and the ‘light of peace’ that emerged from the darkness of war.

The ceremony has been organised by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Armed Forces Covenant Partnership, in collaboration with Cambridgeshire County Council and Cambridge City Council.

Tommy Kelly, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Armed Forces Covenant Partnership Coordinator said: “VE Day is a historic event for the country and communities across Cambridgeshire.

“Lighting the beacon is an opportunity for us all to come together to pause, reflect, and remember the generation that changed the course of history in Europe to secure the freedoms we enjoy today.

“The ceremony is free to attend and no booking is required. We hope as many people can join where possible to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.”

For more information on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, please visit Cambridgeshire County Council's webpage.