On 8th May 1945, World War Two in Europe came to an end. The day became known as Victory in Europe or VE Day. This year marks the 75th anniversary of VE Day and events will take place throughout Northern Ireland.
Across Northern Ireland, events, commemorations, and services will take place to remember the historic events of 1945. There will be opportunities to celebrate liberty as well as commemorate those who never returned from the conflict.
It is our duty to keep the events of the past alive in collective memory, including future generations – this is how we ensure that such a conflict never happens again. It is our hope that the nation takes a moment to reflect on the significance of this date, as a milestone that changed the course of history for the whole world.
Sir Andrew Gregory – Chief Executive SSAFA.
Please note, that in 2020, the May Day Bank Holiday will take place on Friday 8th May 2020 rather than Monday 4th May 2020.
Imperial War Museum Photo: H 41843 (Part of the War Office Second World War Official Collection). The Prime Minister Winston Churchill at a BBC microphone about to broadcast to the nation on the afternoon of VE Day. Photo taken on 8th May 1945. Copyright Mr Egalton - Official War Office Photographer.
Slieve Donard, Mountains of Mourne, Co. Down
At 1455hrs on Friday 8th May 2020, The Last Post will sound from the peak of Northern Ireland’s highest mountain. This marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe. Young people from the Air Training Corps, Army Cadets, Sea Cadets, and Combined Cadet Force will perform the piece. At 1500hrs, a piper will play ‘Battle’s O’er’ and a tune specially composed for the anniversary.
Enniskillen Castle, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh
As on Slieve Donard, The Last Post will sound at 1455hrs on Friday 8th May 2020. This event will take place on the highest peaks of England, Scotland, and Wales and in locations across the United Kingdom.
Sandy Bay Playing Fields, Larne, Co. Antrim
Over the Bank Holiday Weekend, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council plan to stage events at Sandy Bay Playing Fields, Larne, Co. Antrim. The VE Day events coincide with the annual Friends Goodwill Music Festival. Events will include a service of remembrance at the town war memorial.
This momentous occasion provides an opportunity to remember the sacrifice, courage and determination shown by people from all walks of life during the Second World War. It is important to keep the events of the past alive in collective memory, and among future generations to ensure that such a conflict never happens again and to show our esteemed veterans that we will never forget their contribution.
Alderman John Carson – Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
VE-Day - 8th May 1945
Other Events
If you have an event planned to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE-Day, let us know and we will add it to our listings.