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Posted on: 19 March 2025

As the 80th anniversary of VE Day approaches on Thursday, 8 May, we’re inviting our residents to start planning their VE and VJ Day celebrations now to make this anniversary a memorable one.  

VE Day marks the end of World War II in Europe and is a time to honour the sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women. The war did not end until 15 August 1945, when Japan surrendered, which was celebrated across the world as ‘Victory over Japan’ (VJ Day), the end of the Second World War. 

Councillor Alex Hegenbarth, Lead Member for Community and Housing, said: “We hope that our communities will come together to celebrate VE Day, either by joining in with the official government plans or by organising their own events.  

“Let’s commemorate this historic occasion with get-togethers and street parties, events, tributes, and more, and make this anniversary one to remember.” 

Ideas for VE Day celebrations 

  • Street parties and get-togethers: host a neighbourhood street party with music, dancing, and food. This could be a big lunch with friends, a street party with neighbours, a BBQ or even a food festival in your community. 
  • Visit your local war memorial to pay tribute to those that served (perhaps use the Imperial War Museum’s War Memorials Register to learn about your local war memorial). 
  • Organise an event for your community to reflect the lives and sacrifices of those that served, paying tribute to the VE and VJ Day generation. 

 Licensing requirements and road closures 

For larger events, such as street parties that require road closures, please be aware of licensing requirements and regulations. See our events webpage for useful information: tewkesbury.gov.uk/events. 

  • Temporary Events Notice (TEN)
    Sharing alcoholic drinks with your neighbours at a private party does not require a licence. If you plan to sell alcohol you need to apply for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) which is a simple process but please apply in plenty of time and at least ten working days before the event.  
  • Manage waste and litter 
    Visit the Gloucestershire Recycles webpage for useful tips on managing any waste following your event. Some helpful pointers include asking friends and neighbours to bring a dish; going local and seasonal for your purchases; and asking guests to bring a container or two for leftovers so that nothing is wasted. And remember to use your blue bin for any recyclables.  

For more information and resources, visit the official website: VE and VJ Day 80. Over the coming weeks, more assets will be added, such as posters to print and personalise and fun worksheets for children to colour in. 

Category: Community Licensing Waste and recycling