Lighting up the library to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe
Tuesday 6 May to Thursday 8 May 2025
After sunset on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday the exterior façade of the Library of Birmingham will be lit up red, white and blue to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Thursday 8 May 2025 marks 80 years since VE (Victory in Europe) Day when the Second World War came to an end in Europe.
The long-anticipated news resulted in spontaneous celebrations breaking out across the nation. A national holiday was declared and people from all walks of life came together to mark the moment.
The war in the East did not end until 15 August 1945, when Japan surrendered. The day was celebrated across the world as ‘Victory over Japan’ (VJ Day).
The 80th anniversary of VE Day is a time for a nation to come together to learn about the stories of those that served and the VE Day generation:
- the servicemen who fought
- the children who were evacuated
- the women on the home front
VE Day 80 events and activities will be taking place across the country.
For more information, visit the .
Article published: 29 April 2025