Commemorating 80 Years Since VE Day

Thursday the 8th May marks the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day - which commemorates the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces. A day of historic significance, VE Day celebrates the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of those who lived through and contributed to the war effort, both on the front lines and at home.

Portsmouth, with its deep naval roots and proud wartime heritage, is honouring this milestone anniversary with a series of events and exhibitions across the city. Take a look at some highlights below:

• The Portsmouth History Centre at Central Library is hosting a special exhibition featuring local images from World War II, accompanied by interactive elements to engage visitors of all ages. Across the city, temporary plaques on lampposts will highlight key moments and locations tied to the war effort in Portsmouth.
• In a national collaboration led by the D-Day Story Museum, the "Victory in 80 Objects" online exhibition showcases 80 powerful WWII-related artefacts from six major military museums, each telling a unique story of victory and remembrance.
• The D-Day Story Museum will also host a live VE Day event on Sunday 11 May, offering an immersive experience with military vehicles, re-enactments, hands-on activities, and educational displays.
• Lastly, there is also the spectacular VE Day 80 celebration at Portsmouth Historic Quarter on Friday 10 May, from 10:00 - 16:00. This free event will transport visitors back to 1945 with vintage music and dance, costumed interpreters, historic vessels, and family-friendly activities. Highlights include swing dance sessions with Portsmouth Lindy Hop, live performances by 1940s trio The Charlalas, and the chance to explore wartime boats like Motor Gun Boat 81 and High-Speed Launch 102.

City of Portsmouth College will also join the nation in the two minute silence being held at 12 noon, in order to remember and thank those who fought for our freedom.

COPC is proud to represent a city with a proud naval and wartime legacy like Portsmouth, and we invite students, residents and visitors to come together to remember and celebrate 80 years since VE Day.