Blackpool celebrates VE Day 80th anniversary

Blackpool is preparing a series of events as the town joins the rest of the nation to celebrate the anniversary of VE Day on Thursday 8 May 2025.

Flags will be raised, ceremonies of reflection held, and tributes made in the town to celebrate the 80^th anniversary of VE Day.

People from all walks of life will come together to remember the  Second World War generation from the servicemen and women who fought, to children who were evacuated, and those that contributed to the war efforts on the home front.

In the evening, as thousands of beacons shine across the nation, the famous Blackpool Tower will be lit red, white and blue and there will be live entertainment on the promenade including 1940s themed singers.

Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Thursday 8 May will be a very special day in Blackpool as we celebrate 80 years since VE Day. Across the town, events have been organised by community groups and schools, as well as neighbours making the occasion with street parties.

“We are inviting residents and visitors to join us on the Tower Festival Headland for live entertainment and to celebrate VE Day in front of one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, The Blackpool Tower.

“Our event will end with the Tower being illuminated in red, white and blue joining towns and cities across the country in a unique and memorable moment in time.”

Key events – open to all

8.45am - 9am – Flag raising ceremony at the Town Hall, Talbot Square.

11am - Ceremony of reflection at the Fylde Arboretum and Memorial Garden, Moor Park Avenue. Civic dignitaries will join veterans and full military standard-bearers.

7.30pm – 9.30pm - VE Day 80 celebration event hosted by Hayley Kay on Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool Promenade. Performances from Dad’s Army Band and George Formby tribute. Singer Beverley Alexander will lead a communal rendition of  I Vow to Thee My Country.

At 9.30pm Blackpool will join the national beacon lighting ceremony by illuminating Blackpool Tower in red, white and blue.

Blackpool Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Major Adrian Hoyle, said: “This truly should be a time of both celebration and reflection. I encourage individuals, families, communities and organisations to participate wherever they may be and make this an unforgettable occasion.

“We owe so much to the many who fought so valiantly to protect our country and other countries. The significant sacrifices that were made should never be forgotten. However, this day should also be a celebration of their lives and the peace and freedom that they secured for all of us.”