What's on in Watford for the 80th anniversary of VE Day

Thursday 8th May marks the 80 year anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, when Germany issued its unconditional surrender in 1945, signalling the end of the Second World War.

Here are some events happening in the Watford area to celebrate…

On Thursday morning at 9:30am, there will be a flag raising ceremony at the Peace Memorial outside Watford Town Hall. The event will include a morning of reflection featuring the reading of The Proclamation, the raising of the VE Day 80 flag, and tributes from local schoolchildren.

DRUM (Disability Recreation Unity Movement), a charity run by disabled people and carers to provide services and support to adults with physical disabilities, will host a VE Day Art Exhibition from 3:30pm-7pm on Thursday 8th May. The exhibition, which is open for all, will explore stories from the past with displays that honour the resilience and sacrifices of those who lived through the Second World War. It will be held at Parkgate Community Centre, Southwold Road, WD24 7DN.

At 9pm on Thursday, there will be a Beacon Lighting Ceremony at Watford Museum, Benskin House. The event will include a performance by the North London Military Wives Choir and the lighting of the beacon to symbolise peace and unity. 

The Bushey Museum and Art Gallery is hosting a variety of events to commemorate VE Day throughout May and June. The short film ‘We Were Children in the War’, running from 8 to 11 May, offers a moving account of childhood during wartime. There will also be a striking photo exhibition, ‘Destruction, Resilience, Victory’, on display from 8 May to 8 June, exploring themes of loss, strength and triumph. The museum will also feature its usual exhibitions, along with additional supporting displays throughout the month. Admission is free and the museum is located at Rudolph Road, Bushey, WD23 3HW.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: "On this 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, we come together to honour the courage, sacrifice, and heroism of the many brave service men and women who gave so much in the fight for freedom. We remember the millions who suffered, the lives lost, and the victory that was so hard-won. Their sacrifices secured the liberties we cherish today. We honour them with gratitude and we shall never forget."
 
To find out what other events are happening in the area to commemorate VE Day, visit: https://ve-vjday80.gov.uk/events/