Southend to commemorate 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day with beacon lightings and events

March 20, 2025

Residents are being encouraged to start planning their celebrations for the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE Day) and Victory over Japan (VJ Day).

This year marks 80 years since the Allied victory in Europe on 8 May and the surrender of Japanese troops on 15 August, ending World War II. The council invites residents to take part in a series of commemorative events.

To mark VE Day the council will be holding public events throughout the week including a Beacon Lighting Ceremony by the Cenotaph at Clifftown Parade on Thursday 8 May at 9pm.

There will also be Music in the Park at Southend Bandstand in Priory Park, sponsored by BTMK Solicitors, featuring the Southend Wind Orchestra performing a special concert to mark the occasion on Bank Holiday Monday (5 May). The event will take place between 3pm and 4:30pm.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket, as well as a picnic, to enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon with friends and family. Please note that parking at Priory Park is limited, so we recommend using public transport or walking where possible.

VJ Day will be commemorated with a Beacon Lighting Ceremony on Friday 15 August, with further details to be announced.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, leader of the council, said: “We are honoured to be lighting beacons as part of the nationwide commemorations for both VE Day and VJ Day, standing together with communities across the UK in remembrance and celebration.

“Southend has a proud military history, and it is only right that we enable our communities to celebrate, remember, and honour that history, so we have waived charges for road closures associated with VE Day street parties to help as many residents as possible to enjoy this historic event together.”

Street parties and community celebrations

The council would also like to encourage communities to celebrate in their own meaningful way through a range of activities, which may include street parties. Residents interested in holding a street party must apply for a road closure to keep everyone safe. Applications for street parties must be submitted by Friday 11 April.

To apply for a temporary road closure for your street party, please complete the application form on our website. Charges for a street party road closure are being waived by the council so that residents can enjoy this historic event. To find out more about organising a street party visit the council’s VE Day street party page.

Alternatively, you can keep the road open and organise a gathering or ‘Street Meet’ on private land, such as a driveway or front garden.

Residents should speak to the council about plans if they may cause obstruction or disruption.

More helpful tips, advice and support for organising a successful event can be found on The Big Lunch website and the Street Party website.

Further information on this year’s 80th anniversary of VE Day can be found on VE80.com.