VE Day 80 Anniversary, 8 May 1945 to 2025

Come to Lisburn to commemorate VE Day 80 

On Thursday, 8th May, Lisburn will host a day of celebratory events to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, commemorating the end of World War II in Europe. Join us as we honour and remember those who sacrificed so much for peace and freedom eight decades ago.

Programme of events

Please note this is a provisional calendar and further dates and details will be made available closer to the time.

VE Day 80 Small Grant Fund

The small grants fund is now closed and successful applicants will be informed soon. 

9am
Town Crier proclamation and flag raising ceremony

Lagan Valley Island 

The Town Crier will deliver the official VE Day 80 Proclamation.

The Mayor and Deputy Lord Lieutenant will raise the unique VE Day 80 flag in remembrance.

2pm to 4pm
VE Day Themed Tea Dance

Market Square
Everyone is welcome as Market Square will be filled with music and dancing from the 1940s at a VE Day themed tea dance.

6.30pm to 9.30pm
VE Day 80 Beacon Lighting Ceremony

Castle Gardens
Mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day in Lisburn with a parade through the city and a beating retreat in Castle Gardens. At 9:30pm, join us as beacons are lit in unison with the national program, honouring the sacrifices made for peace and freedom.

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Bespoke flowerbeds

A series of specially designed flowerbeds to celebrate VE Day 80 will be planted up across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

City centre screening

A screening of original footage by British Pathé of VE Day will be shown in the city centre.