Pubs and bars across England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 1am BST on Thursday 8 May, as part of nationwide celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, the government has confirmed.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the special extension of licensing hours on Friday, allowing venues that usually close at 11pm to serve customers for an additional two hours.
“Keeping our pubs open for longer will give people the opportunity to join in celebrations and raise a glass to all of the men and women who served their country, both overseas and at home,” Sir Keir said in a statement.
He urged the public to “come together” on the momentous occasion to remember the sacrifices made by the wartime generation and to celebrate the peace and freedom they secured for future generations.
VE Day, observed annually on 8 May, commemorates the day in 1945 when Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allied forces, bringing an end to World War Two in Europe. This year’s milestone marks eight decades since that historic event.
The change in trading hours will be enacted through an order laid before Parliament by the Home Office, pending formal approval.
The government has previously introduced similar licensing extensions during notable events, including past VE Day anniversaries, royal celebrations, and major sporting fixtures like the Euro 2024 final.
The hospitality industry has responded positively to the decision. Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, said the extended hours offer a dual benefit.
“This is not only a moment of remembrance but also an opportunity to come together. At such a challenging time for the hospitality sector, allowing businesses to extend their trading hours during these celebrations offers a much-needed boost while paying tribute to our shared history,” he said.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, echoed that sentiment, calling pubs “the nation’s second home” and the “perfect place for communities to gather and raise a glass to all of those who made huge sacrifices for our freedom.”
Commemorative events will begin during the Early May Bank Holiday weekend, starting on Sunday 5 May. The programme includes a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, culminating in an RAF flypast over central London.
On the day itself, 8 May, a service of thanksgiving will be held at Westminster Abbey, followed by a large-scale concert at Horse Guards Parade. The concert is expected to draw more than 10,000 members of the public, with performances and tributes honouring those who fought and lived through the war.
The government hopes the commemorations and extended pub hours will unite communities across the country in a spirit of reflection and celebration, ensuring that the legacy of the wartime generation continues to be honoured for years to come.
