Kirklees communities encouraged to celebrate VE DAY 80
Come together with friends, family and neighbours to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May.
Celebrate VE day in your community
The government has announced four days of national events marking 80 years since the Allied victory in Europe. The historic anniversary, marking the end of the Second World War in Europe, will be observed on Thursday 8 May with celebrations planned across the country from May Day Bank Holiday Monday on 5 May. The commemorations will honour the millions of individuals from the UK and Commonwealth who served during the Second World War.
Celebrations are expected across the UK, and there will be no charge for road closures for street parties celebrating this special occasion to support residents and groups in organising community get-togethers in Kirklees. Those planning to hold street parties in Kirklees are encouraged to apply for road closures as soon as possible, before the deadline of Monday 13 April 2025.
Councillor Carole Pattison, Leader of Kirklees Council and Cabinet Member for Culture, said:
“This is a chance for us all to come together to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth.
“The 75th anniversary was during lockdown with COVID-19 restrictions, but for the 80th anniversary of VE Day, neighbours and communities will be able to come together fully to celebrate with food and music, just as they did during the celebrations that took place across our nation 80 years ago.
“Plans to commemorate the anniversary in Kirklees include civic receptions at Huddersfield and Dewsbury Town Halls, a beacon lighting event in Holmfirth, and activities at Oakwell Hall, among others.
“I’m delighted there will be no charge for road closure applications for street parties celebrating VE Day. As some safety and legal considerations need to be addressed, we encourage residents to submit their applications as soon as possible. This will allow us to make the necessary preparations behind the scenes.”
Further information about events taking place in Kirklees will be available in the coming weeks.
How to organise your own street party
More information is available on the council’s website about how to organise a street party and apply for a road closure.
Find out more about VE Day 80, along with ideas on how to get involved and an interactive map showing events happening across the UK, on the official website.