London: King Charles III and senior members of the British royal family are set to take part in a major military parade and flypast in London, launching four days of national commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day—the moment Nazi Germany’s surrender officially ended fighting in Europe during World War II.
The commemorative events begin on Monday, with Big Ben chiming at midday to signal the start of the ceremonies. As the bells toll, excerpts from wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s iconic VE Day speech will be read aloud, setting a solemn tone for the historic occasion.
Following the tribute, over 1,300 members of Britain’s armed forces will march through central London, beginning outside Parliament and proceeding toward Buckingham Palace. King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Kate, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and veterans of the conflict will observe the grand procession.
In a gesture of solidarity, Ukrainian armed forces will also participate in the march, reflecting Britain’s continued support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
As the procession culminates, a dramatic flypast featuring vintage military aircraft and the Royal Air Force’s famed Red Arrows aerobatic team will soar above the capital, while the royal family watches from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
Later, the royals will host around 50 World War II veterans and individuals who lived through the conflict for a tea party inside the palace—an intimate gesture to honor their stories and sacrifices.
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“This 80th anniversary is a moment of national unity. A time to celebrate that hard-won peace, honour the memory of those who lost their lives, and remember the sacrifices made by so many to secure our freedom,” said Prime Minister Starmer.
The original VE Day, on May 8, 1945, was marked by jubilant celebrations across Britain. One of the most storied moments from that day involved the late Queen Elizabeth II—then Princess Elizabeth—who, along with her sister Princess Margaret, slipped unnoticed into the crowds outside Buckingham Palace.
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“We cheered the king and queen on the balcony and then walked miles through the streets,” Queen Elizabeth later recalled. “I remember lines of unknown people linking arms and walking down Whitehall, all of us just swept along on a tide of happiness and relief … I think it was one of the most memorable nights of my life.”
The formal 80th anniversary on Thursday will include a service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, where the royal family will be present and Prime Minister Starmer will deliver a reading. A nationwide two-minute silence will be observed at midday in all government buildings. The commemorations will conclude with a grand concert in front of the king and queen.
