Pub-goers will be able to raise a toast to veterans for an extra two hours next month to celebrate the historic 80th anniversary of VE Day.
With celebrations planned across the country on Thursday, 8th May, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmerhas announced that pubs and bars will be permitted to extend their opening hours until 1am for the occasion.
This means venues that usually close at 11pm can remain open for an additional two hours, allowing patrons to continue commemorating this significant milestone.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said:
“As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the whole country should come together to remember the incredible sacrifices made by the wartime generation and to celebrate the peace and freedom they secured for us all. Keeping our pubs open longer will give people the opportunity to join in the celebrations and raise a glass to the men and women who served their country, both overseas and at home.”
Pub licensing hours can be relaxed for occasions of ‘exceptional national significance’, and the government is keen to ensure everyone can toast those who served during the Second World War.
Similar extensions have been granted in the past for major royal celebrations and sporting events, such as the Euro 2024 final.
Beyond bringing communities together, the extended hours are expected to provide a welcome boostto the hospitality industry.
VE Day Commemorations
The celebrations will begin on Bank Holiday Monday, with the Cenotaph adorned in Union flags, a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, and an RAF flypast over London.
On Thursday, 8th May, nationwide festivities will culminate in a grand celebration at London’s Horse Guards Parade, broadcast live on BBC One. More than 10,000 members of the public are expected to attend, with performances by stars from stage and screen.
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, said:
“This is a momentous occasion, and as the nation’s second home, the pub is the perfect place for communities to gather and raise a glass to those who made huge sacrifices for our freedom. Extending licensing hours means people can come together for longer, fostering community spirit while allowing pubs to host even more commemorative events honouring our veterans and celebrating peace.”
Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, added:
“The 80th anniversary of VE Day will see communities across the country unite in celebration, with many gathering in their local pubs. I’m pleased the government is extending licensing hours, enabling thousands to raise a glass in tribute to those who served.”
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said:
“As someone with strong family ties to the armed forces, I understand the importance of honouring those who served. VE Day is not only a time for remembrance but also an opportunity for communities to unite. At such a challenging time for hospitality, extending trading hours offers a much-needed boost while paying tribute to our shared history.”
