Salford City Council has announced plans to mark the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day. Major commemorations and events are happening throughout the nation as 2025 marks 80 years since VE Day when the Second World War came to an end in Europe.
The council unveiled plans to hold a special commemorative event which will take at the Sunken Gardens at the front of Salford Civic Centre from 9pm until 10.50pm on Thursday 8 May 2025.
The event will feature a specially commissioned fire and light installation from Walk the Plank lasting for 80 minutes. The spectacular display will be accompanied by an original soundtrack of spoken voices created by a local artist featuring people of Salford’s reflections on peace. City leaders will also deliver special speeches and tributes to mark the anniversary as Salford remembers VE Day.
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “On this significant 80th anniversary of VE Day, we come together as a nation to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom. Their courage and resilience remind us of the immense sacrifices made – by those on the front lines, those who gave their lives, and those who supported the war effort at home.
“This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on their legacy, to learn from the stories of the VE Day generation, and to ensure their contributions are never forgotten. I am proud to stand alongside our Armed Forces community and residents of our great city, joining with the rest of the country in remembrance and gratitude.”
The Ceremonial Mayor of the City of Salford, Councillor Tanya Burch added: “This is a very special anniversary and is both a moment of commemoration and celebration – a time for us to come together as a city to honour those who fought and gave their lives for our freedom.
“Salford’s VE Day 80 celebration is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of our Armed Forces personnel and their families, recognising their strength and dedication. We must never forget the heroes who stood against tyranny in the pursuit of peace. May the Lord strengthen and keep safe current military personnel who keep us at peace in these troubled times.”
Please join us for this special commemorative event as we come together as a city to remember and celebrate this historic anniversary.
This is a free, community event open to the public. A hot drinks vendor will be on site for the event. This event will take place outdoors so guests are encouraged to dress appropriately, it will be a standing event with some limited bench seating in the garden. Accessible toilets will be available.
To find out more about Salford’s VE Day 80 event visit: www.salford.gov.uk/veday80
