VE/VJ Day 80th Anniversary Events

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80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day

This year marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War, with Victory in Europe (VE) Day being 8 May 1945.

The Second World War changed the course of history and involved significant contribution and personal sacrifice by many to defend our safety and security.

In recognition of this key milestone, a VE80 anniversary parade will take place in Dumfries Town Centre on Saturday, 10 May from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

The parade will be led by members of the Dumfries and Annan Town Bands, followed by representatives of our retired and serving armed forces personnel, members of our local cadet units and other uniformed organisation. The parade will also include a drive past and display of vintage army vehicles and the Royal British Legion Scotland (RBLS) Riders Branch – as well as Standard Bearers from RBLS branches and other organisations from across the region.   

There will be a Royal Salute and Inspection of the Ranks by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenants and wreaths will be laid.

Council Convener, Councillor Malcolm Johnstone, will deliver the welcome and the Councils’ Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE will act as master of ceremonies.

Flags will be flown at council flag flying locations across the region from Friday 2 May to Monday 12 May 2025.

Community led events  

Local communities and RBLS Branches across Dumfries and Galloway are planning a number of events. Here is a selection that we have been made aware of:

On Sunday 4 May from 2–4pm, a 1940s themed Tea Dance will take place at the McMillan Hall, Newton Stewart. For further information or to obtain tickets please contact RBLS Newton Stewart.

Springfield and Gretna Green will commemorate VE day on Thursday 8 May at Stormont Hall at 8pm with an hour of 1940s music, followed at 9pm by the lighting of the Beacon of Peace.

On Thursday 8 May, a number of commemorative events are taking place as follows:

  • Annan War Memorial at 10.45am.
  • Dumfries War Memorial, St John’s Church at 11am.
  • Moffat War Memorial, at 11am.
  • Sanquhar War Memorial at 11am.
  • Castle Square, Stranraer at 11am.
  • War Memorial, Lochmaben at 11am
  • Dalbeattie War Memorial, Colliston Park at 6pm.
  • Newton Stewart War Memorial, Dashwood Square at 6pm.

On Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May, living history reenactors The Time Bandits will be at The Devil’s Porridge Museum, as part of their celebrations for the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

At 11.15am on Sunday 11 May, a Service of Commemoration will take place at St Michael’s and South Church, Dumfries. This will be followed by the Official Opening and Dedication of the Commemorative Garden of Remembrance on Brooms Road, opposite the church gate. 

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