02-05-2025
The VE Day 80th Anniversary events in the Watford area
Communities are invited to come together in remembrance, celebration and unity when VE Day 80th Anniversary events take place across the Watford area next week.
Let's unite in remembrance, celebration, and community spirit as we mark 80 years since Victory in Europe Day. (Image: Watford Council)
The commemorations in Watford on Thursday, May 8 begin with a Flag Raising Ceremony at 9.30am at the Peace Memorial outside Watford Town Hall.
The ceremony will include the reading of The Proclamation, the raising of the VE Day 80 flag, and participation from local schoolchildren.
That evening, at 9pm, Watford Museum will host a Beacon Lighting Ceremony, featuring readings of The Proclamation and The Tribute, a choral performance by the North London Military Wives Choir, and the singing of 'I Vow to Thee My Country', concluding with the beacon lighting as a symbol of peace and unity.
Singers during D-Day celebrations last year. (Image: Watford Council)
In Rickmansworth, the May 8 commemorations begin at 3pm with a relaxing VE Day Tea & Cakes afternoon hosted by Batchworth Community Council at the Royal British Legion Club, in Ebury Road.
Later, at 6.30pm, the bells of St Mary's Church will ring out in honour of peace and remembrance.
The evening festivities include a 1940's Swing Night from 8pm to 11.30pm at the Royal British Legion Club, featuring the band Burnt Rubber and classic hits from Frank Sinatra, Vera Lynn, Buddy Holly, and Elvis.
Simultaneously, at 8.15pm, an evening celebration will be held at St Mary's Church Centre, with light refreshments, a performance by Phoenix Morris, and a historical display titled 'What the Nation Ate During WW2' presented by Three Rivers Museum and the Rickmansworth Historical Society.
At 9.30pm, the community will gather by the War Memorial for The Nation's Tribute, where Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Patrick Moriarty DL will light a beacon, followed by group singing of 'I Vow to Thee My Country' in a powerful moment of national reflection.
Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss with cadets at a D-Day remembrance event with in 2024. (Image: Watford Council)
Celebrations continue on Saturday, May 10 in Croxley Green, where the parish council will host a WW2 & 1940s Picnic on The Green from 12 noon to 5pm.
The event will include live wartime music and performances, 1940s-style dancing, themed family activities, and a range of food stalls and refreshments.
Those attending are encouraged to bring their own picnic and blanket to enjoy the day in true vintage style.
