What You Need to Know About VE Day: Celebrating the End of World War II

It’s difficult to imagine the sense of euphoria, mixed with sadness and grief, that came with the declaration of the end of the Second World War. Millions of people rejoiced in the news that Germany had surrendered, with towns and cities across the UK - and the world - marking the victory with street parties, dancing and singing.

Here's all you need to know about VE Day:

• The official announcement that the war had ended in Europe was broadcast to the British people over the radio late in the day on 7th May 1945.
• Many people in Britain didn't wait for the official day of celebration and began the merriment as soon as they heard the news, but a national holiday was declared on the 8th May - once Churchill was assured there were enough beer supplies in the capital!
• Events took place across the UK, including parades, street parties and dancing, with the celebrations continuing well into the night with bonfires and fireworks to mark the occasion. 
• On the day, Churchill addressed the nation with his famous speech. You can watch it in full here.

• Between the joy and celebration, many people mourning the death of their loved ones, or worried about others still serving overseas, found it difficult to celebrate. So this VE Day, 80 years on, we at Troopr will be celebrating, but also honouring those heroes who never came home and the families who lost so much.

Up and down the country, there are events planned on and around the 8th May. To find out how you can get involved and what is going on in your area, Honouring Heroes: What is your town doing for VE Day?, has got all the information you need including a great interactive map where you can search for events in your local area.