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VE Day 80

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is proud to host a series of commemorative events to mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day.

2025

Thursday 8 May 2025 marks 80 years since VE Day (Victory in Europe) when the Second World War came to an end in Europe.

Marking this significant anniversary, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is hosting a range of events and initiatives for residents to get involved and pay tribute.

Join the Celebrations!

What's On

Beacon Lighting

Join us at Antrim Castle Gardens and Mossley Mill at 9.30pm on 8 May 2025 as we light beacons representing the ‘light of peace’ that emerged from the dreadful darkness of war.

View Beacon Lighting

VE Day 80 Party In The Park

For this year's Party in The Park on Sunday 11 May, we are going back in time to the 1930s/1940s for a VE Day inspired celebration! Join us as we attempt to break the record for the largest Tea Dance!

View VE Day 80 Party In The Park

Beating Retreat

The Band of the Royal Irish Regiment will be demonstrating a Beating Retreat at Mossley Mill Civic Square on Wednesday 7 May at 7pm

View Beating Retreat

Street Party Packs

We are offering a limited number of celebratory party packs to community groups and organisations within Antrim and Newtownabbey who are organising VE Day 80 Anniversary Events.

View Street Party Packs

Grants

Funding for organisations who are wishing to develop and implement commemorative events, volunteering opportunities or community celebrations to mark VE Day 80.

View Grants

World War II Exhibition

A World War II Exhibition will be available to view for free in The Garden Heritage Room at Antrim Castle Gardens to mark VE Day 80.

View World War II Exhibition

Holocaust Exhibition

A Holocaust Exhibition will be available to view for free in the Old Museum Space in Mossley Mill to mark VE Day 80.

View Holocaust Exhibition