Milton Keynes Rose announce details of VE Day commemorative events

The Milton Keynes Rose in Campbell Park will be hosting commemorative events for the upcoming 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

Events will be held on Thursday 8th May 2025 to mark the 80 year anniversary since the day in 1945 when the European front of the Second World War concluded.

The Parks Trust, which looks after the MK Rose, have said that local residents are invited to join the city’s celebration at the Milton Keynes Rose.

The celebration begins from 8pm on Thursday 8 May to enjoy music, dancing and singing, plus refreshments before processing to the Light Pyramid. At 9.30pm, the beacon will be lit along with over a thousand other Beacons and hundreds of Lamp Lights of Peace to shine throughout the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. The flames and light will represent the ‘light of peace’ that emerged from the dreadful darkness of war.

Sarah Clarke DL, Chair of the Milton Keynes Rose Trust said, “This is a unique moment in our history. The purpose of the Milton Keynes Rose is to bring our diverse communities together to reflect and celebrate special moments such as VE Day 80, and to give thanks for all those who played their part in securing peace in Europe.”

Victoria Miles MBE, Chief Executive of The Parks Trust, added, “We’re delighted to support Milton Keynes Rose in the significant VE Day 80 anniversary. An evening of joy, reflection, and celebration right in the heart of the city will bring communities together in the park, to join the procession, see the light pyramid illumination, and enjoy some music – with song sheets for those who like to singalong.”

To find out more about the event, visit theparkstrust.com/VE80