Celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day

VE Day is an opportunity for the nation to come together to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth, through a series of national and local events and activities.

Host a street party

What better way to celebrate than with a street party? We are encouraging friends, family and neighbours to come together to mark this historic milestone over the bank holiday weekend, Saturday 3 - Monday 5 May. Dig out your bunting and apply now to close your road for free. Apply by Friday 18 April.

Apply for a street party

Lewisham Council’s Beacon Lighting Ceremony

The ceremony will take place on Thursday 8 May, from 7-9pm. The event will be held outdoors, starting at All Saints’ Church and heading straight towards the Blackheath Gate of Greenwich Park.

The schedule includes a live brass band performance by Lewisham Concert Band at 7pm, followed by the beacon lighting at 8pm, and continued live music until 9pm. Attendees are encouraged to plan for all weather conditions and are welcome to bring their own refreshments or enjoy offerings from local vendors.

Proms and Picnics

Proms and Picnics will take place on Monday 5 May, from 12-2pm. Enjoy live music from Chapel Brass at Beckenham Place Park or the Lewisham Concert Band at Mountsfield Park. Both parks have cafes where you can purchase snacks, or you can bring your own picnic.

Exhibition

There will be an exhibition of photos from VE Days past at the Civic Suite, opening times to be confirmed.

Published on: 10/04/2025