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Victory in Europe Day, celebrated on 8 May 1945, is a date forever remembered by those who experienced it.
After nearly six years of intense conflict, Germany officially surrendered on 7 May 1945, marking the end of the war in Europe.
This unconditional surrender followed Adolf Hitler's death on 30 April, as Allied forces closed in on Berlin. His successor, Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz, authorised the surrender.
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Britain Celebrated Victory
Following Germany's defeat, celebrations erupted throughout the Western world, especially in Great Britain and North America. Over a million people took to the streets throughout Great Britain and Northern Ireland to commemorate the end of the War in Europe.
In London, massive crowds gathered in Trafalgar Square and along the Mall leading to Buckingham Palace. There, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, joined by Prime Minister Winston Churchill, greeted the cheering masses from the palace balcony.
Scotland celebrated with similar fervour, with the ringing of church bells, street parades, bonfires and spontaneous street parties. Everyone in Britain tuned into hear Churchill’s 3pm broadcast on the BBC announcing: “We can allow ourselves a brief moment of rejoicing."
Street celebrations
Street parties united neighbourhoods.
Bunting was hung and pots of tea were shared. Children wore paper hats, played games, sang songs and felt jubilant, however briefly after six long years.
Many towns held street parades like the one in Dumbarton, 8th May 1945.
George Square lights up in celebration of VE Day, May 9, 1945
Tommy Mac, a young boy during the war, remembers VE Day in Glasgow:
"I was 14 years old and I grabbed the hand of an older girl who became my companion for the day.
We made our way to the main celebrations in George Square.
The tram cars in Hope Street were filled with servicemen of all nationalities - American, Canadian, Australian, European; all singing and dancing.
Everyone was dancing an ‘eightsome reel’ – Scotland’s national dance. Music came from the old Glasgow Daily Record building – who also supplied the lighting for the parade.
To see the lights go on again in George Square was a miracle in itself!"
VE Day resources
Check out more learning resources for VE Day. Dive deep into the events that led to the end of World War II in Europe and explore the stories of those who lived through this pivotal moment in history.
Scotland’s Salute to VE Day Anniversary Concert
Join Us for a Special Concert!
Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland are thrilled to announce a special concert at the Usher Hall, Edinburgh on 6th May. This joint concert will commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe.