On the build-up to the VE Day 80th anniversary next month, Cumberland Council is encouraging event organisers to submit their details to feature on an online listing.
A special VE Day section will be created on both the Discover Carlisle and Western Lake District websites.
Both websites have recently undergone a new revamp, and the council is asking VE and VJ Day event organisers to feature on their local listing.
Event information can be submitted by https://www.discovercarlisle.co.uk/more/list-your-event/ or https://www.westernlakedistrict.com/more/list-your-event/
To help commemorate the May anniversary, the council is also planning to light their main buildings red (and where it allows red, white and blue) and will also fly the Union Flag.
Residents planning a street party should check whether a temporary road closure is required and submit their application normally 8 to 14 weeks in advance for council review. However, for VE Day parties, the council is making an exception, and the deadline for applications will be Friday 11 April. This allows time for preparation before VE Day on Monday 5 May.
The process is simple: complete the road closure form, include a map of the affected area, and ensure emergency vehicle access is maintained. A risk assessment will be required, and public liability insurance is recommended but optional.
VE Day application forms are available by contacting the Traffic Team at TrafficTeam@cumberland.gov.uk
There will be no charge for VE Day street party applications.
For additional guidance and tips on organising a successful street party, residents can visit The Big Lunch or Street Party websites.
Cumberland Council is also providing funding for commemorative events. Apply via this form: Healthy Places Funding Application Form.pdf by Monday 28 April 2025.
Community and voluntary organisations can also apply for national grants to help host 80th anniversary events, activities and exhibitions by applying to the National Lottery Community Fund Awards for All programme. Grants are available to help bring communities together to commemorate the Second World War and its impact on people across the country
The Government has announced four days of nationwide celebrations across the country leading up to VE Day 80 on Thursday 8 May 2025 - starting with street parties, barbecues and community get-togethers up and down the country on Bank Holiday Monday 5 May.
The official 80th anniversary website offers a wealth of tips and inspiration for party planners including The Big Lunch Guide to Bringing People Together, ideas for food, games and activities, quiz sheets and templates for home-made bunting, flags, posters and party invitations.
The timeline announced by the Government leading up to #VE80 includes:
- Monday 5 May - street parties and community gatherings across the country, including on board HMS Belfast in London
- Tuesday 6 May - historic landmarks to be lit up this evening and an installation of ceramic poppies to return to the Tower of London
- Wednesday 7 May - concert at Westminster Hall in London
- Thursday 8 May - service at Westminster Abbey and concert at Horseguards Parade, London.
Later in the summer, on VJ Day, Friday 15 August, the National Memorial Arboretum will host a service to mark 80 years since the end of the war in the Far East.
Town Council and Parish Councils are also organising events to mark VE Day. Check out their websites and social media accounts for updates.