Apr
Next month marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), when Allied forces formally accepted Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender on 8 May 1945. This poignant milestone reminds us of the bravery, sacrifice and unity that secured peace for future generations.
Here at House of Fisher, we are honoured to share details of respectful and uplifting community events happening near our aparthotels in Reading, Bracknell, Newbury, Farnborough, Camberley, and Basingstoke, where we are sure many of our guests will want to participate.
Whether you wish to attend a solemn civic service, witness the symbolic lighting of a beacon, or simply join many others at commemorative gatherings, you’ll find events designed to pay tribute to those who served and to bring communities together in reflection and hope.
Reading
Civic Service of Remembrance
When: Thursday 8 May 2025, 7:00 pm
Where: Reading Minster, St Mary’s Butts, RG1 2LG
Details: Led by the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Glenn Dennis, this service will combine hymns, readings, and a time of silence to honour Second World War veterans. A light reception follows, offering an opportunity for quiet reflection and fellowship.
More info on Reading Borough Council’s website
Bracknell
VE Day Civic Event & Beacon Lighting
When: Thursday 8 May 2025, 8:30 pm–9:45 pm
Where: Bond Square, The Lexicon, Bracknell, RG12 1RQ
Details: Join a parade, live wartime music, and witness the lighting of the VE Day 80 Beacon and Lamp Light of Peace. A moment to unite in gratitude and remembrance.
National VE Day 80 event listing
Newbury
VE Day 80 Commemorations
When: Thursday 8 May 2025, from 11:00 am
Where: Newbury War Memorial, High Street, RG14 5AA
11:00 am – Civic service at the War Memorial
7:00 pm – Beacon lighting in Victoria Park with music and readings
Full programme on Visit Newbury
Community Day
When: Saturday 10 May 2025, 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Where: Victoria Park, RG14 1DJ
Family-friendly activities, live music, and community stalls.
Community celebration details at Newbury Town Council
VE Day Family Picnic & Activities
When: Sunday 11 May 2025, 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Where: Shaw House, Church Road, RG14 2DR
Drop in for a wartime trail, period crafts, and a historic exhibition.
Details on AllEvents
Farnborough / Aldershot
VE Day 80 Beacon Lighting
When: Thursday 8 May 2025, 8:45 pm (arrivals from 8:30 pm)
Where: Manor Park, Aldershot, GU11 1NX
With live pipers, readings by local historians, and the lighting of the national network of beacons at 9:30 pm.
Rushmoor Borough Council details
Camberley
VE Day 80th Anniversary Talk
When: Thursday 8 May 2025, 6:00 pm
Where: Camberley & District Club, Frimley Road, GU15 3JS
Tim Bean, from the Department of War Studies at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, reflects on VE Day, followed by a Q&A.
Further details and tickets available at Ticket Source
Town Centre Community Gathering
When: Saturday 10 May 2025, 9:30am to 3:30pm
Where: Camberley Town Centre
The VE Day celebrations We will be celebrating on the 10th of May in the Camberley Town Centre with a major display with various features from 9.30am until 3.30pm.
More info The Royal British Legions website
Basingstoke
VE Day Celebrations in the Town Centre
When: Thursday 8 May 2025, 12:00 pm–9:00 pm
Where: Top of the Town, Festival Place, RG21 7LE
12:00 & 1:00 pm: The Bluestockings sing wartime favourites
5:00 & 7:00 pm: “The Thornycroft Girls” family theatre show
8:00 to 9:00 pm: Historic street-party projections at the Willis Museum
More details via Basingstoke’s official events page
Want to host your own VE celebration event or find something near you?
Whether you want to organise and host your own street party or find a celebration event near you, there are a host of options and a handy event finder tool at the VE VJ Day website.
A huge Thank You from House of Fisher
We hope these commemorative events provide meaningful opportunities to honour the courage, unity, and sacrifice of so many during the years of 1939 to 1945. Whether you stay with us in Reading, Bracknell, Newbury, Farnborough, Camberley, or Basingstoke, House of Fisher welcomes you to join in reflection and celebration. We look forward to sharing VE Day’s 80th anniversary with many of our guests.