Beacons to be lit to mark VE Day

Events are taking place across the South Coast

Author: Greg DeanPublished 8th May 2025

In Portsmouth, there is an online exhibition called Victory in 80 Objects. Created and led by the D-Day Story Museum it showcases 80 WWII victory-related objects and their stories.

D-Day Story Museum, Portsmouth

Meanwhile, On the Isle of Wight, a parade of local cadets will set off from Shooters Hill at 7pm and will proceed through the town.

Shooters Hill in the centre of Cowes

At 9.30pm, the town will be part of a global initiative when a special beacon will be lit.

And in Dorset, there will be a grand celebration to mark the 80th anniversary. It’s taking place at Christchurch Quay, from 6pm, evoking the joyful spirit of the street parties that marked the original VE Day.

The bandstand at Christchurch Quay

The event will feature live music, war-time vehicles, and historical displays and exhibitions before the lighting of the Beacon at 9.30pm to signify the light that emerged from the darkness of war.

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