Honouring VE Day 80th anniversary
17 April 2025
On 8 May 2025, the United Kingdom will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a pivotal moment in history when World War II officially came to an end in Europe. Across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, a series of events are planned to honour the sacrifices made and to celebrate peace, bringing communities together for a day of reflection and remembrance. Let’s take a look at what’s on:
Royal British Legion VE Day celebration – 3 May
Join the Royal British Legion, Fyvie branch for a family-friendly day of celebration, food and creative displays. Located on Main Street, Fyvie in Turriff, families will even get to witness some military vehicles on display! Read more on the event.
Image: Turriff Town Centre
War Graves Week tour at Aberdeen Trinity Cemetery – 4 May
As part of the National VE and VJ Day commemorations, this tour invites visitors to pay respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It’s a chance to reflect on the history and the enduring legacy of war graves. Book your tickets today.
Banff Castle VE and community showcase day– 10 May
In the heart of Aberdeenshire, this family-friendly event held at Banff Castle will bring together local organisations, with displays, music and historical war exhibitions. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the region's contribution to the war effort and to enjoy a day of family fun. Discover more information.
Image: Banff Bridge
Piping marathon February – May 2025
In a touching tribute to the role of local heroes, Piper Major Lady Jane Macrae from Aberdeenshire will mark the occasion with a special piping marathon, encouraging people to "pause for a few moments and reflect" on the human cost of war. Over the 80 days leading up to the anniversary, 20 pipers will take turns performing at various locations across the country. Piper Major Lady Jane Macrae kicked off the celebration in February at Crathes Castle.
VE Day celebration Aberdeen Performing Arts– 02 November
Looking ahead to the end of the year, this event promises a night of music, dance and storytelling, capturing the spirit of the 1940s and celebrating the victory of Europe’s forces. The celebration will be held at the Music Hall, featuring wartime songs and period performances to transport attendees back to the era with a particular focus on Aberdeen and the North-east. Tickets can be found on the Aberdeen Performing Arts website.
These events in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire provide opportunities to commemorate VE Day, reflect on the sacrifices made, and celebrate the freedom that was secured 80 years ago. Whether through music, walking tours, or historical discoveries, each event offers a unique way to honour this significant anniversary.
We’d love to be part of the fun! If you are planning to join in on the celebrations, please tag us @VisitABDN or by using our hashtags #VisitABDN or #BeautifulABDN for your chance to appear on our social channels.