Everything You Need To Know About The History Of VE Day

This year marks the VE Day 80th anniversary, a significant milestone commemorating eight decades since the end of World War II in Europe. The history of VE Day is rich, representing not just the military success of the Allied forces but also the collective relief felt across the continent as years of conflict ended. Such an important occasion deserves jubilant celebrations and, at Bonds The Jewellers, we thought it was only fitting to honour VE Day properly by compiling this overview of the history of VE Day

About VE Day

Victory in Europe Day, better known as VE Day, is celebrated on the 8th of May each year. This date signifies the formal acceptance by the Allied forces of Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender, effectively ending World War II in Europe. 

What makes this occasion so pivotal is that the road to victory was particularly arduous, marked by levels of suffering and conflict never seen before on such a scale. After long years of fighting since 1939, it was not until Allied forces advanced into Germany in 1944 that the German military apparatus crumbled and surrendered. The official act was signed on the 7th of May 1945 in France and came into effect on the 8th of May: the day we now celebrate as VE Day.

The First VE Day Celebrations

In the immediate aftermath of the German surrender, Europe experienced a huge outpouring of relief. Millions of people took to the streets in spontaneous celebrations, with crowds gathering in London at Trafalgar Square and outside Buckingham Palace. King George VI and Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the nation, acknowledging the collective effort of the Allied forces. Equally, there was great recognition for the suffering faced and sacrifices made by many, with a sense of sombreness lingering in all of the celebrations.

VE Day Today

In the decades since 1945, VE Day has continued to be commemorated annually with both jubilant and poignant celebrations. Key anniversaries, including the 50th and 75th anniversaries, have been marked most heavily with street parties, parades, and moments of silence across the UK. In particular, organisations such as the Royal British Legion work heavily through a range of initiatives designed to engage the general public in acts of remembrance and ensure that the history of VE Day continues to inspire generation after generation.

Celebrate The VE Day 80th Anniversary With Bonds The Jewellers

The VE Day 80th Anniversary this May is set to be another landmark occasion. At Bonds The Jewellers, we are delighted to be paying tribute with a hand-selected range of commemorative jewellery and keepsakes, including:

Halcyon Days Limited Edition VE Day Enamel Box

Created to commemorate the 60th anniversary of VE Day but still as poignant today, this beautiful enamel box captures the true essence of the original celebrations. Halcyon Days enamelling is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and fine details and these techniques really bring the spirit and history of VE Day to life in this edition keepsake box with a vibrant recreation of the RAF’s victory flypast on both the lid and outer. 

Saturno Silver Spitfire Cufflinks

For those heading out to celebrations or wanting to mark remembrance in a subtle way, these Saturno Silver Spitfire cufflinks are a beautiful way to commemorate VE Day. The unique enamel detailing of Saturno effortlessly brings the legendary Spitfires to life with vivid colours and intricate detailing. The Spitfire emblem perfectly symbolises both the bravery and technological advancements that played a crucial role in victory and therefore these cufflinks beautifully pay tribute to the heroes of 1945. 

We would be delighted if you joined us in celebrating the history of VE Day across the 80th anniversary this year. If you would like any further information about our commemorative VE Day products, do not hesitate to reach out to us.