How to organise a VE Day street party in Southend as 80th anniversary celebrations take shape

Southend residents are being encouraged to start planning celebrations for the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, with the city council waiving road closure fees for street parties.

This year marks 80 years since the Allied victory in Europe on 8 May 1945 and the surrender of Japanese troops on 15 August 1945, which ended the Second World War. To commemorate these significant moments in history, Southend City Council has announced a series of public events and invited local communities to join the celebrations.

What’s happening in Southend for VE Day?

A Beacon Lighting Ceremony will take place by the Cenotaph at Clifftown Parade on Thursday 8 May at 9pm, forming part of a national tribute to those who fought and fell in World War II.

In addition, on Bank Holiday Monday, 5 May, the Southend Wind Orchestra will perform a special Music in the Park concert at Southend Bandstand in Priory Park, sponsored by BTMK Solicitors. The concert will run from 3pm to 4:30pm, with residents encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and a picnic to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with friends and family.

Parking at Priory Park is limited, so residents are advised to travel by public transport or on foot where possible.

To honour VJ Day, another Beacon Lighting Ceremony will be held on Friday 15 August. Further details about this event will be announced closer to the date.

Street parties and community celebrations

Communities across Southend are being encouraged to mark this historic occasion by organising their own street parties or gatherings.

To support these celebrations, Southend City Council has confirmed that charges for road closures related to VE Day street parties will be waived.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, leader of the council, explained the decision, stating:

“We are honoured to be lighting beacons as part of the nationwide commemorations for both VE Day and VJ Day, standing together with communities across the UK in remembrance and celebration.

“Southend has a proud military history, and it is only right that we enable our communities to celebrate, remember, and honour that history. We have waived charges for road closures associated with VE Day street parties to help as many residents as possible to enjoy this historic event together.”

How to apply for a street party road closure

Residents wishing to hold a street party will need to apply for a temporary road closure to ensure the safety of participants. The deadline for applications is Friday 11 April 2025.

Applications can be submitted via the Southend Council website.

Important dates to remember

• Early May Bank Holiday: 3 to 5 May 2025
• Application deadline for road closures: Friday, 11 April 2025
• VE Day Beacon Lighting Ceremony: Thursday, 8 May 2025 at 9pm
• VJ Day Beacon Lighting Ceremony: Friday, 15 August 2025 (time TBC)

With free road closures and a variety of commemorative events planned, Southend residents have a unique opportunity to come together, celebrate, and reflect on the sacrifices made during World War II.