Oldham Council celebrates 80th anniversary of VE Day with events and a tribute to the Civic Centre
Thursday 8th May 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day, the day when the Second World War officially came to an end in Europe.
The announcement of victory brought joy and relief, with spontaneous celebrations breaking out across the nation. A national holiday was declared and people from all walks of life came together to mark the moment.
Oldham Council is hosting events in the town centre to commemorate this historic occasion. The 80th anniversary of VE Day is not only a time to remember the end of the war in Europe, but also an opportunity to honour the stories of those who served, from the brave servicemen who fought, to the children who were evacuated and the women on the home front.
Events include:
- Live performances by Abbi-Kaye (Viva la Vintage) at Tommyfield Market at 10:00am, 12:00pm and 2:00pm. Sing along to vintage hits and relive the spirit of 1945!
- A commemorative message card at Spindles (outside Next), where people can sign and share their thoughts, which will be displayed for everyone to read.
- Bunting decorating Tommyfield Market and Yorkshire Street, transforming the town into a vibrant celebration of VE Day.
As part of the celebration, Oldham’s Civic Centre will be illuminated for the final time on VE Day, marking a fitting tribute to those who served and reflecting on the end of an era for the building.
Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “Lighting up Oldham Civic Centre for the 80th anniversary of VE Day feels especially fitting, as it marks the end of an era in more ways than one. This will be the final time we illuminate the Civic tower, a place that has stood as a symbol of local democracy and civic pride for decades. As we commemorate such a significant moment in our nation’s history, it’s only right that we say goodbye in this meaningful and celebratory way.”
In the future, the Old Library, set to open in summer 2025, will become Oldham’s new home of democracy. The library will continue the tradition of lighting up for future special occasions, keeping our connection to the past while embracing an exciting new chapter for Oldham.
