Some on the far right want to deny that their ideology was defeated in 1945. They want us to believe something much more sinister and untrue. To be able to transition and learn, we must first shut down their ignorance and propaganda:
Then this May, Dorset and the rest of the UK can genuinely join in commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, marking the historic moment in 1945 when the Allied forces triumphed over fascism in Europe and brought an end to the Second World War on the continent.
Residents across Dorset are being encouraged to take part in a wide range of events designed not only to celebrate peace but also to remember the incredible sacrifices made by people from across the UK and the Commonwealth in the fight against fascism. From beacon lighting ceremonies and exhibitions to community gatherings and street parties, communities across Dorset are coming together to honour the generation who fought to secure freedom.
A Community Commemoration of Courage and Sacrifice
The centrepiece of this year’s commemorations in Bournemouth will take place on the evening of Thursday 8 May, when BCP Council Chairman Councillor Lesley Dedman will host a beacon lighting ceremony outside the Civic Centre. His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Mr Michael Dooley, will be in attendance. Beginning at 9pm with music from the Poole Borough Band, the beacon will be lit at 9.30pm to symbolise light overcoming darkness, just as it did in 1945.
Councillor Andy Martin, BCP Council Cabinet Member for Culture, Customer and Communications, spoke of the significance of the anniversary:
“I am very pleased to see the events that are planned across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole for the 80th Anniversary of VE Day. The further away we get from the Second World War, the more important it becomes to remember.
“It’s great to see residents organising street parties as a way for the community to celebrate and reflect. Some 30 applications have been received for street parties to be held on Monday 5 May, and the council has ensured these are not costing anyone a penny.
“I hope that everyone has a chance to come together with family, friends and neighbours to celebrate and commemorate this momentous day.”
Events Across BCP:
In Poole, highlights include:
- Saturday 3 May, 2pm: ‘Poole at Dunkirk’ exhibition at the Lighthouse, attended by the Mayor of Poole.
- Throughout May: Exhibition at the Dolphin Centre honouring the wartime contributions of local women.
- Thursday 8 May, 10.45am–4pm: Poole Veterans Hub gathering at Poole Park War Memorial.
- Saturday 10 May, 11am: Saturday Friends VE Celebration at St Paul’s Church, Canford Heath—expect wartime tales, music, and even Spam sandwiches.
In Christchurch:
- Thursday 8 May, 6pm–10pm: ‘A Shared Moment of Celebration’ at Christchurch Quay, including live music, displays, family activities, and beacon lighting at 9.30pm.
In Bournemouth:
- Tuesday 6 May, 2–4pm: Afternoon tea with wartime songs and dance at Townsend Community Association, Jewell Road.
- Thursday 8 May, 10am–2pm: Cream tea and 1940s music at Kinson Community Centre.
- Thursday 8 May, 12–5.30pm: Westbourne VE Day celebration on Landseer Road organised by Bournemouth Coastal BID.
- Sunday 11 May, 1pm: The Mayor of Bournemouth will attend a commemorative celebration at Fisherman’s Walk, Southbourne.
Countywide Commemorations and the Great British Food Festival
All across Dorset, communities are expected to come together for the national “Great British Food Festival” on Monday 5 May. From picnics and barbecues to traditional street parties, residents are encouraged to mark this moment in history by sharing food, stories, and fellowship.
A wealth of resources and party-planning ideas, including templates for bunting and quizzes, are available on the official VE Day 80th anniversary website. A national events map is also available to help residents find local celebrations.
Town and parish councils across Dorset are organising their own events, with many suggesting ‘Street Meets’ in driveways, front gardens, or local greenspaces; simple, accessible ways for neighbours to come together.
Dorset Council will also host its own beacon-lighting ceremony at Durlston Castle in Swanage on Thursday 8 May at 9.30pm, led by Chair of Dorset Council, Stella Jones MBE. All are welcome to attend this solemn and unifying moment.
Cllr Ryan Hope, Portfolio Holder for Customer, Culture and Community Engagement, said:
“The 80th anniversaries of VE Day give us a chance to come together and honour the sacrifices made by many during the war. Whether you’re attending a local event, hosting a street party, or sharing stories from the past, we encourage everyone in Dorset to take part in commemorations and celebrations.”
Lessons from History: A Call for Vigilance Today
As we reflect on the triumph over fascism 80 years ago, it is vital to remember the devastating cost of that victory: tens of millions dead, entire cities destroyed, and countless lives forever changed. The struggle against fascism was not merely a military campaign but a fight for the very soul of civilisation: freedom, justice, and democracy.
Today, as authoritarian ideologies once again gain traction both at home and abroad, the lessons of VE Day remain starkly relevant. The courage and unity shown by the wartime generation must inspire us to stand firm against intolerance, hatred and the erosion of democratic values.
We commemorate VE Day not only to honour those who lived through the horrors of war but also to remind ourselves that peace and liberty are never guaranteed; they must be protected and upheld by each new generation.
So this May, whether you’re waving a Union Jack on your street, lighting a beacon in the evening sky, or simply sharing tea and stories with neighbours, remember what was fought for in 1945 and why it still matters today.
Will you be attending any of the local VE Day events in Dorset?
