Rutland Remembers: 80th anniversary celebration for VE and VJ day

This year, 2025, marks a momentous milestone as Rutland prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of both Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day. These pivotal events in history, celebrated separately on 8 May and 15 August, remind us of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who fought to secure global peace during the Second World War.

Rutland, often distinguished for its strong connections to the Armed Forces, offers a poignant backdrop for these reflections. With an estimated 20% of its population either serving, reservists, veterans, MOD civilian workers, or family members of these groups, the county holds its ties to military service close to heart. Renowned for its rich history and tight-knit community, Rutland will honour the legacy of these achievements with fitting tributes supported by Oakham Town Council, the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, and Rutland County Council at the end of Armed Forces Week (June 22 to 28)

The central highlight of this anniversary is the joint weekend celebration titled ‘Rutland Remembers: Our 80th Anniversary Celebration for VE & VJ Day,’ taking place on 28 and 29 June. Across this weekend of reflection and celebration, events will unite the community, honour the Armed Forces, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of veterans.

Saturday 28 June

The festivities begin in Oakham on Armed Forces Day with a gathering at the Armed Forces and Veteran’s Breakfast Club at The Grainstore. Starting at 9am, this special event invites veterans and serving personnel to connect over a hearty breakfast. Adding flavour to the day, CAMRA Rutland’s 12th Annual Beer Festival will run throughout the weekend, offering free entry to veterans and serving personnel upon presenting their ID cards.

Sunday 29 June

Sunday brings a day of grand celebration, beginning with a parade at 10am from Oakham Castle to All Saints Church. This parade will feature representatives from the Armed Forces, veterans, cadets, Scouts, Guides, and towns and villages across the county, creating unity and pride. Residents are invited to line the High Street for an excellent view of the procession.

At 10.30am, a Church Service of Thanksgiving will take place at All Saints Church, welcoming everyone to join in prayers of gratitude and remembrance. From 12 noon to 5pm, the festivities continue with The Party in the Park at Cutts Close, Oakham. This lively event promises an afternoon of live music, including performances by the Army Cadet Corps of Drums and a spectacular RAF Lancaster flypast. Families can enjoy a funfair, vintage military vehicles, and an array of food, drink, and other stalls.

"The powerful joy and relief at the end of the Second World War in Europe, and then in Japan, was a reflection of the losses, privations, destruction and hardship suffered during the war. The guns were silent, and peaceful life could be resumed. Rutland will come together this weekend to celebrate the peace and unity that was so hard won. I urge everyone from across our county, civilian, veteran and serving soldiers to join together to enjoy this weekend, our freedoms and way of life. This celebration will be an appropriate way to mark our appreciation of those in our county giving active service as it marks the end of Armed Forces Week. Our freedoms were hard fought for and our military are fundamental in maintaining them."

Dr Sarah Furness, Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland

As Rutland gathers to reflect on the eight decades since the end of World War 2, the celebrations serve as a reminder of the resilience and unity that upheld the world during its darkest hours. These events are not merely about looking back but also about fostering community, inspiring future generations, and ensuring that the legacy of VE and VJ Day remains a living, breathing part of Rutland’s identity.

Rutland Remembers stands as a testament to a county that holds history close, honours service deeply and celebrates life. Join us in commemorating these historic moments and celebrating the enduring spirit of peace and unity.