In a recent announcement from the government, it was declared that there will be no special additional bank holiday in the United Kingdom to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two. This decision comes as a disappointment for many who were anticipating extra days off to mark significant events such as Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, which are observed in May and August respectively. The Daily Express had previously reported that ministers were contemplating offering extra bank holidays, but this has been ruled out by officials at Downing Street.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson confirmed that rather than introducing new holidays, the existing early May bank holiday scheduled for May 5, 2024, will be utilized for commemorative activities. They further emphasized that the recent Budget had allocated £10 million to facilitate events celebrating both VE Day on May 8 and VJ Day on August 15, showcasing a commitment to honor these landmark occasions without creating additional holidays.
VE Day, observed on May 8, marks the formal acceptance of Nazi Germany’s surrender in 1945, which effectively ended the fighting in Europe. VJ Day, celebrated on August 15, commemorates the surrender of Imperial Japan several months later, symbolizing the conclusion of the global conflict. The upcoming 80th anniversaries of these significant historical milestones are particularly poignant as they present one of the last opportunities for many surviving World War II veterans to take part in public observances and celebrations.
In light of this government’s recent decision, various ideas had emerged regarding how to appropriately honor these anniversaries. Some suggestions floated included potentially creating additional bank holidays on May 9 and 12, allowing for a long weekend of nationwide celebrations, or even adding a bank holiday on August 22 to create an extended summer break. However, the government’s stance to forgo additional bank holidays has been reiterated.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson notably stated, “We will look to use the existing May Day bank holiday for commemorative events.” This indicates a focus on streamlining the respect and recognition of these historical occasions within the current framework, rather than expanding upon it. The spokesperson also emphasized the government’s commitment to appropriately commemorating these important anniversaries by announcing substantial funding for related events.
Historically, the early May bank holiday, traditionally celebrated on the first Monday of May, has seen adjustments for significant anniversaries. For instance, this holiday was shifted back four days in 2020 to facilitate a three-day weekend for marking the 75th anniversary of VE Day. Moreover, it was also rescheduled to align with the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe in 1995. Other recent adjustments to the calendar included an additional bank holiday added last year to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III, which took place just two days before VE Day.
The finality of this announcement highlights an evolving conversation regarding public holidays and commemorative observances within the UK, particularly as the national landscape reflects on the monumental impacts of World War II as well as the sacrifices made. Despite the absence of a new bank holiday, the allocation of millions of pounds for celebratory events suggests that the government acknowledges the significance of these milestones and is committed to honoring the legacies of those who served. Thus, while there won’t be formal additional holidays, communities and veterans alike can look forward to meaningful commemorations, fostering engagement with historical remembrance.
