Throughout May, June and August Visit Ely, as a part of the City of Ely Council, will be leading events for two incredibly important anniversary celebrations. They are VE Day 80, the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe and the end of the European element of the Second World War and VJ Day 80, the 80th Anniversary of Victory over the Japanese forces.
Visit Ely is working with several partners, including the RBL Ely Branch, Ely Cathedral, St Mary’s Church Ely and more to deliver a genuinely celebratory series of themed events to commemorate this incredible pair of anniversaries.
Beginning with the much loved Annual Eel Weekend, which will once again feature the much-loved Eel Day on 3rd May. This year will have the red, white, and blue theming of VE Day 80, with a special vehicle leading the parade which will include the Platinum Jubilee Eel, Eel-izabeth! Not only that, but this will be the first appearance of Ely’s brand new Town Crier in his new livery! More on his involvement will follow…
Ely’s Food, Drink and Craft Festival will take place on 4th and 5th May 2025, on Palace Green and Cross Green, featuring a remarkable range of artisan food and craft producers, along with the vibrant street food scene that has become incredibly popular in the past decade – look out for 1940s entertainment and bunting!
On 8th May 2025, the City will come together for a day of celebrations coordinated between Visit Ely, The City of Ely Council, Ely Cathedral, St Mary’s Church and the RBL Ely Branch. The day will begin at 9am when, joining with Town Criers around the world, our own Crier will stand on the steps of Sessions House and proclaim the nations thanks and reflections.
At this time, the VE Day 80 Flag will be raised on the Market Square and will fly throughout the day.
A service of thanksgiving will be held at the War Memorial, followed by themed tours at Ely Cathedral, along with a Lunchtime service, the Bellringers of St Mary’s Church will “Ring for Peace”, followed by a tea and cake available from the Women’s Institute Ely a service of celebration led by Rev. Phil Marsh. The day will conclude with the lighting of the beacon and Sing! Choirs performing “I Vow to the My Country” at 9.30 pm
On June 21st 2025, the now annual Ely Armed Forces Day will once again celebrate the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces- Past, Present and Future. The day will begin with a parade down High Street, a day of entertainment including The Bluesky Band, some very special guests and a closing service to end the day. Look out for the 1940s-themed refreshment offering!
Finally, though full details are unavailable, an event will be held for VJ80 on August 15th 2025, which will be similar to that held to celebrate VE Day 80. More details on this will be released in the coming weeks.
