The council will waive road closure fees to allow people to celebrate VE Day with street parties.

Southampton residents are invited to organise street parties in their communities to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

These celebrations can be held between Wednesday, April 30, and Wednesday, May 21.

For these residential street parties, the usual road closure fees will be waived, although applications must be submitted by Sunday, March 30.

The Lord Mayor of Southampton, Councillor Dave Shields, said: "Southampton played a key role in World War II, from building the Spitfire to supporting the D-Day landings.

"These anniversaries enable us to remember our city’s resilience, honour those who fought for our freedom, and bring the community together.

"I encourage our people to take part and ensure these stories are passed on to future generations.

"I’m really looking forward to hosting the tea party and celebrating with the city."

Meanwhile, bids are also being sought for the Lord Mayor’s Tea Party, a special gathering on Thursday, May 8, to honour the occasion.

Applications for attending the event must be received by Friday, March 28.

Spaces are limited, with priority given to World War II veterans, other veterans, and residents with memorabilia or photos of Southampton during World War II or VE Day.

Successful applicants will be notified by Tuesday, April 8, and if oversubscribed, names will be chosen at random.

Alongside these community celebrations, the city will host a programme of public events to honour Southampton’s pivotal role in World War II.

Organised by Southampton City Council in partnership with Associated British Ports (ABP), GO! Southampton, the Royal British Legion, and Bedford and Carlton Place Community, the events will bring the community together to reflect on the past and celebrate Southampton’s resilience.

These include the Hampshire VE 80 Concert at the O2 Guildhall Southampton on Sunday, May 4, hosted by the Royal British Legion.

Other events include a proclamation ceremony on Thursday, May 8, beacon lighting on the same day, a large-scale street party on Sunday, May 11, knitting and craft projects, displays at SeaCity Museum, guided walks, and banners.