VJ Day Celebration – Friday 15 August 2025

VJ Day Celebration – Friday 15 August 2025

The 80th Anniversary of Victory Over Japan Day (VJ Day) takes place on Friday 15 August 2025, commemorating the end of the Second World War by marking the day Japan surrendered in 1945.

Fighting in the Asia-Pacific took place from Hawaii to North East India. Britain and the Commonwealth’s principle fighting force, the Fourteenth Army, was one of the most diverse in history – more than 40 languages were spoken, and all the world’s major religions represented. 

The descendants of many of the Commonwealth veterans of that army are today part of multicultural communities around the world, a lasting legacy to the success and comradeship of those who fought in the Asia-Pacific.*

*ve-vjday80.gov.uk/vj-day 

Events Hosted by the Lord Mayor of the City of Chester

9.30am the Lord Mayor of Chester, Sheriff, and Chair of Cheshire West and Chester Council will be laying wreaths at Chester War Graves.

11.50am the Lord Mayor of Chester will attend Chester Cathedral Gardens where the national two-minute silence will be observed at 12pm.

8.30pm – lighting of the Beacon of Peace outside Chester Town Hall followed by music.