Victory in Europe Day is on Saturday, May 8, 2027, and it falls on May 8 every year. Known as V-E Day, it marks the day in 1945 when Nazi Germany’s surrender took effect, ending World War II in Europe. It’s a day to remember those who served and those who died.
When Is V-E Day?
It’s always May 8. It’s not a federal holiday in the U.S., but it’s a commemoration in many countries. The U.K. and much of Western Europe mark May 8. Russia and several former Soviet states mark Victory Day on May 9.
What Happened on V-E Day?
Germany signed its unconditional surrender at Reims, France, at 2:41 a.m. on May 7, 1945.
Colonel General Alfred Jodl signed for the German High Command. Lieutenant General Walter Bedell Smith signed for General Dwight Eisenhower, and a French general signed as a witness, the National Archives notes.
The Soviet Union had not authorized its officer at Reims to sign, so a nearly identical document was signed in Berlin on May 8. The surrender took effect that day.
How the world reacted
In the U.S., President Harry Truman announced the victory on May 8, which was also his 61st birthday. Crowds gathered in Times Square and other city centers.
In Britain, Winston Churchill broadcast the news at 3 p.m. He warned the nation that Japan was still undefeated: “We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing.” May 8 was a national holiday in Britain, with street parties and thanksgiving services. An estimated 50,000 people packed Piccadilly Circus by midnight, the Imperial War Museums notes.
King George VI and the royal family appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony eight times. Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret slipped out to join the crowds unrecognized.
Why V-E Day Matters
V-E Day ended nearly six years of war in Europe that cost millions of lives. It’s a day to honor the soldiers, sailors and airmen who fought, and the civilians who endured the war.
The war was not over. Fighting continued in the Pacific until Japan agreed to surrender on August 14, 1945. The formal surrender was signed on September 2.
How to Observe Victory in Europe Day
- Thank a veteran: few World War II veterans are still living, so visit or write to one if you can.
- Record family history: ask relatives what they remember or were told about the war, and save the stories.
- Visit a memorial: many towns have World War II monuments; leave flowers or take a moment of silence.
- Read primary sources: view the surrender documents and newspapers from May 1945 online through the National Archives.
- Visit a museum: the National WWII Museum in New Orleans and many local museums tell the story.
- Support veterans’ groups: donate to organizations that serve veterans and their families.
- Teach the next generation: share a letter, photo or newspaper from 1945 with children and talk about what it meant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between V-E Day and V-J Day?
V-E Day (May 8, 1945) marks victory in Europe. V-J Day marks victory over Japan: August 14 or 15, when Japan agreed to surrender, or September 2, the formal signing.
Why does Russia celebrate on May 9?
The Berlin surrender took effect late on May 8, Central European time, which was already May 9 in Moscow.
Where are the original surrender documents?
The National Archives holds the German surrender document signed at Reims among its records of surrender and armistice.