Victory in Europe Day, known as V-E Day, marks May 8, 1945, when Allied forces formally accepted Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender, ending World War II in Europe. Huge crowds celebrated in cities from London and Paris to New York. V-E Day is remembered as a day of relief and joy, but also of reflection on the enormous loss of life during the war. It is a time to honor veterans and remember those who died.
History of Victory in Europe Day
World War II began in Europe in 1939 when Germany invaded Poland. The United States entered the war after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. After years of fighting, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy in June 1944, Allied forces advanced into Germany from the west while Soviet forces advanced from the east.
Adolf Hitler died on April 30, 1945. On May 7, German officials signed an unconditional surrender at Reims, France, and it took effect on May 8. A second signing took place in Berlin, and because of the time difference, the Soviet Union marked victory on May 9.
On May 8, 1945, President Harry S. Truman, whose birthday it was, announced the victory. Celebrations erupted across the U.S. and Europe, though Americans knew the war against Japan continued. World War II officially ended with Japan's surrender later in 1945.
Why Victory in Europe Day Matters
V-E Day honors the courage and sacrifice of millions of soldiers, workers and civilians who helped end the war in Europe.
It is also a time to remember the victims of the war and the Holocaust and to reflect on the importance of peace.
As the number of living World War II veterans decreases, recording and sharing their stories has become even more important. The day encourages younger generations to learn history directly from veterans and their families.
How to Celebrate Victory in Europe Day
- Honor veterans: thank a World War II veteran or visit a veterans' home.
- Learn history: read first-hand accounts of V-E Day.
- Visit a memorial: visit the National WWII Memorial or a local monument.
- Watch archival footage: see newsreels of V-E Day celebrations.
- Record stories: help preserve veterans' stories for the Veterans History Project.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share historical photos or stories, or invite a historian to speak. Some teams may wish to support veterans' organizations. In classrooms, students can study primary sources such as newspapers and photographs from 1945, interview family members about their family's experiences, or learn about the home front in the U.S. At home, families can watch a documentary together, visit a museum, or look through family photos and letters from the war era. Talk with children thoughtfully about war and peace.
Fun Facts About Victory in Europe Day
- Germany's surrender took effect on May 8, 1945.
- President Truman's 61st birthday was V-E Day.
- Russia and some other countries mark Victory Day on May 9.
Victory in Europe Day FAQs
When is V-E Day?
V-E Day is May 8.
What does V-E Day stand for?
Victory in Europe Day.
Why do some countries celebrate on May 9?
Because of the timing of Germany's surrender in Berlin, it was already May 9 in Moscow.
When did World War II end completely?
After Japan's surrender in 1945.