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UK Extends Pub Hours to 1am for VE Day 80th Anniversary Celebrations

The Prime Minister confirmed extended hours for May 8, with Parliament set to approve the measure as part of nationwide commemorations honoring wartime sacrifices.

Pub hours have been relaxed before for special occasions such as the Euro 2024 final and major royal celebrations (Photo: John Lamb/Getty)

Overview

  • Pubs and bars that typically close at 11pm will remain open until 1am on May 8 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
  • The Home Office is preparing a statutory instrument for parliamentary approval to enact the temporary licensing extension.
  • Commemorative events from May 5–8 include a military procession, RAF flypast, and a service at Westminster Abbey, alongside community celebrations.
  • The extension follows past precedents for occasions of national significance, such as King Charles' coronation and the Euro 2024 final.
  • Hospitality leaders, including the Night Time Industries Association, highlight the economic boost for a sector still facing post-pandemic challenges.