UK Rules Out Extra Bank Holiday for 80th WWII Anniversary
The government plans to commemorate VE and VJ Day with events on existing May and August bank holidays, citing economic considerations.
- Downing Street confirmed there will be no additional bank holiday in 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
- The government intends to use the early May bank holiday to host events commemorating Victory in Europe (VE) Day on May 8.
- Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, which falls on August 15, may also be recognized during the existing August bank holiday period.
- More than £10 million has been allocated for national commemorative events to honor veterans and the legacy of the war.
- Officials cited the economic impact of additional bank holidays as a key factor in the decision to forgo extra days off.