Military veterans are gathering for what may be their final VE Day tribute – here’s how watch VE Day 80 online from anywhere with a VPN as powerful stories are told and soaring aircraft take to the skies.
This Thursday, May 8, marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, which celebrates the Allied Forces’ victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
The momentous occasion, originally celebrated on May 8, 1945, will be commemorated with special TV events across the UK and Europe, with many veterans in attendance expected to share their stories from this pivotal moment in history.
The main events will include a special service at Westminster Abbey in London, military parades, a two-minute silence, aerial displays by the Red Arrows, and various community celebrations throughout the UK and Europe.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch the VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations online starting on Bank Holiday Monday, May 5.
How to watch VE Day 80 for free
The main VE Day 80 commemorative events will take place on Monday, May 5, 2025, with coverage starting at 10 am BST / 5 am ET / 2 am PT.
The central ceremony at Westminster Abbey will begin at 11 am BST / 6 am ET / 3 am PT, followed by a military parade and aerial display.
You can watch VE Day 80 for free on BBC iPlayer.
Don’t forget you can use a VPN to watch VE Day 80 on your usual streaming service from abroad.
Unblock any stream with a VPN
If you’re keen to watch VE Day 80 but you’re away from home and access to the show is geo-blocked, then you could always use a VPN to access it (assuming you’re not breaching any broadcaster T&Cs, of course). You may be surprised by how simple it is to do.
Use a VPN to watch VE Day 80 from anywhere:
How to watch VE Day 80 online in the US
BBC America: The network will air coverage of the main commemorative events starting at 5 am ET.
CNN: CNN will broadcast key moments from the VE Day celebrations throughout the day, with live coverage beginning at 5.30 am ET.
History Channel: The History Channel (via Sling/Fubo) will feature special programming throughout the day, including live segments from the international ceremonies.
PBS: PBS will air a special program covering the main events, scheduled for 8 pm ET (check local listings).
Brits currently away from home can use a VPN to watch VE Day on BBC iPlayer from abroad.
How to watch VE Day online in the UK
How to watch VE Day 80 in Canada
CBC: CBC News will provide live coverage of the main ceremonies starting at 5 am ET/2 am PT, with highlights featured throughout the day on CBC Television and CBC News Network.
Global News: Global will broadcast a special VE Day program with coverage of the international commemorations beginning at 5.30 am ET/2.30 am PT.
History Channel Canada: Similar to its US counterpart, History Channel Canada will air special programming throughout the day, including documentaries about Canada’s significant role in World War II.
Veterans Affairs Canada: The department will stream key ceremonies on their official website and social media channels, featuring Canadian veterans’ stories and commemorative events across the country.
However, UK nationals currently traveling in Canada can use a VPN to unblock BBC iPlayer and watch VE Day online from anywhere in the world. We recommend NordVPN.
Where to watch VE Day 80 in Australia
ABC: The Australian Broadcasting Corporation will air live coverage of the main UK ceremonies starting at 8 pm AEST, with extended coverage on ABC News channel and ABC iView.
SBS: SBS will broadcast special VE Day programming from 7.30 pm AEST, including international commemorations and Australian memorial services.
History Channel Australia: The network will feature day-long special programming about WWII and the significance of VE Day, with particular focus on Australia’s contributions to the Allied victory.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs: The DVA will stream special Australian commemorative services on their website and social media platforms, focusing on local veterans’ stories and Australia’s wartime experience.
Brits currently away from home can use a VPN to watch VE Day on BBC iPlayer from abroad.
What to expect from the VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations
The 80th anniversary of VE Day promises to be a moving tribute to the sacrifices made during World War II and a celebration of the peace that followed. Here’s what viewers can expect:
- A commemorative service at Westminster Abbey attended by the Royal Family, government officials, military representatives, and veterans
- A special two-minute silence at 11 am BST to honor those who lost their lives
- Military parades featuring veterans and current service members
- Aerial displays by the Royal Air Force, including the Red Arrows
- Community celebrations across the UK, with street parties, concerts, and special events
- International commemorations in major European cities, including Paris, Berlin, and Brussels
- Interviews with surviving WWII veterans sharing their experiences and memories
- Documentary specials exploring the historical significance of VE Day
The broadcasts will include expert commentary from historians and military specialists to provide context and insight into the events being commemorated.
As this marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, it represents one of the last major commemorations where a significant number of WWII veterans will be able to participate, making this year’s events particularly poignant and historically significant.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness history and honor the generation that secured peace in Europe 80 years ago.
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