VE Day 2015: Here’s how London is celebrating 70 years since World War II ended
Exactly 70 years ago, Winston Churchill broadcast to the UK that World War II had come to an end, marking an Allied victory in Europe following six years of war.
Victory in Europe (VE) Day, as it is known, has been celebrated across the continent every year since 1945. London never fails to take part, and over the course of today and the weekend the historic moment will be remembered with various events across the capital.
Two-minute silence
At 3pm on Friday there will be a national two-minute silence at London's Cenotaph, where wreaths will be laid and an extract from Winston Churchill's speech read out.
'A Party to Remember' in St James's Park
On Saturday, Live Nation and the BBC are holding a Royal British legion concert at the Horseguards Parade. Hosted by Chris Evans, the event line up includes Pixie Lott, Jamelia, Status Quo and Blue. Tickets cost £36.7 and can be purchased at LiveNation.co.uk.
Service at Westminster Abbey
A national service of thanksgiving will be held at Westminster Abbey on Sunday. The Queen, who waved to the crowds as Princess Elizabeth on 8 May 1945, will attend.
Following the service, veterans and serving members of the armed forces will parade along Whitehall, passing on their way the Treasury balcony from which Churchill delivered his speech.
Art and photography exhibitions
Two exhibitions are being put on in London in remembrance of VE Day. Illustrating Victory, which is being held in Richmond, focusses on original artwork commissioned by the government during the war.
VE Day photography exhibition, held in City Hall, will be on display for a whole week, showing photos from the day London celebrated the end of the war.
1940s music in Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square will host a band on the steps playing music from the 1940s, coinciding with a parade of service personnel from Westminster Abbey and along Whitehall.