Victory in Europe Day
About Victory in Europe Day
When is Victory in Europe Day? This historic day is always observed May 8
Victory in Europe Day, or V-E Day, is a May 8 holiday. It is a celebration and commemorates the end of fighting in Europe during World War II. After years of war, the Third Reich of Nazi Germany was defeated. During the war, millions of people were killed. On April 30, 1945, Adolf Hitler, Germany’s Dictator, committed suicide in his bunker in Berlin. On May 8, 1945, the war in Europe was finally over. American GIs were coming home.
The German Army ceased fighting on May 2, and formally surrendered unconditionally, on May 7th. The surrender of all German forces was arranged for May 8 at 11:01. The Allied countries celebrated the victory, and the cessation of hostilities.
Did you Know? The originally planned date for the celebration of V-E Day, was May 9th, 1945. But, journalists caught wind of the plans. So, the U.S. and Britain moved the date up by a day to May 8th. Russia kept to the originally planned date of May 9th. Russia still celebrates V-E Day on May 9th.
How to Celebrate Victory in Europe Day
There are a lot of things to do on V-E Day. Here are some ideas:
- First and foremost, never forget why we fought WWII.
- Learn more about the history of World War II.
- Read a book on WWII.
- Watch a movie about World War II.
Today's Quote
War may not determine who is right, but it definitely determines who is left.
This Day in History
Certainly, Victory in Europe Day celebrates the most important thing that happened on this date. However, there are other notable happenings on this date. Here are a few of them:
- The U.S. Post Office is established. (1791)
- In 1980, the World Health Organization announced that Smallpox has been eradicated worldwide. The last known natural case occurred during 1977.
- Boxing champion Sonny Liston was born on this day in 1932.
Other Holidays Related to Victory in Europe Day
More May 8 Holidays
Besides Victory in Europe Day, here are more May 8 holidays and events we are certain you will enjoy:
More About Today
Recipe of the Day: Onion and Carrot Kabobs
Flower of the Day: Daylilies
Holiday Insights, where every day in May is a holiday, a bizarre or wacky day, an observance, or a special event. Join us in the daily calendar fun each and every day of the year.
Did You Know? In addition to Victory in Europe Day, there are literally thousands of daily holidays, special events, and observances, more than one for every day of the year. Certainly, there is no shortage of daily holidays in May. Many of these holidays are new. People and organizations are creating new holidays regularly. Consequently, at Holiday Insights, we take great efforts to thoroughly research and document the details of each one, as completely and accurately as possible.