The 80th anniversary of End of WII will commemorate Germany's unconditional surrender in 1945, remembered as the liberation from Nazi rule, and will focus on peace, democracy, and honoring the victims of war and dictatorship.

When is the 80th Anniversary of End of WII?

The 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II in Germany will fall on May 8, 2025.

May 8 is not a nationwide public holiday in Germany, but it is often marked with ceremonies at memorials, museums and historical sites.

On the 80th anniversary (2025), Berlin declared May 8 a one-time public holiday, and similar recognition may occur for the 75th in 2020.

The History of the 80th Anniversary of End of WII?

On May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany formally surrendered to the Allied forces, marking the end of World War II in Europe. This date is known as Victory in Europe (V-E) Day internationally.

In Germany, it is often referred to as Tag der Befreiung (Day of Liberation), as it marked liberation from National Socialism and the end of dictatorship and war.

The anniversary is a moment of reflection and remembrance, honoring the victims of war, the Holocaust, and tyranny. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of peace, democracy, and reconciliation in Europe.

Germany, alongside other European nations, is expected to hold memorial events, exhibitions, and educational programs to mark the milestone.

Although May 8 is not a nationwide public holiday in Germany, in Berlin, past anniversaries have been observed with commemorations at the German-Russian Museum in Karlshorst, where the surrender was signed.