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Pubs allowed to open longer for VE Day

Pubs in the UK can serve until 1am on May 8 to celebrate VE Day.

April 19, 2025 at 09:20 AM

Sir Keir Starmer to give some pubs extra two hours of trading to mark VE Day

Pubs will stay open until 1am on VE Day to honor wartime sacrifices.

Pubs gain extended hours for VE Day celebrations

Sir Keir Starmer has announced that pubs and bars can extend their opening hours until 1am on May 8 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. These venues typically close around 11pm under licensing laws. Starmer emphasized the day’s importance in remembering those who served during the war. The hospitality industry has welcomed this decision, believing it will foster community spirit and allow for more gatherings. This move is part of four days of planned celebrations that include military parades and concerts across the UK.

Key Takeaways

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Pubs can stay open until 1am on VE Day in May.

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This change honors wartime sacrifices and promotes community.

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The hospitality sector supports the extended hours.

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Four days of celebrations will take place across the UK.

"As the nation's second home, the pub is the perfect place for communities to gather."

Emma McClarkin highlights the role of pubs in fostering community spirit during VE Day.

"VE Day is not only a moment of remembrance but also an opportunity for communities to come together."

Michael Kill emphasizes the importance of community during VE Day celebrations.

"The whole country should come together to remember the incredible sacrifices made by the wartime generation."

Starmer reiterates the importance of VE Day and its historical significance.

This decision reflects the government’s recognition of the social role that pubs play in maintaining community connections. The hospitality sector, still recovering from the pandemic, sees this as a vital opportunity to drive engagement and revenue. As sentiments around public gatherings evolve, this extension illustrates an adaptive approach to celebratory events, showing a blend of remembrance with communal enjoyment. It signals a government keen to reinforce national unity while boosting local economies.

Highlights

Pubs are the nation's second home during VE Day.
This is a chance to raise a glass to our heroes.
A much-needed boost for the hospitality sector.
Let’s gather to honor those who served our country.

Political sensitivity around pub hours extension

The decision to extend pub hours may lead to scrutiny regarding public health concerns and potential backlash from community groups wary of late-night activities.

The extended hours show a commitment to honoring history while supporting local businesses.

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ve day pubs hospitality celebrations community politics hospitality events

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