UK Pubs Extend Hours to 1am for VE Day 80th Anniversary

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, pubs and bars in England and Wales will be allowed to extend their opening hours until 1am on May 8, following a directive from Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This extension applies to venues that typically close at 11pm and is intended to give people the opportunity to come together, raise a glass, and honor the sacrifices of the wartime generation. The move has been welcomed by both government officials and leaders in the hospitality industry, who see it as a boost for struggling businesses and a way for communities to unite in remembrance and celebration. Celebrations will also include a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, an RAF flypast over London, and a party at Horse Guards Parade to be broadcast live. The government highlighted that similar licensing extensions have occurred for other nationally significant events, such as major royal occasions and sporting finals. Industry representatives noted the positive impact this will have on both morale and the economy during challenging times for the sector.