Armed Forces Day

Join Us in Reading to Celebrate Armed Forces Day, VE Day & VJ Day 80!

Sunday 29 June 2025 11am – 4pm
Broad Street, Reading

On the 29 June, Reading will be coming together to honour and remember those who sacrificed so much during the Second World War and all those who have served and are still serving in the armed forces. This year marks 80 years since Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, two historic milestones that brought an end to the war and changed the world forever.

VE Day (8 May 1945) saw the end of the war in Europe, bringing peace after years of hardship, and was celebrated with street parties, dancing, and singing across the nation.
VJ Day (15 August 1945) marked the surrender of Japan, completing the Allied victory and bringing peace to the far east.

These anniversaries give us a chance to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of the soldiers, sailors, aviators, evacuees, and those who supported the war effort on the home front.

The day will feature:

• Performances by the Reading Scottish Pipe Band
• Local armed forces representatives
• Information stalls and activities from armed forces charities

If you’re a local armed forces charity, you can sign up to take part in Armed Forces Day.