VE Day 80 celebrations in Weymouth

Plans to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day in Weymouth are already taking shape, with events ranging from a beach concert to a beacon lighting and grants available for community groups to host their own activities.

Thursday 8th May marks 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe. To commemorate this historic occasion, we will be hosting the following events:

Throughout the day: The VE Day flag will be flown at the flagpole next to Weymouth War Memorial for all to observe.

All of the following will take place at the Jubilee Clock:

9:00 PM: The Royal British Legion, Weymouth Branch, will hold a short service.

9:20 PM: Weymouth Town Council will host a brief beacon lighting ceremony.

9:30 PM: The VE 80 temporary beacon will be lit to mark the anniversary.

Saturday 10^th May – A live music concert will take place on Weymouth Seafront, featuring local bands and musicians performing across various genres. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnics, blankets, and chairs to create a relaxed, festival-style atmosphere. Further details, including performance schedules, will be announced closer to the event.

Plus, grants are available for local community and voluntary groups to apply for and we will advertise successful grant awards after the closing date.

Apply for a grant

A total of £3,500 is available for community and voluntary groups to put on VE Day-themed events. Each group can apply for up to £350 towards costs of their activity including food and refreshments, decorations, entertainment, equipment and materials, displays and educational activities, venue hire or insurance.   

Are there any restrictions?

Grants will not be used to fund street parties in residential streets, however if a group wishes to hold a ‘street party’ event in a community hall / space / outdoor green then this may be considered. 

Funding is not available for commercial / for profit events.

The grant can only be used for events and activities to commemorate the 80^th Anniversary of VE Day between Wednesday 30^th April and Wednesday 21^st May 2025. Should you wish to apply for funding outside of these dates, please provide an explanation within your application.

How do I apply for a grant?

The scheme is now open for applications. The application form and the grants policy document is below. If completing the document below, submit to events@weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk by the deadline of Wednesday 9th April.

Or simply complete our online form below, also by the closing date of Wednesday 9th April:

We will be in touch once your application has been considered.