Official tourism website for Lisburn and Castlereagh
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  1. Image shows burning flame from beacon.
    Mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day in Lisburn with a parade through the city and a beating retreat in Castle Gardens.
    1. 8 May 2025

Come to Lisburn to commemorate VE DAY 80

Thursday 8 May, 9am
Town Crier proclamation and flag raising ceremony

Lagan Valley Island 

The Town Crier will deliver the official VE Day 80 Proclamation.

The Mayor and Deputy Lord Lieutenant will raise the unique VE Day 80 flag in remembrance.
 

Thursday 8 May, 11am
Royal British Legion wreath laying ceremony

Lisburn War Memorial, Castle Street

The Royal British Legion is hosting a wreath laying service at Lisburn War Memorial to commemorate VE Day 80.
 

Thursday 8 May, 2pm - 4pm
VE Day Themed Tea Dance

Market Square

Everyone is welcome as Market Square will be filled with music and dancing from the 1940s at a VE Day themed tea dance.
 

Thursday 8th May, 8.15pm - 9.30pm
Beacon Lighting Ceremony

Castle Gardens

Join us for a commemorative evening in Lisburn as we mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a Parade, Beating Retreat and Beacon Lighting Ceremony.

8.15pm - Parade Departure from Market Square
The evening begins with a commemorative parade setting off from Market Square at 8.15pm. Watch as it make its way through Lisburn city centre, travelling via Castle Street en route to Castle Gardens.
 

8.30pm - Parade Arrival at Castle Gardens
The parade will arrive at Castle Gardens at approximately 8.30pm, where the crowd will gather for the next stage of the ceremony in this historic and scenic location.
 

8.45pm - Beating Retreat by the Band of the Royal Irish Regiment
Enjoy a stirring musical performance as the Band of the Royal Irish Regiment will lead a beating retreat from 8.45pm to 9.15pm. This ceremonial military display offers a moment of pride and reflection, echoing the spirit of remembrance.
 

9.30pm - Beacon Lighting Ceremony
At 9.30pm, join us for the lighting of the VE Day 80 Beacon in Castle Gardens. This symbolic act, taking place in unison with beacon lightings across the UK, will pay tribute to the enduring legacy of those who fought for our freedom.
 

All are welcome to attend this free public event.
Come together with the community to reflect, remember, and honour.

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