This week in Chorley - VE Day 80th Anniversary Commemorations
This week, Chorley comes together to mark a momentous occasion — the 80th anniversary of VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, which commemorates the end of World War II in Europe on 8th May 1945. It’s a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who lived through the war, and to reflect on the peace and freedoms we enjoy today. Across the town, residents and visitors alike can join in a week filled with commemorative events, community gatherings, and family-friendly activities. Here’s a look at what’s happening across Chorley to mark this historic milestone.
Flying the VE Day Union Flag
On 8 May (and for a while after) a special anniversary VE Day Union Flag will be flying at Chorley Town Hall and at the Civic Offices on Union Street.
VE Day 80 Proclamation
Thursday 8 May 2025, 9am, Chorley Town Hall
At 9am the VE Day 80 proclamation will be read by the Town Crier outside Chorley Town Hall (St Thomas’ Square).
Empire Cinema Screening of 'A Matter of Life and Death' - Commemorating VE Day
Thursday 8 May 2025, 7pm, Chorley Theatre
Join Empire Commuity Cinema (Chorley Theatre) for the screening of the classic film 'A Matter of Life and Death', tea and cake. The screening is timed to finish in plenty of time before the Beacon Lighting in Astley Park.
Tickets are required for this event. Please see the Chorley Theatre website for further details and to book tickets.
St Laurence's VE Day Church service
Thursday 8 May, 8pm, St Laurence's Church
On Thursday, 8 May, there will be a commemorative VE Day service at St Laurence's Church, Chorley to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe.
The service will begin at 8pm giving worshippers the opportunity to also attend the Beacon Lighting at the War Memorial in Astley Park, which will begin at 9pm.
Beacon lighting
Thursday 8 May 2025, from 9pm, Astley Park war memorial
Join us for a beacon lighting tribute at the war memorial in Astley Park from 9pm, with the beacon being lit at 9.30pm
The event will include a VE Day Tribute to be read by the Mayor of Chorley, Councillor Gordon France, and music by Rivington and Adlington Brass Band including ‘I vow thee to my country’ that will be played at all beacon lighting events.
Lighting up Rivington Pike
Thursday 8 May 2025, from 9pm
One of Chorley’s iconic landmarks, Rivington Pike, will be illuminated with light projections to mark the occasion.
Chorley in Bloom Garden
To commemorate VE Day, the Chorley in Bloom group have created a fabulous VE Day themed garden in Chorley town centre.
The garden, which is located between ShopMobility and Calico Lounge and will be officially opened on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Thursday 8 May, at 11am
As part of the opening, Chorley in Bloom will be joined by guests including the Mayor of Chorley, Councillor Gordon France and some local school children, and the community is welcome to attend.
Picnic in the Park
Sunday 11 May 2025, 12 noon to 4pm, Astley Park
This year’s popular Picnic in the Park event will be a VE day themed afternoon. From 12noon to 4pm all are welcome to bring a blanket, pick a spot and enjoy a picnic on the lawns in front of Astley Hall, plus lots of wonderful free entertainment and activities:
Fabulous music with 1940's style covers of modern classics, 80's and modern day hits from Sherri and the Speakeasies, The 80's Revival and Miley Cyrus tribute
Stalls from local cadet groups and military regiments inlcuding 64 Medical Squadron, Chorley Air Cadets and RBL Riders Branch
Military themed walkabout acts 'The Tank' and 'Toy Soldiers'
Static Car Rally in partnership with Lancashire Vehicle Club
Circus Skills from Chorley Schools Sports Partnership
Make a flag crafting activity
Vintage dancing from Shincracker Swing
Fairground rides
Face painting
Find our more: checkoutchorley.com/picnicinthepark
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This week, Chorley comes together to mark a momentous occasion — the 80th anniversary of VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, which commemorates the end of World War II in Europe on 8th May 1945. It’s a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who lived through the war, and to reflect on the peace and freedoms we enjoy today.