Southampton will mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day with a series of events on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 August 2025.

The programme recognises the end of the Second World War and the role Southampton played in welcoming home thousands of troops and civilians returning from the Far East.

VJ Day in 1945 signalled the end of the war following Japan’s surrender. For many men and women who had served in the Far East, including prisoners of war and civilian internees, it brought a long-awaited return to peace after years of hardship and captivity.

Southampton played a vital role in that homecoming. In the months that followed the war, more than 22,000 people were repatriated through the city’s port. A plaque in Town Quay Park marks that moment and serves as a reminder that, for those who survived, the struggle did not end when they stepped ashore.

This year’s 80th anniversary is a chance to reflect, to listen and to ensure those stories are not forgotten.

Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: “Southampton’s role in VJ Day and the months that followed is a powerful testament to our city’s resilience, compassion and commitment to those who served and suffered during the Second World War. As we mark the 80th anniversary, it is important we honour the sacrifices made, remember the stories of those who returned home, and ensure their legacy is never forgotten. These commemorations offer our community a chance to come together in reflection, gratitude and remembrance.”

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “It is an honour for Cunard to welcome this remarkable group of veterans and their families on board as part of Southampton’s commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. We are immensely proud of our maritime heritage and of the opportunity to help recognise the extraordinary service and sacrifice of those who gave so much. Hosting this commemorative event in our hometown of Southampton, aboard Queen Mary 2 and beneath a poignant Lancaster flypast, makes the occasion especially meaningful.”

Claire Whitaker CBE, Chief Executive of Southampton Forward, said: "Eighty years on, these commemorations remind us how deeply Southampton is shaped by its history of welcome and resilience. Honouring those who returned through our port keeps their stories alive and connects our community to its past in a meaningful way."

Archie Parsons from the Royal British Legion added: “Days like these bring our communities together in ways that aren’t much different to 80 years ago. The 80^th anniversary of VJ Day reminds us of our resilience and willing to re-build, whilst remembering lives lost and families affected. I hope to see as many people as possible at the commemorative events planned. This is also a time to celebrate and we plan on doing that on Saturday 16 August.”

Friday 15 August

9:00am: Flag-raising ceremony and proclamation outside the Civic Centre
10:30am: Wreath laying at the Repatriation Memorial, Town Quay Park
11:00am: Guided walking tour led by See Southampton. The 90-minute tour starts in Bugle Street and finishes at the Far East Prisoners of War plaque in Town Quay Park. 

At lunchtime, invited guests including veterans and families of those who served in the Far East will board Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 for a commemorative lunch hosted by the Lord Mayor of Southampton, who also serves as Admiral of the Port. The ship will be docked in the city on the exact anniversary, reflecting the historic role of her wartime namesake, RMS Queen Mary.

In August 1945, the original Queen Mary was in port and joined other ships in sounding her whistle to mark the end of the war. That same whistle is now fitted to Queen Mary 2 and is expected to sound again just after the national two minutes’ silence at 12 noon, along with other ships in port. It will be a poignant moment, echoing what took place in Southampton 80 years ago.

The lunch will bring together relatives and descendants of those who served in the Far East. It will be a space to share stories and family artefacts, and to remember those who returned to Southampton after the war.

12:50pm: RAF Lancaster flypast over Queen Mary 2, subject to weather and aircraft availability
8:30pm: Beacon lighting ceremony at Holyrood Church. The church, badly damaged during the Blitz, now stands as a memorial to the Merchant Navy and provides a fitting setting for this act of remembrance

Evening: The front of the O2 Guildhall will be illuminated in red, white and blue to mark the occasion

Saturday 16 August

Southampton City Council is supporting the Royal British Legion in delivering a day of community-focused commemorations.

10:30am: Veterans form up in Watts Park ahead of a short parade to the Cenotaph, led by Pipes and Drums

11:00am: Commemorative service and wreath laying at the Cenotaph

11:30am (approx.): Veterans’ march through East Park into Palmerston Park

12:00–2:00pm: Bring your own food to the Picnic in the Park in Palmerston Park, with live music, military and heritage displays, and refreshments

Other Activities

SeaCity Museum is hosting a free display exploring Southampton’s role in the Second World War and the significance of both VE Day and VJ Day. Located in the museum café, the display includes wartime photographs, objects and models, including a matchstick model of the Queen Mary

Historic photographs from Southampton’s archives are being shown on digital screens in public spaces across the city

Above Bar Street features Union Flags and specially designed anniversary banners, installed with support from GO! Southampton

For full details and updates, visit: www.visitsouthampton.co.uk/ve-day-80