Buckingham Palace releases full schedule ahead of 80th anniversary commemorations
King Charles has issued a significant announcement ahead of a long-anticipated royal reunion, outlining the royal family’s role in national commemorations for VE Day 2025.
In a statement released early Monday, Buckingham Palace confirmed that the King and Queen Camilla will be joined by senior members of the royal family—including Prince William and Catherine—for a series of events marking 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
“VE DAY 2025,” the Palace message began, “Honouring 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.”
The announcement detailed that the King and Queen, alongside key royals, will lead the commemorative programme. The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester have already taken part in a related ceremony marking the Liberation of Denmark.
As official events begin on Monday, the royal family will be joined by Prime Minister Keir Starmer to observe a military procession and flypast. Later, the King and Queen will host a Tea Party at Buckingham Palace, paying tribute to surviving veterans of the conflict.
On Tuesday, Queen Camilla is expected to visit the Tower of London before joining the King for a Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. That evening, the royal family will attend a VE Day concert at Horse Guards Parade.
The commemorations will conclude on Saturday when Princess Anne’s husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, will mark the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Guernsey and Sark in the Channel Islands.
This royal calendar update arrives amid renewed attention on the Duke of Sussex, following his emotional reaction to a court ruling over UK security arrangements. A Palace aide said the King is “looking forward” to the VE Day events and expressed hope that “nothing will detract or distract” from the solemnity of the occasion.
Last year, Harry issued a public message on Veterans Day, and royal watchers speculate he may do the same for VE Day—potentially reigniting tensions within the family.
