VJ Day 80: Celebrations happening in and around Luton - including beacon lighting and jazz performance

The 80th anniversary in 2025 commemorates eight decades since that historic moment. Across the UK and beyond, events will honour those who served and sacrificed, including national two-minute silences, wreath-layings, historical displays, music performances, and community gatherings.

This August, Luton and neighbouring communities will join the nation in marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

On Wednesday, August 13, join the Leagrave and Limbury Branch of The Royal British Legion for a commemorative VJ Day 80 celebration featuring the rich sounds of the Luton Brass Band and the vintage voice of Fiona Harrison. The performance starts at 7:30pm, offering guests an immersive evening of wartime classics in honour of this poignant anniversary. Click here for tickets.

On Friday, August 15, people across the country are invited to pause for the two-minute silence at noon, remembering the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Far East.

At the same time, in Barton-le-Clay, wreaths will be laid at the War Memorial on Hexton Road. Anyone who also wants to lay a wreath is invited to do so at the memorial.

The Mayor of Dunstable, Cllr Sally Kimondo, will attend Bedford’s VJ Day commemoration at 11.45am on Friday by the War Memorial.

Toddington Village will hold an evening service on the Green, followed by the lighting of a commemorative beacon.

The weekend continues with a WWII Model Boat Display in Central Square of the Luton Point, on Saturday, August 16, from 11am to 4pm, hosted by the Luton and District Model Boat Club. Highlights include a striking 9ft replica of the Yamato battleship and models of HMS Hood, HMS Rodney, and other wartime vessels, alongside tanks and aircraft.

Over at the Wardown Park Bandstand on August 17, ‘Jazz on a Summer’s Day’ will bring swing and big band flair with Rob Mach & Friends Inc., joined by the Oxford Lindy Hoppers for dance displays.