King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a concert at Horse Guards Parade on 8 May 2025 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. They were joined by several other members of the Royal Family, and some important guests.
The real VIPs were six veterans who were invited to watch the convert alongside The King and Queen. They included Harry Richardson, a 107 year old veteran who served as a bomber during the war. The King chatted happily with Mr Richardson before the performances began.
Among the special guests were several people from London who had been forced to evacuate their home city when the war started. They were back in its heart to mark 80 years since VE Day.
The Prince and Princess of Wales were also there and sat with Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, and his wife, Victoria.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester also attended.
VE Day 80: A Celebration to Remember was hosted by Zoe Ball and featured performances from the cast of Operation Mincemeat and Samantha Barks from the West End, actor Brian Cox re-enacting once of Sir Winston Churchill’s powerful war-time speeches as well as the stars of Strictly Come Dancing.
Queen Camilla appeared visibly moved throughout the concert which came at the end of a week of commemorations for the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
King Charles spoke movingly during the event, reflecting on the sacrifices made on the home front in addition to that made by those serving in the armed forces.
