Victory Day In France
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Where is Victory Day in France celebrated?
It's celebrated in France and also all across Europe.
Who is Victory Day in France celebrated by?
All the citizens of France celebrate this day.
When did Victory Day in France first start?
Victory Day in France was first observed on May 8, 1945.
Who started Victory Day in France?
The head of the interim government, Charles de Gaulle, started this day.
History And Timeline
May 8, 1945, was an exuberant day in France. But it took some time to recognize this day as a national holiday after a series of protests from politicians and the public.
The government also put a hold on celebrating this day as there were too many public holidays in May. Finally, in 1981, this day got its official public holiday recognition. Let's know more about the events that led to the recognition of this day.
Second Sunday Of May
The Government specified a law citing WWII victory day to be celebrated on the second Sunday of May.
1946Veterans Protest
Many veterans protested the decision of celebrating victory day on the second Sunday of May and decided to commemorate the day on May 8.
1959No Commemoration WWII End
The French President decided there shall be no national commemoration of the end of World War, but many veterans protested and continued to celebrate locally on May 8.
1975Official National Holiday
On October 2, 1981, President Mitterand reinstated that commemoration day should be declared a bank holiday. After much public debate, May 8 became an official national holiday in 1982.
1981Commemoration Amid Pandemic
French President Emmanuel Macron commemorated the 75th anniversary of the second world war ending amid a pandemic. However, ceremonies were scaled down because of lockdown measures.
2020Traditions And Customs
This day marks a patriotic holiday all across Europe. In Paris, the French President lays a wreath at the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs-Elysees at the Unknown Soldier's tomb in the presence of veterans and the military.
Mayors, in their communes, also lay a wreath on war memorials. Regional authorities organize ceremonies in their communities. Fanfare, military parades, and religious ceremonies take place throughout the country to celebrate the end of World War II.
Ways To Observe Or Celebrate Victory Day In France
Attend a parade or a church service in Paris or anywhere in France on May 8 to celebrate Victory Day France. Display the French flag at homes or public buildings and sing patriotic songs.
Students are encouraged to read the history of World War II and Nazi oppression in France. Families bring flowers to war memorials.
In various cities, especially in Reims city, people enjoy the evening with wine and food. We can also take some time to remember the people who lost their lives during the war, including the armed forces.
Facts And Stats
Flags of all European nations are displayed in some ceremonies emphasizing the lasting peace and unity since World War II.
A giant French flag is adorned in the Arc de Triomphe in Paris under its arches that often stays there until Bastille Day.
Germany signed its surrender to Allied forces in Reims city on May 7, 1945.
Does France celebrate Victory Day?
Yes, France celebrates Victory day on May 8 every year.
Why do the French celebrate Victory in Europe Day?
Victory Day France marked the end of World War II in Europe when the allied forces accepted Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces.
What are some reasons for celebrating Victory Day in France?
It marks the end of a six-year war that had cost the lives of millions; destroying homes and families. It also marks the end of Adolf Hitler's Third Reich.
How do families celebrate Victory Day in France?
Families attend parades, church services, and ceremonies in their communities to mark this day of celebration and remembrance.
What does the government say about Victory Day in France?
The government said that the war shaped the construction of a United Europe and that Europe would not fight any more wars and focus on France-Germany reconciliation.
When Is This Day Celebrated
- Thursday, May 07, 2020
- Friday, May 07, 2021
- Saturday, May 07, 2022
- Sunday, May 07, 2023
- Tuesday, May 07, 2024
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Master of Business Administration
Deepthi ReddyMaster of Business Administration
With an MBA under her belt, Deepthi has discovered her true calling in content writing. Her writing repertoire is diverse, covering travel, movies, pet care, parenting, animals and birds, and more. Her joy of learning and creating has helped her craft well-written and engaging articles. When she isn't writing, Deepthi enjoys exploring new cultures, trying different foods, and spending quality time with her two children aged 7 and 12.
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