Clifford’s Tower and the city walls will glow red, white and blue to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day tomorrow (Friday).
City of York Council has arranged the colourful lightshow to celebrate 75 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
And council and community leaders in York and its twin city, Münster in Germany, have created a joint video “celebrating friendship, peace and standing shoulder to shoulder during the current crisis”.
On VE Day in 1945 there was a great sense of freedom, with dancing in the streets.
This year, however, we must stay at home to celebrate.
Council leader Keith Aspden said: “Whilst this year we may be commemorating differently, York recognises the importance of VE Day 75 and will commemorate by lighting up Clifford’s Tower and the bar walls red, white and blue, as well as observing a two minute silence and moment of reflection.
“VE Day is not only an opportunity to say thank you for 75 years of peace in Europe, but also a message of strength and survival for residents, business and communities, who have come together once again, to support one another through this current global crisis.”
Lord Mayor of York Janet Looker said: “Whilst we may be an island, our history is bound with our European neighbours.
“During this ongoing period of isolating and distancing, I’m extremely pleased that York has the opportunity to join with our twin cities of Münster and Dijon, to honour and commemorate VE Day 75, and those who gave their lives during the war.
“It also gives us a chance to acknowledge the 75 years of peace with our European neighbours as a positive achievement.”
Find out more on the council’s VE Day 75 page.