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Valley Gardens to host VJ Day anniversary event

Thursday, 7 August 2025 10:03

A poster for the VJ Day event at Valley Gardens.

Valley Gardens in Harrogate will mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day) with a commemorative event next week.

The event will be held on Friday 15th August in the Japanese Garden and is set to include a service of remembrance and 1940's-themed entertainment.

It will begin at 10:55am with a formal remembrance service to honour those who served and sacrificed during the Second World War.

Following the service, members of the public are invited to stay for a “picnic in the park” experience, which will feature live performances inspired by the 1940's era.

Organised by Harrogate Town Council, the event encourages visitors to bring their own food and seating for the afternoon picnic.

The anniversary marks eight decades since the official end of the Second World War, when Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, bringing the global conflict to a close.

Volunteers are also being sought to assist with stewarding and general event support.

Those interested in helping out on the day, between approximately 10am and 2:30pm, can contact the council directly via email at admin@harrogatetowncouncil.gov.uk.

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